Overview: 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron / Q4 e-tron Sportback
Audi has expanded its e-tron electric vehicle sub-brand with the addition of the 2023 Q4 e-tron and the Q4 e-tron Sportback. These new models offer more affordable starting prices and share many features with the popular Q5 gasoline-powered crossover. Although base models come with rear-wheel drive and 201 horsepower, dual-motor, all-wheel drive models offer a powerful 295-horsepower performance. Both versions have a 77.0-kWh battery pack, providing the Q4 e-tron with a range of up to 265 miles per charge. This range is better than the Volvo C40 Recharge and XC40 Recharge models but not as extensive as the Tesla Model Y in this price range.
Price and Variants: 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron / Q4 e-tron Sportback
For the 2023 model year, Audi is introducing the Q4 e-tron with rear-wheel drive 40 models, which are more affordable than the all-wheel drive 50 models. These models feature a single, rear-mounted electric motor that produces 201 horsepower and are equipped with the same 77.0-kWh battery pack as the 50 models. However, the 40 models offer a longer range of 265 miles per charge compared to 236 miles for the 50 models.
The entry-level 40 powertrain is only available on base Premium and mid-range Premium Plus trims, and not offered on the Sportback model. The Premium Plus trim now includes standard navigation and a larger 11.6-inch infotainment display, replacing the previous 10.1-inch display. Additionally, all models equipped with the more powerful 50 powertrain come with the S Line appearance package, featuring unique wheels, exterior brightwork, and badging.
For those considering the Q4 e-tron, Audi recommends the Premium Plus trim level, which includes a power-operated liftgate, a four-way power-adjustable passenger seat, SiriusXM satellite radio, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and keyless entry. Buyers can choose between the regular squareback or the Sportback body style, depending on their preference.
If power is a priority, the all-wheel drive 50 powertrain delivers 94 more horsepower than the standard 40 setup. However, if range is more important, the base propulsion system with the 40 model may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to individual needs and preferences.
| Model |
Price |
| Premium 40 |
$50,995 |
| Premium 50 |
$54,995 |
| Premium Plus 40 |
$57,195 |
| Sportback Premium 50 |
$59,395 |
| Premium Plus 50 |
$61,595 |
| Prestige 50 |
$64,095 |
| Sportback Premium Plus 50 |
$65,595 |
| Sportback Prestige 50 |
$67,095 |
Power and Performance: 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron / Q4 e-tron Sportback
The Q4 e-tron 40 has a single electric motor with a power output of 201 horsepower that drives the rear wheels. Although we have not tested this particular setup, it did not impress us in the mechanically similar Volkswagen ID.4. On the other hand, the Q4 e-tron 50 and Q4 e-tron Sportback 50 models have an electric motor that powers each axle, resulting in all-wheel drive and a power output of 295 horsepower. Audi claims that these models can go from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, which is faster than the Q4 e-tron 40's estimated time of 7.9 seconds. However, it is still slower than the gas-powered Audi Q5 SUV. In city driving, the Q4 e-tron 50's powertrain is more than sufficient, although it is not as lively as competitors such as the Model Y and XC40. At higher speeds, such as when passing on the highway, the powertrain is less responsive. In our testing, the Q4 e-tron 50 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. The Q4 e-tron's ride is smooth, and it has a tight turning radius, making it easy to maneuver. However, it feels heavy in corners and its steering feedback is not very natural, so we wouldn't describe it as fun to drive.
Range, Charging and Battery: 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron / Q4 e-tron Sportback
The Q4 e-tron has different battery options, with the 77.0-kWh battery pack providing a range of 265 miles per charge when combined with the standard single-motor 40 powertrain. However, the all-wheel drive 50 powertrain is less efficient, offering an estimated range of 236 miles for the squareback model and 242 miles for the Sportback. During a highway test, the Q4 e-tron 50 achieved a range of 190 miles.
All Q4 e-tron models support fast charging at up to 150-kW, which allows them to charge from 5 to 80 percent in just 36 minutes. Nonetheless, it's worth noting that the Genesis GV60 is quicker, as it can reach the same charge level in just 18 minutes. During a test of the Q4 e-tron 50, the vehicle was charged from 10 to 90 percent in 44 minutes, with an average DC Fast-Charge rate of 87 kW.
Interior: 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron / Q4 e-tron Sportback
Similar to other Audi cars, the Q4 e-tron's interior boasts of Audi's newest and most advanced technology, including a squared-off steering wheel equipped with touch-sensitive controls. In contrast to the concept version, which only accommodated four passengers, the production model offers seating for up to five individuals. The passenger space in the Q4 e-tron is comparable to that of the gas-powered Q5, but it has a slightly smaller cargo capacity. The cabin's comfort and style, combined with its state-of-the-art technology, make it an impressive showcase of Audi's commitment to excellence.
Infotainment and Connectivity: 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron / Q4 e-tron Sportback
The Q4 e-tron comes equipped with Audi's most recent MMI system, providing both infotainment and connectivity features. The car boasts a standard 10.3-inch digital gauge display and an 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen that is positioned at an optimal angle for easy access to its different menus and features. Additionally, Audi offers an optional head-up display that comes with an augmented reality feature, which can project important information such as navigation directions or driver assistance warnings directly onto the driver's line of sight.
Safety and Warranty: 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron / Q4 e-tron Sportback
The Q4 e-tron models are equipped with a range of advanced driver-assistance technologies to ensure safety on the road. These include features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking. To learn more about the Q4 e-tron's safety performance, you can visit the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
In terms of safety features, the Q4 e-tron offers standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, as well as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control is also available as an option.
The Q4 e-tron comes with a warranty that covers both limited and powertrain issues, the same as the larger e-tron SUV. The limited warranty is valid for four years or 50,000 miles, while the powertrain warranty lasts the same amount of time and distance. Electric components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles. However, the Q4 e-tron does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance.
