Audi has looked at a flourishing SUV market in a world that is taking electric vehicles seriously for the first time and made a very sensible decision to launch the e-tron.
This is the first of three new all-electric cars on their way by 2020, all of which will wear the e-tron name. The next in line are GT and Q4 models, which are due to be released later this year.
What’s new about the new Audi e-tron?
This is the first time that Audi has sold a completely electric model. However, you shouldn’t feel bad if it didn’t jump out as anything other than another Audi SUV. While there are some subtle updates to the overall image, it does look very similar to other models in the Q range – and we don’t think that’s necessarily a bad thing.
How does it look?
The e-tron has been given some styling additions that both update the car’s look compared with others in the Audi range and improve efficiency.
From the front, it shares a similarly striking look to the latest Q8 model. However, has this moved on far enough from the existing range of SUVs?
Take out of the equation that this is an EV and the expectation that most buyers will want some futuristic technology, and it just doesn’t feel as special as it should when older Q-model SUVs drive by with a very similar design.
What’s the spec like?
The price of the Audi e-tron does start a little high at £70,805. You could buy a Q8 for £10,000 less or an entry-level Jaguar I-Pace comes in a little cheaper. However, the e-tron is packed with some great standard equipment and arguably better space than either of those models.
At entry level, the e-tron gets 20-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, air suspension, keyless entry, leather seats and parking cameras.
Continued on next page: Interior, driving experience and our verdict
