Audi launches the Q4 e-tron and Sportback e-tron in 2021 to further the EV offensive that kicked off back in 2018 with the fantastic e-tron and aims to exceed approximately 20 models by 2025. Audi expects electrified vehicles to account for 40%of its sales by 2025. Due to arrive in Ireland by June the Audi Q4 e-tron will be priced around €41,465 including grants, VRT and delivery.
The Q4 e-tron and Q4 Sportback e-tron are very similar cars with slightly different dimensions. The new 181-in (460-cm)-long Sportback gains an indiscernible centimeter (0.4 in) of length while losing slightly in height but riding on the same 109-in (277-cm) wheelbase. The Sportback’s arched roofline uses fastback-style, spun into a taut rear with a rear spoiler, adding a sportier presence.
Buyers looking to jump into the Audi Q4 e-tron will however have to ask themselves, crossover or crossover-coupe? The Q4 e-tron achieves a drag coefficient of 0.28, and the Sportback claims a lower figure of just 0.26. Both models will be giving buyers two distinct options.
Inside Audi capitalises on the space without a transmission tunnel to create an interior meant to punch above its weight.
Combined with clever interior packaging made possible by the platform, Audi claims that this extra space rivals that of an SUV the size of the Q5. Plenty of new storage spaces have been incorporated too, including new bottle holders in the front doors.
Save for a change in colours, the front cabin follows the design of the original Q4 e-tron concept with its angled-in 12.3″ central infotainment screen and digital cockpit. A large-format head-up display adds extra information and augmented reality capability, while steering wheel touch panels and a hovering climate control pad to the right add a layer of physical control.
Under normal driving conditions, the e-tron quattro system relies on the 201-hp rear motor for efficient rear-biased power. When the driver needs more, or when the vehicle predicts traction loss, the system spools up the 101-hp asynchronous front motor for more torque.
Both Q4’s are based on VW’s MEB modular electrification platform and carry 82 kWh of battery power mounted low between the axles. In ranging-topping quattro all-wheel drive form, this battery runs the dual motors for up to an estimated 450 km (WLTP). Buyers who drop the front motor in favor of rear-wheel drive can expect around 500 kms. The Sportback’s low-slung looks won’t earn it any actual increased acceleration, as both Q4 quattro e-tron variants bring the same 6.3-second 0-100 km/h and 180-km/h top speed.