What is it?
Audi is big into the Sportback layout these days. Across nearly all of its SUVs there’s a sleeker, more aerodynamically-efficient version available and things are just the same with the new Q4 e-tron. As Audi’s latest electric vehicle it’s packed with technology, but this Sportback version brings even sleeker looks to the table.
So it takes the regular Q4 e-tron setup and adds in a more raked roofline for an even more eye-catching design. Let’s see what else it has to offer.
What’s new?
So obviously the biggest change here is that sleek new design, but elsewhere we’ve got the same clever powertrain and high-tech interior as with the regular Q4. It sits on the same MEB platform as cars like the Skoda Enyaq iV and Volkswagen ID.4, bringing a cleverly packaged interior that makes the most of the space available.
Up front, there are plenty of high-end materials and a sharp infotainment system, while an optional square-style steering wheel gives the cabin a futuristic feel.
What’s under the bonnet?
The Q4 e-tron Sportback uses a fully electric powertrain, available with either a 52kW or 77kWh battery with the largest of the two bringing a range of up to 320 miles. In fact, you get slightly more range from the Sportback over the regular Q4, courtesy of its more aerodynamic shape.
A recent update also upgraded the charging speed of the larger-battery models, with this 135kW charging speed enabling a five to 80 per cent charge taking just 29 minutes.
What’s it like to drive?
The Q4 e-tron Sportback gives the kind of quiet, refined progression that you can only get from electric vehicles. There’s that instant availability of torque that helps to give this Q4 a healthy amount of zip away from the line and it’s this that’ll come as a surprise to people who haven’t driven an EV before.
It’s also quiet and refined on the motorway, though we’d have to add that the ride is a little firm at slow speeds - so opt for smaller wheels if you’re after the most comfortable ride possible.
How does it look?
If you’re after a sleek-looking EV then the Q4 e-tron Sportback will be right up your street. There’s the huge Singleframe grille at the nose of the vehicle, while the rear of the car has that hallmark sharp cut-off and a cool spoiler section. It’s definitely recognisable as an Audi vehicle, that’s for sure.
It’s got some more conventional features, too. So while the large e-tron SUV has clever cameras on the wings, the Q4 makes do with standard mirrors. For some, this inclusion of ‘regular’ features might make the transition to an electric car a little easier.
What’s it like inside?
As we’ve already mentioned, the Q4 e-tron sits on the Volkswagen Group MEB platform, so it has been designed first and foremost as an electric car, rather than adapted from existing petrol or diesel models. This means that there’s loads of space to play with inside, with rear-seat passengers in particular able to take advantage of a good deal of legroom and headroom.
When it comes to boot space, the Q4 does pretty well too. In fact, there are 520 litres to play with there, rising to 1,490 litres with the rear seats folded down.
What’s the spec like?
All Q4 models come with plenty of equipment as standard, with the car’s 10.1-inch infotainment system acting as the focal point to the forward part of the cabin. Fortunately, it’s clear and easy to use, while systems such as Apple CarPlay make integrating your smartphone into the system a bit easier.
All cars get three-zone climate control as standard, too, alongside LED headlights and Audi’s clever Virtual Cockpit system ahead of the driver.
Verdict
The Q4 e-tron Sportback is a fine addition to Audi’s range of electric vehicles. Sure, the standard Q4 offers plenty of attributes, but the added styling impact brought on by the Sportback means that it’ll no doubt prove a hit with those who like to make a statement.
Slightly fidgety ride aside, it’s also comfortable and refined, while a decent range means that it’s still a great choice for those who like to do longer distances as well.