Audi Q4 e-tron Review

Audi Q4 e-tron performance

Thanks to the introduction of a new drive unit for all 2024 models, the Q4 e-tron’s performance is now worthy of note. Although the launch cars were brisk enough with 201bhp, they lacked the punch to rival competitors such as the Tesla Model Y.  

The new AP550 drive unit has boosted power outputs significantly, with the entry level 45 models now featuring more power than the previous performance range-topper. The e-tron 45 and 45 Quattro models can spring from 0-62mph in 6.7 and 6.6 seconds respectively, while the range-topping 55 Quattro model can do the same test in just 5.4 seconds. 

Audi is doing a great job of making sure their electric cars still feel like an ‘Audi’. Lots of people thought that once we switched over to electric all cars would start to feel the same and that just isn’t the case. Go for the top-rung, 335bhp Q4 e-tron 55 and you’ll have something with more of the startling off-the-line pace electric cars have made their party piece. 

There are all the usual drive modes to select from Comfort, Auto, Efficiency, Individual or Dynamic. Both Range and Efficiency boost efficiency by limiting the maximum speed, while there’s also a B ‘mode’ on the gear selector which boosts energy recuperation and you can play with the amount of regeneration you get using the paddles on the steering wheel. 

Audi Q4 e-tron drive 

If you have a higher-powered Q4 with Quattro all-wheel drive, you’ll have a very tidy handling car indeed. Ultimately, it doesn’t offer outright fun, but you get exactly what you expect from an Audi SUV… it feels solid and composed. 

And it really benefits from that when it comes to handling, with adaptive gadgets that move the power around to make cornering more stable. It even has something called variable dynamic weight distribution to help it deal with corners in a steady, reassuring style. It’s undoubtedly talented on a stretch of twisty country road, where it feels like a hefty two-tonne beast than it ought to, even if hustling it around with a squircle steering wheel is initially odd. The ride is decent too; it’ll get fussy over bumps and ruts, but anything with this much weight and wheels this large can probably claim the same. It should prove itself plush enough for everyday life.