Overview
Audi is preparing the Q4 e-tron compact crossover for the luxury-EV spotlight when it launches in early 2021. Adding to the growing lineup of all-electric e-tron models, the Q4 will accompany the e-tron SUV and the future e-tron GT sedan when it eventually goes on sale. It’ll be the first Audi to use Volkswagen’s MEB modular electric vehicle platform. The Q4 e-Tron will go up against other small luxury electric SUVs such as the Tesla Model Y and the Volvo XC40 Recharge when it goes on sale in 2021. It’ll offer an 82.0-kWh battery with a range of up to 280 miles. Unlike the larger e-tron SUV, this smaller model will seat only four.
What’s New for 2021?
The fourth EV from Audi, the Q4 e-tron will go into production at the end of 2020, unless production is pushed back, as it has been for numerous new models, due to the global pandemic. Audi claims it’ll arrive at a base price of $ 45,000.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
- Premium: $ 45,000
- Premium Plus: $ 50,000 (est.)
- Prestige: $ 55,000 (est.)
While pricing beyond the base model has not been announced, based on other vehicles in the current Audi lineup we’re anticipating that the Prestige trim—which should come standard with heated massaging seats, a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist— will be the one to buy even with the higher tag. A Cold Weather package for those that have to deal with winter weather will be a worthwhile option.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
With an electric motor powering each axle, the all-wheel drive Q4 e-tron makes a stout 300 horsepower. The result is a claimed zero-to-60-time of 6.3 seconds. That’s not as quick as the gasoline-powered Audi Q5 SUV, but it’s still brisk compared with other compact luxury crossovers. An adaptive suspension should keep the ride smooth, but since the Q4 e-tron is still a concept car, we haven’t had the chance to drive it to evaluate its ride and handling.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
The Q4 e-tron’s 82.0-kWh battery pack has a target range of 280 miles. This is pre-EPA testing so expect that number to change once the crossover goes on sale. The vehicle supports charging up to 125-kW and, according to Audi, the state-of-charge can hit 80 percent in about 30 minutes.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA hasn’t released any estimates for the Q4 e-tron’s fuel economy, but we expect it to be competitive with other electric SUVs such as the Jaguar I-Pace and the Tesla Model X. Once we get a Q4 e-tron to our office for testing, we’ll complete our 200-mile highway fuel economy route and update this story with results.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The interior is a technological showcase of all of Audi’s latest and greatest gadgets. A digital gauge display is standard, and a large infotainment touchscreen is angled toward the driver for easier access to its various menus and features. The Q4 e-tron concept is strictly a four-seater, with front and rear bucket seats covered in faux-suede upholstery with metal e-tron–branded detailing under the headrests. Interior space should be about the same as the gas-powered Q5, which is plenty roomy for four adults and their cargo.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Q4 e-tron will have the latest version of Audi’s MMI system. We expect that it will have two displays in the center. The upper screen will have the usual navigation, media controls, and smartphone connections; the display situated below will house climate controls, quick access to frequently used features, and a writing tablet that drivers can use to scribble out letters and numbers instead of using an onscreen keyboard. We expect a Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless charging for compatible smartphones.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
It’s too soon for crash test ratings from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). But we expect the Q4 e-tron to have driver-assistance technology available like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and maybe even a self-parking mode like the e-tron SUV. Key safety features are likely to include:
- Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
We expect the Audi Q4 e-tron to have the same unremarkable limited and powertrain warranty as the larger e-tron SUV. Audi’s complimentary maintenance is less generous than what BMW, Jaguar, and Volvo offer, but the e-tron’s electrical components are covered for an extended period of time.
- Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Electric components are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for 1 year or 10,000 miles
