Keeping Up the Pace: Audi Q4 55 e-Tron Quattro - A Premium Electric Compact SUV
Electric All-Wheel Drive SUV, Audi Q4 55 E-Tron Quattro, Undergoes Testing
By Patrick BroichFacebookTwitterWhatsAppEmailPrintCopy LinkIn a world where innovation reigns, Audi stands its ground in the electric compact segment with the tradition-loving Q4 e-Tron. ntv.de puts the high-powered 55 Quattro to the test.
As the model life cycles go, the edge often shifts to those who debut newer cars. In the electric mobility realm, this dance is particularly intriguing, as mammoth strides in charging performance loom. Yet, is the competition truly leaps and bounds ahead? It's not always the case. Audi, like Alfa Romeo and Volvo, opts for a 400-volt system in the compact class, despite boasting 800-volt capabilities in the mid-size segment. And despite the Q4's hefty price tag—ranging from 46,150 to 59,000 euros—it's no luxury liner.
So, why choose Audi over the competition? After all, Kia and Chinese brands like Xpeng offer faster charging in the same price range. The Audi Q4's success rests on the dependable Volkswagen Group platforms, which, despite their limitations, still deliver a powerful punch. The Q4 welcomes the efficient APP550 motor on the rear axle, ensuring a longer range and reduced costs.
Rapid Acceleration Meets Safe Driving
The Q4, driving on the conservative side, is designed as a multipurpose vehicle. It's a commuter for daily commuting, a comfortable cruiser for family vacations, and a capable tool for field service workers—all wrapped in one. Audi delivers the 55 Quattro for this review, showcasing the Q4's full potency from the get-go. While its performance exceeds what's needed for everyday driving, it can leave some drivers wanting with its unpredictable acceleration and speed capabilities. A full throttle might be too much for some, risking collisions with the car ahead. Fortunately, a more restrained driving style allows the Q4 to maintain a decent pace.
Premium Comfort Among Tech-Savvy Rivals
The Q4 is a testament to Audi's famous build quality, clocking in as a somewhat traditional option amid sleek, high-tech competitors. Large panels, tactile buttons, and a touchscreen for deeper functionality provide a comfortable driving experience. An uncluttered dashboard and a not-too-flashy design make the Q4 a refreshing alternative to the radical interior designs of Korean competitors.
Real-World Range and Charging Concerns
The elephant in the room: range and charging ability. An electric vehicle can drive beautifully but fall flat in practicality due to poor range and charging performance. Audi promises WLTP ranges of 464 to 524 kilometers (77 kWh battery), but real-world figures often disappoint. Cold or hot weather impacts energy consumption, with heating energy drawn from the traction battery and the air conditioning compressor consuming an additional dose of power. But with reasonable driving habits, the 4.59-meter-long Q4 should provide a range of over 300 kilometers, enough for the daily grind. At least charging woes are limited, as the Q4 boasts a peak charging power of 175 kW[1].
[1] Be sure to find a charger with a compatible charging curve, as a rapidly depleted battery will require at least a 30-minute wait to recharge to 80%.
[2] Enjoy the Audi Q4's impressive horsepower and torque, ideal for those who seek a mix of luxury and speed in their compact electric SUV
[3] The Q4's conservative design and traditional dashboard appeal to those who favor simplicity over high-tech gadgetry
[4] Audi's brand reputation for quality and reliability justifies the Q4's higher price compared to some competitors
[5] The available different body styles (Sportback and standard Q4) offer an extra layer of customization for consumers
- In contrast to technology-driven competitors, the Audi Q4 e-Tron, with its conventional design and tactile features, caters to individuals who prefer a lifestyle that values simplicity and tradition.
- Other vehicles, not mechanically propelled, might offer quicker charging capabilities in the same price range, but the Audi Q4 e-Tron's technological advantage lies in its powerful drivetrain and dependable Volkswagen Group platforms, setting it apart from the competition.
