Audi e-tron SUV 2020 Review

Audi has a new name for its all-electric models, a sub-brand if you will. The name is e-tron and the company’s first model is called just that: e-tron. The name will suffix other more familiar models - notably the forthcoming Q4 e-tron - and will help take Audi forward into the electric age.

Exterior

There is nothing shy or retiring about the e-tron’s looks: strong-shouldered, bold-grilled and very high waisted, it sits on considerable 20 or 21-inch wheels. In contrast to the dramatic front and large haunches, the tail is neat and its features more subtle.

While unmistakably an SUV, its lower roof line is on trend as consumers look for sleeker silhouettes. For those seeking to pay a premium for an even lower roofed version, e-tron Sportback is available too.

Interior

Inside, it’s all very Audi, with familiar, neat screens and clear 12.3-inch driver display. Muted textures and finishes grace the dashboard and there’s smart e-tron badging ahead of the passenger. Build is up to Audi’s usual standard and it feels particularly spacious for front and rear passengers.

One option fitted to the car I drove was Virtual Door Mirrors, with screens set in the door panels showing the view from rear-facing, door-mounted cameras. While tiny cameras save some of the drag caused by large mirrors, they won’t be to everyone’s taste: the screens are set a little low and do require the driver to focus close up and then refocus back on the road ahead.

Engine power & specs

Two battery power outputs are available, denoted by Audi’s new numbering system with either ’50’ or ’55’ on the tailgate. The 50 has a 71kWh battery, producing 313 PS; the 55 a 95kWh and 408PS. Both models are all-wheel-drive and of course automatics.

The 95kWh 55 model - driven - gives the e-tron a very practical 248 mile range, according to the official WLTP test cycle figures. Rapid charging can achieve 80% of charge in approximately 45 minutes; using an 11kW home charger will take around 8.5 hours.

Performance & drive

Driving the e-tron is a serene affair, the pleasing surge of power, a whisper of road noise and very little else. Air suspension and adaptive dampers come as standard but the e-tron does feel its two-and-a-half tonne weight, and some of the road’s smaller imperfections can be felt in the cabin.

The e-tron will be trying to pinch sales from sporty rivals such as Jaguar’s I-PACE and Tesla’s Model X and in terms of performance, it is undeniably quick. Sport mode does improve body control significantly too, yet feels harsh; better is to ease into the comfortable seats and enjoy the e-tron as a grand tourer rather than a sports car.

The verdict

So it’s here: Audi’s first all-electric car, the accomplished e-tron. We like its refinement, build quality and promise of up to 248 miles on each full charge. Importantly, it’s here today and shows that drivers won’t be having to make compromises when petrol and diesel are but distant memories.