AUDI

Q4 Sportback e-tron: the perfect balance between design and space

Audi was right to predict that electric technology would be expensive at first and that, therefore, it could be made more accessible by offering it in its luxury models. For this reason, it turned to the world of sedans (the e-tron GT, derived from the Porsche Taycan) and large SUVs. However, the electrification of automobiles is no longer a luxury, and that is why the Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron 40 S-line makes perfect sense today. After all, although it is not the cheapest Audi, it seems like a reasonable option for those who want to make the leap to premium electric driving without spending a fortune or sacrificing family-oriented features.

The first impression that the Q4 Sportback e-tron makes, even before we consider it beautiful, is one of robustness. At 4.59 meters long, it presents itself as muscular and solid, as if it belonged to a higher segment. Much of this impression is due to the size of the wheels, which in this S-line version are 20 inches in graphite gray. But their rounded shapes, the huge grille and the sloping roofline also contribute to this effect, giving the vehicle a sportier look.

In addition, this S-line variant complements all this with a rear spoiler, more prominent bumpers and specific side skirts, which give it a special touch that makes this electric car truly attractive.

Lighting is another key element of the exterior design. The optional Matrix LED headlights allow you to choose between four distinct light signatures for the daytime running lights. And at the rear, the light strip connecting the two taillights creates a dynamic welcome and farewell sequence that is mesmerizing at night; I guarantee it's very difficult to press the button and not turn your head as you walk away to admire the play of lights.

Upon opening the door, the Q4 Sportback's interior welcomes you with an atmosphere that combines the expected quality of materials with an intuitive control layout. Even before the screens, the almost hexagonal shape of the steering wheel immediately catches the eye; it has a futuristic feel, but the moment you get your hands on it, you realize you're going to love it. Just be careful not to accidentally touch any of the controls, as they are tactile (and backlit) and quite sensitive.

Screens...The technological package is complemented by the large 11.6-inch MMI Touch central screen, which dominates the dashboard. This screen, slightly angled towards the driver, offers quick response and excellent clarity, allowing you to easily navigate the infotainment system and plan charging stops using the navigation system, for example. Complementing this experience, the 10.25-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit behind the steering wheel provides all the necessary information in a clear and customizable format.

One of the greatest achievements of the MEB electric platform is the interior space it has made possible. By eliminating the transmission tunnel and positioning the battery flat under the floor, Audi has created a cabin with rear legroom worthy of a much larger car. It's surprising how, in a vehicle shorter than an A4, passengers can travel with exceptional freedom of movement. Even in this Sportback version, whose body is a few millimeters lower, there is no feeling of confinement for people of average or even tall stature.

We also appreciate the fact that Audi has considered daily storage with practical solutions, such as the door pockets for bottles up to one liter, in a high and easily accessible position. The trunk, in turn, stands out with a capacity of 535 liters, exceeding the 520 liters of the Q4 e-tron SUV.

The Q4 Sportback 40 offers 204 hp and 310 Nm of torque. These numbers are not impressive, but they are enough to move its 2,200 kg with relative ease and propel it from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds (the top speed is limited to 160 km/h). Furthermore, the instant power delivery facilitates overtaking and highway entry, with the electric agility we appreciate so much. However, we must take into account the laws of physics: on wide curves and at high speed, the weight of the battery becomes noticeable, generating inertia that slightly pushes the car off course if we increase the pace. But this behavior is quite predictable and well controlled, reminding us that we are dealing with an SUV focused on comfort, not pure sportiness.

Only 59 kWh usable...The braking system also features that characteristic feel of electric vehicles, where the initial part of the pedal travel is dedicated to energy recovery before the mechanical activation of the discs. This requires a brief adaptation period to modulate braking with the precision we prefer. Regarding range, the 63 kWh battery (59 kWh usable) boasts a homologated range of 419 kilometers, but our test demonstrates that reaching 300 kilometers in real-world driving conditions on highways, with luggage and passengers, will be virtually impossible.

During our test days, the average consumption was less than 17 kWh/100 km on urban routes and expressways; very low. And when we entered the highway and maintained speeds of 120 km/h (without passengers or luggage), the value approached 20 kWh, a very good result that facilitates long-distance travel, provided we plan the charging accordingly. For recharging, the Q4 accepts up to 11 kW of alternating current (for overnight charging in about 7.5 hours) and up to 135 kW from public high-speed chargers, allowing it to recover from 10% to 80% in 24 minutes.

With a price of €55,130 for this S-line unit, the Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron 40 positions itself as a solid premium option; a car that impresses with its design, captivates with its interior space, and exceeds expectations in terms of technology.

Autonews