Audi e-tron seen ahead of 2023 refresh

• Expected 2023
• Front and rear design tweaks
• Both Sportback and SUV will receive updates

The Audi e-tron SUV and stylish e-tron Sportback version have been seen testing a package of upgrades ahead of a late 2022 or early 2023 facelift. The e-tron has been on sale since 2019 and rivals the Mercedes EQC and Jaguar I-Pace. Its original release marked the firm’s future intent, being the first all-electric car released by the brand.

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Changes are expected to be minor, with a refresh to its styling aimed at increasing aerodynamics for better efficiency, as well as looking good. The current e-tron isn’t class leading when it comes to its driving range, so Audi will likely attempt to squeeze a more miles from the battery pack, or upgrade its existing powertrain, taking lessons learnt from newer EV models to maximise its potential.

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At the front, both the SUV and Sportback have retained a wide grille, but this now appears to be flanked by additional vents at the edge of the bumper. There is camouflage placed over the lower portion of the sides of the vehicle, suggesting Audi may be trying to better channel air around the sides of the SUV as a way of increasing efficiency. The headlights have the same sharp edges as before, however the cuts in the camouflage wrap appear to show a slightly longer bottom of the lens.

One area that can’t be mistaken is the door mirrors, because the prototype Sportback can be seen with traditional units, while the SUV has slim cameras that are likely to be a drag-reducing option. Currently the camera is only standard on the Vorsprung trim level.

At the rear, additional camouflage suggests a new light cluster design is also to be expected, along with mild styling tweaks to the rear bumper.

We expect the new e-tron models to arrive in showrooms in early 2023 with a small price increase over the existing generation, which starts from £62,785.

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