- Audi’s first pure electric SUV
- 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds
- Set to rival Tesla Model X and Jaguar I-Pace
- Priced from $75,800 before tax credits
Audi’s E-Tron, the German automaker’s first 100-percent electric vehicle, a five-passenger SUV, lands on U.S. soil in the second quarter of 2019. Boasting architectural design elements and high-tech functionality, the E-Tron also with Audi’s signature Quattro all-wheel drive will start at $75,800.
Given car buyers’ current propensity for mid-size SUV’s Audi’s not taking much of a risk in choosing this vehicle as their first into all-electrified space. They join an already growing luxury party in the same segment including the Tesla Model X and Jaguar I-Pace, as well as the forthcoming Porsche Taycan and Mercedes-Benz EQC.
Size-wise the E-Tron comes in slightly smaller than Elon’s X and just above the Brit’s I-Pace. Power comes from a pair of electric motors, and while Audi hasn’t published final output numbers, they claim a 0-60 time of 5.5-seconds and a top speed of 124 mph.
Range figures announced later
Range figures are also unavailable at the time of this publication, but Audi ran a San Francisco to Lake Tahoe test, about 175 miles, and the E-Tron made it on a single charge with some to spare. As a result, their estimates are between 200-250 miles on a full charge. An 80% charge is projected to take 30 minutes with the E-Tron’s 9.6-kW AC Level 2 charger.
Exterior design takes some cues from the Q5 and Q8, and lands between the two size-wise with a length of 193 inches and a 115.1-inch wheelbase. It leans toward a more muscular, athletic, though not terribly futuristic. Its extended wheelbase gives the SUV low overhangs and a sportier stance, also allowing for more interior/battery space. The roofline drops in the rear almost like a fastback or coupe for better aero, and hopefully extended battery range.
Instead of cooling an engine, traditional front air intakes help shuttle air out through the wheel arch to aid aerodynamics. An E-Tron specific octagonal grille, which is of course unnecessary in an EV, in addition to horizontal-bar LED lighting both on head and taillights create signature E-Tron- design elements.
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Wrap-around cockpit
Inside the E-Tron, Audi’s wrap around cockpit envelopes the driver same as in the A7 and A8. High-end fit and finishes that also have high-tech usefulness adorn the cabin, including a trim piece around the interior door handle that not only houses ambient cabin light, but alerts the driver to on-coming traffic or a cyclist when the door opens.
Two touch screens make up the center stack, a larger 10-inch upper screen for phone, vehicle settings, navigation and media, and an 8.6-inch lower screen for HVAC operation. Knobs are quickly becoming a thing of the past. Virtual side-view mirrors are an uber-cool addition, however aren’t available in U. S. markets yet for government regulatory reasons. The center console design is expectedly architectural and sparse but with thoughtful detail for storage, phone use and integration, and coffee cup holders. Ah, the more vehicles go high tech the more they stay the same.
The E-Tron offers 28.5 cubic feet of space, which is more than the Jaguar I-Pace. Fold down the rear seats and that doubles to 57-cubic feet. By comparison the Model X boasts 88-cubic feet.
Offered in two trim levels
Two trims levels are available including the Premium Plus with a starting price of about $75,800 less the $7,500 tax credit. Standard Premium Plus features include 20-inch wheels, a top-view camera system, Audi’s new Virtual Cockpit Plus, and their excellent MMI Touch Response infotainment system with navigation. Other standard features include a Bang & Olufsen sound system, leather heated and ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof and the 9.6 kW AC home charger.
The Prestige Package costs $7,000 more and offers all that plus a head up display, driver assistance package, which includes safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane and assist. However, Audi’s Level 3 semi-automated system used on the A8 will not be available here. Audi Pre Sense 360 is, which means a lot of cameras all over the car, as well as massaging seats. Though we’re not sure how much that spa treatment depletes the battery, so be sure you have enough charge before relaxing too much.
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For 999 lucky folks the Edition One trim is available to order on a first come first serve basis for about $87,700. This special edition comes with Daytona Gray pearl paint, orange brake calipers and badging, and black Valcona leather interior with contrast stitching. It also comes with night vision assistant, which isn’t quite like being a Navy Seal, but it sounds cool.
Audi’s proprietary all-wheel drive system sees a first in the E-Tron with electronic Quattro, operated by two motors, one on each axel powering all four wheels. It also comes equipped with an air-suspension and a 4,000-pound towing capacity. Driving impressions will be later. While deliveries don’t begin sometime in the first half of next year, a $1,000 deposit can secure a 2019 Audi E-Tron immediately on Audi’s online or in-dealer reservation system.
2019 Audi E-Tron at the 2018 LA Auto Show
