Audi E-Tron Introduction:
The Audi E-Tron is a contemporary-looking, practical large electric SUV. The car can shock you with its impressive performance. This though is not the best bet to have on long journeys. This car is best suited for those who wish to own a practical luxury electric SUV. It goes directly against the Mercedes EQC, and Jaguar I-Pace. It resembles the looks of a traditional Audi SUV. Things do spice up once you enter the cabin of the Audi E-Tron. For starters, the car houses a high-tech infotainment system. It gets three high-resolution screens which come as standard. The Audi E-Tron starts from £57,035 for the 50 Quattro. It tops at £70,144 for the 55 QUATTRO.
Audi E-Tron Drive:
The car churns out a healthy 408 hp, and the performance is super instant. On the downside, the massive size hinders the cornering ability of the E-Tron. The two electric motors and batteries help the car to do 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The car has a claimed range of 124 mph which makes it slower than the basic Tesla Model X.
The E-Tron is four-wheel-driven on account of motors at both the front and rear axle. The car comes to its very best in Sports Mode. In other modes the top speed is limited and it does a 0-62 mph sprint in over 6.5 seconds. On the plus side, you get prolonged battery life and increased range. In controlled conditions, the E-Tron gives a 250-mile range. This above-average range is because of the regenerative braking, it charges the batteries once you lift your foot off the accelerator pedal. But still, the range falls short of Jaguars I-Pace which has a healthier 290-mile range.
The drive is silent and the instant performance can make this big SUV a nimble city car. On highways, the 408 hp motor comes in handy to thrust it through long stretches of roads. Being heavier by 300 kg makes the E-Tron a little sluggish while maneuvering around sharp corners. It dooes not feel as agile as the Jag. The Audi’s air suspension makes it one of the most relaxed electric SUV’s. At corners though, the E-Tron tends to lose its composure on account of ts tallbody.
Battery and Charging:
A wall mounted charger takes 9 hours to fully charge the Audi E-Tron. A 150 kW fast charger can charge the batteries up to 80% in 30 minutes time. Having a range of 250 miles means it is lower than the Ford Mustang Mach-E. The battery weighs 700 kg’s and is hidden under the floor. Hard driving can substantially reduce battery longetivity and range.
Interior:
The car is vastly spacious and offers a lot of practicality. Apart from a few nuances like flimsy material on the centre console, and glovebox, the cabin matches Audi’s standards. At the rear you can comfortably seat three adults. With a 605-litre massive boot, storage is much better than the Mercedes EQC and Jaguar I-Pace. The car gets leather interior and ambient lighting as standard. Higher variants get Valcona leather and E-Tron badges. The addition of a panaromic sunroof makes the cabin airy and light. In place of conventional door mirrors, Audi has equipped the car with rear-facing cameras.