The Audi E-tron is a smart looking car which features the design elements, careful attention to detail and quality that Audi fans expect.
Here’s the technical bit!
The E-tron is run by an electric driveline with two asynchronous motors – one sitting up front with 181bhp and the other at the rear with 221bhp– connected by an electronic ‘prop shaft’ that eschews a conventional mechanical connection for a wiring loom. Together, the two motors provide four-wheel drive and deliver up to 402bhp and 487lb ft, although this is only available in Boost mode, which also gives the new Audi a claimed 0-62mph time of 5.7sec. Top speed is limited to 124mph.
In normal mode power and torque are reduced by 13% and 18% respectively, to 350bhp and 414lb ft, to increase the range, although this is still enough for a 0-62mph time of 6.4sec. Energy is supplied by a liquid-cooled 95kWh lithium ion battery mounted low in the floor. Overall, the battery weighs 700kg – a good chunk of the car’s 2490kg kerb weight.
The battery can be charged using a 150kW fast charger, with which Audi claims a charging time of just 30 minutes up to an energy capacity of 80%. For home charging there is a standard 11kW charger, which charges the battery in 8.5 hours.
How it drives
The E-tron is applauded for its on-road quietness with just a faint and distant whine from the electric motors at each end of the cabin – as well as quiet it is reviewed as a very smooth ride but with some ‘poke’ – AutoCar say, “A simple nudge of the accelerator releases sufficient muscle to propel the E-tron from standstill with highly responsive and vigorous performance.”
In the cabin
Audi are renowned for their solid interiors and the E-tron does not disappoint. It oozes style and gadgetry! The driving position and overall accommodation is excellent, and with a total of 660 litres of luggage capacity – 60 litres under the bonnet and 600 litres of boot space – it is practical, too. With the rear seats folded, it offers 1725 litres of space.
AutoCar says, “Audi has delivered a car with all the hallmarks of its conventionally engined models: smart styling, outstanding quality and a level of engineering that sets it apart both from the masses and from its rivals.”
Car Magazine says, “ As you’d expect, the e-Tron’s engineering is polished, what you might not expect is how well it handles given its vast size and weight. The e-Tron is also comfortable and spacious, and will hit the spot for wealthy Audi fans keen to embrace zero emissions.”
Top Gear says, “A very conventional Audi, built to persuade regular SUV buyers to make the EV jump.”
The Audi E-tron can be leased from OVL from £455.99+VAT per month - take a look at Audi e-tron lease deals here.