Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron quattro: If You Want a Premium Version of the VW ID.4

We have sampled EVs from almost every major manufacturer in the US market. Volkswagen AG, which owns Audi has been rolling out their EVs with the e-tron moniker to set them apart from their gas-powered vehicles. The 2022 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron quattro is the latest addition to Audi's electric vehicle lineup. Built on Volkswagen Auto Group's MEB electric platform, the Q4 shares its underpinnings with the likes of the VW ID.4 that we have previously driven. But with Audi's luxury touches and premium design, the Q4 offers a driving experience that's hard to match. This Q4 takes a lot of what works with the VW ID.4 and fixes the common criticisms.

The Q4 Sportback e-tron is powered by a dual-motor setup that delivers a true quattro all-wheel-drive experience. The electric powertrain delivers a total of 295 horsepower and 339 lb.-ft. of torque, allowing the Q4 to go from 0-60 mph in an acceptably quick 5.8 seconds for this class of vehicle. With a top speed of 121 mph, this luxury electric SUV is no slouch on the Autobahn (or the highway).

One of the key advantages of an electric vehicle is the quiet and smooth driving experience, and the Q4 Sportback e-tron does not disappoint. The ride is calm and quiet, but with enough power to accelerate quickly when needed, making merging onto the highway or passing slower vehicles a breeze. EVs make for very good luxury vehicles, and this Q4 is no exception in that department.

The Q4 Sportback e-tron has an EPA-estimated range of 241 miles, thanks to its 82 kWh battery pack. And with DC fast charging capabilities up to 150 kW, the Q4 can recharge from 5% to 80% in just 36 minutes. The onboard charger allows for convenient home charging, too.

Inside, the Q4 Sportback e-tron features Audi's familiar design language. This very much feels like the A3 we were in last summer. Luxury touches like heated front seats and steering wheel with a two-person memory setting for the driver’s seat make this a great option for multiple drivers. The 10.25-inch Audi Digital Cockpit instrument cluster is easy to read and does not overwhelm you with information and the 10.1-inch Audi MMI touchscreen infotainment system has the clearest screen of any vehicle we have tested, offering easy access to vehicle information and entertainment options. Sadly, there was only a rear-facing camera and no 360º camera option, a sad omission in an otherwise stellar infotainment suite.

The Q4 Sportback e-tron also features nice touches like a panoramic sunroof and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. Even with its “SUV coupe” design that sacrifices rear cargo space for a sweeping rear window, the 26.1 cubic feet of rear cargo space, and 54.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, makes the Q4 a practical option for families or those with an active lifestyle.

The 2022 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron quattro starts at $52,700, and our test model came in at $60,790. While this is certainly a premium price point, the Q4 Sportback e-tron offers a combination of luxury and performance that should hit the sweet-spot for many drivers. While this is not the quickest or nicest EV we have tested, it would make for an excellent first EV for someone familiar with the Audi brand or who is looking for a premium all-around experience. If you're in the market for an electric vehicle with the latest technology and a focus on driving experience, the Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron quattro is definitely worth considering.