Audi e-tron

The Most Sensible EV?

With the EV mobility segment heating up in India, we've seen a long list of manufacturers launching new models, including Audi India. With the introduction of the new Audi e-tron, the segment, which already features rivals like the Jaguar I-Pace and the Mercedes-Benz EQC, undergoes a significant shift. Unlike any other electric SUV, the Audi e-tron takes a slightly different approach. It aims to deliver supreme luxury, and a comfortable and engaging driving experience, along with clean exterior styling devoid of any unnecessary drama.

Audi e-tron Pros and Cons

Audi e-tron Exterior Design

Visually, the e-tron bears a striking resemblance to Audi's range-topping SUV, the Q8, especially in vibrant shades that highlight its sleek shape. However, there are notable differences, particularly in the rear-end styling. The Q8 features an evolved rear design inspired by the Q7, while the e-tron's design cues draw more from the Q5's curves, albeit based on a modified version of the MLB evo platform.

Despite its roots, the Audi e-tron shares more in common with the larger Q7 and Q8 in terms of size (4,901mm length, 1,935mm width, 1,629mm height, with a 2,928mm wheelbase) than the Q5. Its 255/50 section 20-inch wheels further align it with the Q8's aesthetics, offering ample sidewall for comfort. The bright colour options complement the gloss black trim, which elegantly intersects the bodywork, particularly noticeable in the lower rear doors with additional aero elements, contributing to its impressive 0.27Cd aerodynamic efficiency.  

Audi e-tron Interiors

Upon stepping into the 2021 Audi e-Tron, one is immediately enveloped in an ambience of modern luxury and sophisticated craftsmanship. The highlight of the cabin remains the central console and the new dashboard layout which features a dual touchscreen setup: a 10.1-inch upper screen dedicated to infotainment and navigation, and an 8.6-inch lower screen that controls climate settings and other vehicle functions. The MMI touch response system is both intuitive and responsive, providing haptic feedback that enhances the user experience.

In front of the driver sits the Virtual Cockpit, a fully digital instrument cluster that can be customised to display a variety of information, from navigation maps to detailed vehicle data. Space within the cabin is generous, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The e-Tron also offers practical storage solutions, including a capacious boot that accommodates the demands of both daily commutes and longer excursions. 

Audi e-tron Comfort

Speaking of comfort, we are happy to report that the Audi e-tron is currently one of the most comfortable and spacious offerings in the electric mobility space and boasts comfortable and spacious seats along with a sorted ride quality. Both the front and rear seats are generously padded and can be adjusted in multiple ways, allowing passengers to find their ideal seating position with ease. Moving in and out of the car is a comfortable affair while the air suspension at all four corners soaks up road shocks very competently. Needless to say, there are drive modes that alter the ride’s softness and dynamics of the car. In all, the Audi e-tron, despite being a car focused on delivering maximum performance and practicality, does manage to keep the occupants inside the cabin comfortable with its package. 

Audi e-tron Performance and Handling

Offered in India with two powertrain options - 50 quatro and 55 quatro - the new Audi e-tron does offer multiple options for varied customers. In its sportiest settings, the range-topping version comfortably delivers a peak power and torque output of 408 hp and 644 Nm respectively while the claimed range stands at 484 km on a single charge. Needless to say, you will be impressed by the initial acceleration and performance offered by this electric powertrain, but what you will definitely miss is a standard creep mode which comes in handy during heavy traffic. Acceleration in the Audi e-Tron is both strong and linear, providing an effortless and refined driving experience. The electric powertrain delivers instant torque, allowing the e-Tron to gather speed quietly and seamlessly, making acceleration feel almost like a non-event. 

For those wondering, there are two settings for energy regeneration - manual and auto. What’s particularly impressive about the Audi e-Tron is how intuitive the auto mode feels when you lift off the accelerator. The deceleration is remarkably natural, closely mimicking the experience of an internal combustion engine vehicle. If you need to shed speed more rapidly, a simple tug on the left paddle increases the intensity of regenerative braking. Additionally, the e-Tron offers the flexibility to manually adjust regenerative braking. You can either turn it off completely or select from two preset levels.

To sum things up, while the Audi e-tron does offer some strong performance figures, a softer ride and an easy-going drive experience is something that stands out and might impress the majority of the buyers who are looking for a no-nonsense luxury EV with all modern bells and whistles. 

Audi e-tron Key specifications

Audi e-tron Safety Features

On the safety front, the Audi e-tron is offered with multiple advanced safety features including Audi Pre-Sense, as many as eight airbags, a 360-degree camera, and adaptive cruise control in addition to other standard features like traction control, ESP, tyre pressure monitoring system, hill assist, and more.  

Audi e-tron Technology and Infotainment

As one would expect from a car in this price range, the 2021 Audi e-Tron boasts a wealth of features within its cabin. Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, a hallmark of modern Audi vehicles, remains a key highlight, offering a fully digital instrument cluster that is customisable and highly informative. Complementing this is the new dual-screen setup in the centre console, which not only looks sleek but also provides intuitive control over a host of features including the four-zone automatic climate control and adaptive air suspension settings. What you also get with the new Audi e-tron are other features like digital Matrix LED headlamps, wireless charging pad, 16-speaker 705W Bang and Olufsen premium sound system, heads-up display, soft-closing doors, and more. On the downside though, you will definitely miss features like ventilated seats, wireless phone connectivity and connected car tech. 

Is the Audi e-tron for You?

Launched as the brand’s first electric offering in the country, the new Audi e-tron offers an exceptionally refined driving experience, marked by its quietness and effortless operation, surpassing even the standards set by the A8. While the absence of an engine may detract from its character, the unparalleled luxury it provides more than compensates.  Having said this, in addition to the performance, what you will also appreciate is the long list of features and a premium package that makes driving this car a fun affair. Despite its hefty price, however, what you get is a limited range and a softly sprung setup which might not make it an enthusiast’s favourite.