Audi Q4 e-tron 40 review

Zap-Map verdict: “With strong performances across the board, the Audi Q4 e-tron doesn’t lead in any area, but there are no real weaknesses either. An ideal ‘switch to EV’ model.”

Audi Q4 e-tron 40: Range & charging

There are various battery and power options for the Q4 e-tron range, but the 40 model tested features an 82 kWh (77 kWh net) battery, which can be ultra-rapid charged at up to 125 kW DC or up to 11 kW AC.

There are three configurations available, doubled when you factor in the Sportback styled model as well:

• • ● Audi Q4 e-tron 35 – 125 kW – 55 kWh – 208 miles
  • ● Audi Q4 e-tron 40 – 150 kW – 82 kWh – 316 miles
  • ● Audi Q4 e-tron 50 quattro – 220 kW – 82 kWh – 295 miles

Range

The official WLTP driving range for the Audi Q4 e-tron 40 is 316 miles on a charge – the longest distance achievable in the Q4 e-tron line-up. In real-world conditions, the range held up fairly well, even returning around 260 miles on a charge over motorway and fast roads on lengthy trips. The average for my week with the car ended up at around 280 miles on a charge, but greater focus on slower routes will extend that further.

Braking

Audi offers an automatic mode to its brake energy recuperation, or you can take manual control with the use of paddles behind the steering wheel. Occasional use of the paddles is possible in auto mode, but the car will switch back to doing its own thing unless you head into the menus to set it to manual.

Three levels of brake energy recuperation range from practically coasting to strong braking, though full ‘one-pedal driving’ is not possible. It’s a pretty useful set-up nonetheless, and one that fits in with other Audi and VW Group EVs. Personally I’d prefer an added level to the regen setting for stronger braking still.

Charging

Charging is available at up to 125 kW DC for the larger battery models in the Q4 e-tron range, good to add around 80 miles in 10 minutes, or a 5-80% top-up in a little over half an hour. Otherwise, the Audi will charge at up to 11 kW on AC units, all through a CCS inlet.

The Audi Q4 e-tron on the road

As the long-range champion in the Q4 e-tron range, this 40 model uses a 150 kW electric motor powering the rear wheels – sitting in the middle of the power options. It’s nippy enough, but you could hardly say fast. However, quick progress can be made when required, and the Q4 e-tron 40 will deal with just about anything you can throw at it. This is a sensible, family-focused EV, not a shove-you-into-your-seat EV.

What’s the Audi Q4 e-tron like to drive?

In terms of handling, the Audi feels just like an Audi (funny that, I know). That is to say it’s neutral, not particularly focused on dynamism or comfort, but offering a useful set-up for many buyers. There are more engaging EVs in this price bracket to drive, just as there are more relaxing ones. But the Q4 e-tron takes the traditional VW Golf approach – be good at everything, everywhere – and succeeds.

Audi Q4 e-tron: Comfort & Practicality

For what is a fairly compact SUV by Audi standards, the Q4 e-tron has loads of space inside, based as it is on the same platform as the VW ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq iV. Head and leg room are very good, and it is only the boot that ‘suffers’. With a battery and electric motor to store about the place, the boot isn’t the largest in its class, but it’s hardly compact either. It will easily deal with day-to-day family life.

Design and functionality

It is difficult for three different models from one manufacturing group to differentiate themselves from each other, but one key success area is the cabin. Each of the Audi, VW, and Skoda go about things different ways, and it means the system works. Audi’s manages to keep the Q4 e-tron as a premium prospect in the market, and is excellent in general. The touchscreen system is shared with VW et al, and can be slow to respond on occasion, but the rest of the controls and materials are excellent throughout.

Audi Q4 e-tron: Tech & Specifications

There are five core trims to the Q4 e-tron range, but driven was the Sport specification. Fitted as standard are:


 

1. 19-inch alloy wheels
2. LED headlights
3. heated front sports seats
4. Keyless go
5. Air conditioning
6. Rear parking sensors
7. digital instrument panel
8. 10.1-inch multimedia system

I have to admit that I liked the Audi Q4 e-tron 40 more than I thought I would. Not that I was expecting a negative impression, but it shone through as being a truly excellent all-rounder. The driving range, handling, performance, styling, and practicality are all good – nothing ground-breaking, but to a high level all the same. A vehicle that would comfortably replace a petrol or diesel model in a one-car household with few (if any) compromises.

And how much is the road tax on the Audi Q4 e-tron? Use our Car Tax Calculator to find out.

All information above correct at time of publication. Official economy figures, pricing, and tax rates supplied by the manufacturer. Cost to charge based on 0-100% charge at home on a tariff of 16 p/kWh.