Audi Q4 e-tron SUV review

The Audi Q4 e-tron isn't just another new SUV for the brand; it's set to become its most popular electric vehicle. In fact, some predictions suggest it will become Audi's best-selling model behind the A3 hatchback, as more buyers make the switch to electric.

It's a sister car to the Volkswagen ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq iV, sharing much of their technology under the skin. The Q4 e-tron also needs to compete with the Polestar 2, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Mercedes EQA, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6 and Tesla Model Y. 

Several versions of the Q4 e-tron are available, so buyers can choose from the Q4 35 e-tron with 168bhp and a 52kWh battery, or the Q4 40 e-tron with 201bhp and a 77kWh battery, both of which are rear-wheel drive. A range-topping Q4 50 e-tron gets the same 77kWh battery but an extra motor for the front wheels increases power to 295bhp and gives the car all-wheel drive. 

There’s also a choice of two body styles, with a coupe-styled Sportback version lining up next to the regular SUV version. The Sportback is slightly less practical and a bit more expensive to buy, but is positioned as a slightly more sporty and stylish alternative. All versions of the Q4 e-tron share the same electric powertrains and trim levels.

Driving range spans from 193 miles to 317 miles depending on the battery fitted and trim level, and we saw a predicted range of around 270 miles in the Q4 40 e-tron we tested. Rapid public charging from 5-80% takes around half an hour across the range, at speeds of between 100kW and 125kW. Cars with the 77kWh battery built from March 2022 can now charge at 135kW; older cars may get a software update to facilitate this later on.

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As you'd expect for an Audi, its interior is a highlight, with a higher quality of finish and materials than most rivals, although this is reflected in the car’s price compared to the ID.4 and Enyaq iV. We also like Audi's MMI infotainment setup, which retains physical switches for the climate control, instead of the fiddly touch-sensitive sliders. Trim levels include Sport, S Line, Edition 1 and Vorsprung, with the first two offering all most buyers will likely need. Edition 1 adds black exterior trim, Matrix LED headlights and a new hexagonal steering wheel, while the fully loaded Vorsprung gets a panoramic sunroof, Nappa leather upholstery and a Sonos sound system.

New for 2022 is a bigger 11.6-inch touchscreen - the biggest Audi has ever fitted to its cars - that also includes Amazon Alexa compatibility.

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The electric Audi's 'skateboard' electric platform has allowed designers to make it more practical than you might expect. A flat floor boosts interior space, especially for rear passengers, and its boot measures 520 litres behind the rear seats. There are also neat storage areas dotted around for smaller items, along with a hidden area for the charging cable under the boot floor. A five-star Euro NCAP safety rating will also be appealing for buyers.