Are the 2023 Audi Q4 e-Tron and Q4 Sportback e-Tron Good Electric SUVs? 5 Things We Like, 5 We Don’t
Are the 2023 Audi Q4 e-Tron and Q4 Sportback e-Tron Good Electric SUVs? 5 Things We Like, 5 We Don’t With the launch of the e-Tron family of electric cars, Audi has taken a somewhat different approach to electric vehicles than some other manufacturers. Instead of utilizing unique design features and quirky controls commonly used in electric cars, the 2023 Audi Q4 e-Tron and sleek compact SUV Q4 Sportback e-Tron is refreshingly natural and feels, feels and drives like conventional vehicles that happen to be electric rather than electric. of petrochemicals.
Are the 2023 Audi Q4 e-Tron and Q4 Sportback e-Tron Good Electric SUVs? 5 Things We Like, 5 We Don’t
The things we love
Are the 2023 Audi Q4 e-Tron and Q4 Sportback e-Tron Good Electric SUVs? 5 Things We Like, 5 We Don’t
1. Smooth power delivery
Like many electric vehicles, power delivery is instant and smooth, although neither version of the Q4 offers class-leading power. The 295-horsepower twin-engine version goes from 0-60 mph in a non-exhaustive 5.8 seconds according to Audi, but most of that attraction can be felt at low speeds around town; At higher speeds, the Q4 e-Tron has less reserve for scrolling.
2. Feel the brakes
Drivers unfamiliar with electric vehicles will appreciate the Q4 e-Tron’s brake pedal feel with regenerative braking off, which is as linear and progressive as a good set of brakes in a conventional car. Those interested in maximizing range can choose from three levels of regenerative braking, but even the most extreme isn’t as aggressive as with some electric vehicles.
3. Riding and handling
While not as sporty to drive as some other electric cars (or even other Audis), the Q4 e-Tron models strike a decent balance between ride comfort and responsive handling. The steering is weighted well with a decent feel, and the suspension is absorbent if on the hard side, much like competing electric cars like the Volvo XC40 and C40 Recharges and the Tesla Model Y. Some road imperfections can be felt in the cabin, but they’re nothing that worrisome or dismissive.
4. Make your own at home
The traditional design and familiar controls will help first-time electric vehicle buyers feel right at home, with physical knobs and buttons for climate and audio functions. We also like the Audi MMI infotainment system, which is used throughout the range and is as intuitive and easy to use on e-Tron models as we’ve tried with other Audis.
5. Gang room
The cabin is surprisingly spacious front and rear, with a lowered speed limiter adding an airy, open feel at the front. At the rear, the Q4 e-Tron feels roomy enough to be a larger car, although the Sportback’s lower roofline intrudes into headroom for taller passengers. If you’re hanging out with a tall, skinny crowd, the regular Q4 e-Tron is a better bet.
Are the 2023 Audi Q4 e-Tron and Q4 Sportback e-Tron Good Electric SUVs? 5 Things We Like, 5 We Don’t
1. Not driving with one pedal
Even when set to the highest braking level of three, the Q4 e-Trons won’t come to a complete stop without the driver applying the brakes. This makes real one-pedal driving impossible, which is something many electric vehicle owners prefer for increased range.
2. Limited back view
We don’t have any complaints about the front sight despite the prominent A-pillars, but it’s a different story at the rear, especially with the more aggressively styled Sportback. Rear headrests obscure much of the rear window, and the view on Sportback models is further restricted by a rear spoiler that divides and blocks part of the rear window.
3. Steering wheel controls
Touch-sensitive steering wheel controls for audio functions and other things aren’t a great idea because they are too easy to rub off during normal driving; The resulting unintended consequences can be annoying at best, especially during a good song. Fortunately, the steering wheel buttons on e-Tron models provide some tactile feedback and must be pressed to respond. However, they can be difficult to read in direct sunlight, and we always prefer controls that are less likely to get pushed by accident.
4. Plastic predominates
There’s a fair amount of hard plastic in the cabin, and while most of it is on low surfaces, it still looks out of place in a car that could easily cost more than $60,000. This is especially noticeable in vehicles with a light interior color; Black does a better job of hiding it.
5. How disappointing it is
With a maximum range of 242 miles for all-wheel drive variants and 265 miles with rear-wheel drive, no version of the Q4 e-Tron can deliver class-leading capability on the road. While these numbers are similar to range estimates for competition from Volvo and Genesis’ compact electric SUVs, these numbers follow the range of the Tesla Model Y and some versions of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6. We recorded a consumption of about 3 miles per kWh, which is indicative of published range estimates.
