Audi Q4 e-tron: base model revived
Audi is again offering the two Q4 e-tron models with a small battery and 125 kW motor for less money. The software is being upgraded for all of them.
The new basic model offers less power and range than the other models, but also costs considerably less.
(Image: Audi)
When the Q4 e-tron was launched, there was already an entry-level model with a 52-kWh battery, but after a good year and a half it was dropped from the range. Audi is now making a new attempt to make an e-SUV with a comparatively small battery appealing to potential buyers. It will be offered as an SUV and an SUV coupé.
The drivetrain is familiar from other models. The rear engine delivers 125 kW and offers a maximum torque of 310 Nm. Audi itself speaks of superior driving performance. However, with a standard sprint time of nine seconds and a top speed of 160 km/h, the base model lags noticeably behind the other Q4 models. However, this also applies to the price. The SUV costs at least 45,600 euros, the coupé model Q4 e-tron Sportback 2000 euros more. For orientation: If you want the next level in the Q4 with 210 kW engine power and 77 kWh in the battery, you will have to pay at least 52,950 euros.
Battery and charging
There are also compromises to be made in terms of energy storage. The battery has a gross capacity of 55 kWh and a net capacity of 52 kW. The maximum charging power is 145 kW - this is slightly more than a BMW iX1 (test) currently offers and 30 kW less than what Audi specifies for the models with the large battery. Under ideal conditions, the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in 25 minutes. Last year, Volkswagen retrofitted preconditioning of the battery cells in various electric cars on this basis. Audi has not commented on this, but we assume that this is also the case here. This would allow the maximum charging capacity to be used in winter too. The alternating current remains at 11 kW. The option of 22 kW will probably only be available in the successor. The WLTP range for the SUV is specified as 315 to 355 km, while the Coupé achieves 10 km more in the cycle.
(Image: Audi)
App store retrofitted
All Q4 models are currently receiving a software update that retrofits the "Audi Application Store" in the infotainment system. This allows the user to install a selection of apps in the car. The integration of ChatGPT is also new in this Volkswagen. Audi also wants to have improved the charge planner. Filters can be used to define the desired battery charge level for the destination or to prioritize charging stations from certain providers.
(mfz)