Substantial updates are inbound for Audi’s Q4 e-tron and Q4 e-tron Sportback.
Audi has released a substantial set of upgrades for its Q4 e-tron and Q4 e-tron Sportback twins for the 2024 model year. Having first launched the Q4 electric SUV onto the market in mid-2021, Audi will now offer three powertrain options, all with improved efficiency, electric range and performance. The new models will go on sale at the end of this month in Europe but the Q4 e-tron is yet to launch in Australia.
Across the range, all Q4 e-tron models utilise new permanently synchronous motors (PSM) combined with a 77kWh (usable) battery pack. The new Q4 e-tron range will kick off in a new ‘45’ form, replacing the previous ‘40’ model with an 60kW power increase for the single, rear-mounted motor, now rated at 207kW. Performance is significantly improved by reaching 100km/h in 6.7 seconds, 1.8 seconds faster than the previous model. Despite all the extra performance, the projected range has also risen to 546km. Peak charging speed at a DC fast charger is rated at 135kW.
Above this sit two twin-motor options, the Q4 45 and 55 Quattros. They produce 207kW and 245kW, and reach 100km/h in 6.6 and 5.4 seconds respectively. The latter figure is 0.8 seconds faster than the previous flagship. These two models feature a higher 175kW peak charging speed, going from 10-80 per cent in 29 minutes.
As well as improvements derived from the new e-motors, the increase in range and performance is also thanks to better thermal management of the battery pack. As well as new pre-conditioning parameters, the batteries now also have a post-conditioning process to help prolong battery health.
Alongside the powertrain updates, Audi’s also recalibrated the suspension system, which is available in both standard and Sports specifications. The sports setup sits 15mm lower than the standard, with improvements to both ride and handling on the cards. There’s also an adaptive damper option for both versions, each getting their own specific updates.
The Audi Q4 e-tron range structure will remain similar to the current car, with each powertrain option available in base Sport, S-Line and Black Edition trims. These changes are spread across both the SUV and Sportback body styles.