Audi has cut the entry price of the Q4 e-tron with the launch of a cheaper version of its big-seller, with the smaller battery reintroduced to the range. Starting at £46,600, the new Q4 40 e-tron uses the smaller 63kWh battery to keep costs down and costs £5,395 less than the previous entry level Sport 45. The Sportback variant starts at £48,100.

The rear-wheel-drive Q4 40 e-tron delivers up to 250 miles of range (or 258 miles for the sleeker Sportback variant because of the improved aerodynamics), while its 165kW DC fast-charging capability can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in 24 minutes. A 10-minute charge adds up to 96 miles.

The battery-preconditioning tech is now available manually via the infotainment system, rather than requiring the station to be entered as a destination in the car’s sat nav - a boon to anyone who prefers to use their smartphone for navigation.

Performance takes a hit compared to the more expensive models though: 0-62mph is in 8.1 seconds with a 204PS electric motor compared to the 45’s 286 PS and 6.7 seconds.

Standard kit includes Audi’s MMI navigation plus, Audi Connect navigation, and a 10.25-inch Audi virtual cockpit instrument cluster. LED lights, dual-zone climate control, and faux-leather upholstery are also included.

Pre-orders open on March 13th, with the first deliveries expected in the summer of 2025. The Audi Q4 e-tron was the UK’s second best-selling electric vehicle in 2024.