Automakers continue to refine and improve their all-electric offerings as the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) grows. Two models lurking in the background are the 2025 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron and 2025 Polestar 2. These luxury EVs boast appealing styling, strong performance, and comfortable, tech-forward interiors. The only downside for these two is that neither currently qualifies for federal tax credits when purchased, but continue to check and see because the rules change from time to time.
Let’s take a closer look at these EVs.
2025 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron
2024 model shown
Audi’s Q4 Sportback e-tron is the sportier, more design-forward version of the Q4 e-tron SUV. It features a coupe-like roofline designed to make it look a little more aggressive, albeit at the expense of headroom for rear-seat passengers. The tapered roof doesn’t reduce the ample legroom in the back, and surprisingly, this model actually offers a bit more cargo space than its more conventionally styled SUV sibling.
Once inside the cabin, you’ll find an impressive array of technology, most of it routed through an 11.5-inch touchscreen. The driver also benefits from an impressive head-up display that offers directional cues from the navigation system in addition to the usual information.
This Audi electric SUV benefits from a dual-motor layout that provides plenty of power—335 hp—and all-wheel drive (AWD). The Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback can travel up to 258 miles on a charge and do 0-60 mph in five seconds flat. Prices start at $59,495, including destination charges.
Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron Highlights
Quick charge: The Audi Q4 e-tron can charge from 10% to 80% of its capacity in as little as 28 minutes using DC fast charging. This goes a long way in easing range anxiety.
Superior sound: Sonos built a reputation for making great home audio setups and Bluetooth speakers. Now the company is supplying Audi with crisp and well-defined systems.
Head-up display: Featured in the Prestige trim, the brand’s augmented reality head-up display superimposes arrows on navigation instructions to make life easier for the driver.
Read our Audi Q4 Expert Review or see 2025 Audi Q4 models for sale near you.
2025 Polestar 2
2024 model shown
The Polestar 2 arrived last year as the Volvo spinoff began making inroads into the EV market. Very quickly, the model has already been upgraded in a number of ways, including power, charging time, range, and driving dynamics. Pricing starts at $66,200, including destination charges.
While the Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron is more of an SUV, the Polestar 2 is more of a coupe-like sedan. Its profile crimps the available room in the rear seat but gives it a sporty, contemporary look. The 5-seater offers occupants enough space to get comfortable on either vegan leather or the genuine article. There’s also plenty of technology to keep them safe and entertained during a trip.
Previously available in single- and dual-motor configurations, the Polestar 2 is currently offered only in dual-motor form. The standard dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain is equipped with the previously optional Performance Pack by default. It outputs 476 hp and has a 0-60 mph time to the low 4-second range.
Polestar 2 Highlights
Easy fix: Perhaps one of the Polestar 2’s most unique aspects is the ability to replace individual lithium-ion battery cells. If one fails, it can be swapped out rather than having to replace the entire battery pack, which is a much costlier proposition.
Performance Pack: This now-standard bundle adds Öhlins adjustable shock absorbers and upgraded Brembo brakes. These third-party companies have forged strong reputations through motorsport. The pack also includes new-design 20-inch alloy wheels and gold-colored seat belts.
Impressive sound: A 13-speaker/600-watt system designed by Harmon Kardon specifically for the Polestar 2 is part of the optional Plus Pack.
Read our Polestar 2 Expert Review or see 2025 Polestar 2 models for sale near you.
Similarities
The Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron and Polestar 2 feature coupe-style exteriors with powerful all-electric drivetrains offering a mix of power and handling not often found in compact EVs.
Conclusion
This is a matter of style versus performance. The Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron is a more attractive and luxurious machine. The dual motor version of the Polestar 2 adds 181 more hp, and it’s about 10% more expensive—that’s tough to ignore. The Polestar is the performance choice, and the Audi is the fancier option. Polestar is also a newer brand, while Audi is established and has a strong network of dealerships and service centers.
New 2025 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron Prices
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Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
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|---|---|---|---|---|
$59,495 |
$55,687 |
|||
$63,295 |
$59,244 |
|||
$66,095 |
$61,864 |
New 2025 Polestar 2 Prices
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Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$66,200 |
TBD |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron vehicles and New 2025 Polestar 2 vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
| 2025 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron | 2025 Polestar 2 | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | Dual AC electric motors | Dual AC electric motors |
| Horsepower | 295 hp | 476 hp |
| Torque | 339 lb-ft | 546 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 1-speed automatic AWD | 1-speed automatic |
| Fuel Economy | 100 city/89 highway/95 combined MPGe | 124 city/106 highway/115 combined MPGe |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5 stars | 5 stars |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 108.7 inches | 107.7 inches |
| Overall Length | 180.7 inches | 181.3 inches |
| Width | 73.4 inches | 73.2 inches |
| Height | 64.0 inches | 58.2 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 37.7 feet | 37.7 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 38.5 inches | 41.3 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 37.0 inches | 37.0 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.2 inches | 42.2 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 37.2 inches | 33.9 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 56.7 inches | 54.6 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 55.1 inches | 52.6 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 26.1 cubic feet | 14.4 cubic feet |
