Scaling the Electric SUV Racing: Audi Q4 55 e-Tron Quattro Tested Against All Odds
Electric All-Wheel Drive SUV Test: Audi Q4 55 E-Tron Quattro Assessed
By Patrick Broich...in-your-face, straight-shootin'...Where other car manufacturers are launching they-got-it-all models, Audi remains steadfast in the electric compact segment. For instance, the visually traditional Q4 e-Tron. ntv.de subjects the top-tier 55 Quattro to the fearless test.
Here's the deal: In electric mobility, the race is tough, with remarkable leaps in charging performance on the horizon. But is this the case ultimately? Well, it's a peculiar story when other manufacturers roll out slower 400-volt systems - even Alfa Romeo and Volvo are doing it. Audi takes the middle ground - only the midsize class and up sport the high-speed 800-volt charging. And yet, the compact Q4 isn't exactly budget-friendly, with a base price ranging from €46,150 to €59,000.
So, the question emerges: Why Audi over the competition? After all, 'lil ol' Kia zooms ahead with quicker charging in a similar price range. Chinese manufacturers like Xpeng outpace Audi too. But let's be straightforward: Audi's Volkswagen Group products are as powerful as the platforms allow. These are usually the modest Modular Electric Toolkit, with its limits - like 400 volts and a top speed of 180 km/h, even in the 340 hp all-wheel-drive top model we're scrutinizing here. Sure, 200 km/h is sometimes achieved (Cupra Born VZ), but that ain't the be-all, end-all. Besides, Audi has tweaked the Q4. The streamlined, APP550 motor on the rear axle boosts the range and reduces costs.
The Q4 seethes with Speed
Now, the Q4 allegedly serves as a Jack-of-all-trades - a daily commuter y'all, and a comfy family hauler for those extended trips. Well, that's where it gets tricky. Audi's cooked up its strongest Q4 horse for this ride, the 55 Quattro. Just like the horse, this baby charges forward like lightning, with 5.4 seconds to zip to 100 km/h. So watch out, having this much power could lead to unintended accidents. On the highway, the top speed doesn't quite align with the length dynamics.
Beyond the High-Speed Drama
This platform ain't as simple as it seems. The Q4 is, indeed, an agreeable cruiser, offering swanky seats (this test model sported snazzy, grippy microfiber upholstery) and top-notch Audi craftsmanship. It sports a suspension that attempts to please various personalities, from those who loooove smooth sails to the motorsports enthusiasts. That means the 2.2-ton, dual-motor car handles curves pretty well and keeps a steady pace. Inside, it's not as technologically advanced as today's standards might dictate. But hey, Audi keeps it traditional in a world where Korean high-tech competitors favor eccentric designs. Of course, the Audi comes equipped with a touchscreen for deeper functionality.
Reality Check on Range and Charging
Let's talk turkey. An electric car can drive superbly, but it's a bummer if it's not practical in real life. Audi guarantees ranges between 464 and 524 km (77-kWh battery), but these numbers often fall short in the real world. Cold or hot conditions affect energy consumption significantly, with the motor efficiency becoming a curse when energy is drained from the traction battery for heating or cooling purposes. And the power required for the climate control systems isn't cheap either. But fear not, over 300 km is still achievable unless you're flooring it constantly, which ain't usually possible.
At least, the engineers have boosted the peak charging power of the Q4 to 175 kW. Only, it's the charging curve that counts. If you need a battery boost from 10% to 80% in a pinch, do allow 30 minutes for that. To find the battery in tip-top shape, set the destination in the nav system, especially if it's a distance away.
The 4.59-meter Q4 might just be a fine traveler, with heaps of space for comfy accommodations and decent comfort. As for space, the trunk volume of 520 liters with the seats folded can handle extended family trips with four people. It can hold up to around 1500 liters, giving hope that the family won't grumble too much about the charging stops.
Other vehicles, not mechanically propelled, might offer quicker charging or similar prices, but the Audi Q4 55 e-Tron Quattro maintains a strong presence in the electric compact segment, tirelessly upholding the brand's legacy. Despite its traditional lifestyle and technology within the cabin, the Q4 55 Quattro boasts impressive sports capabilities, proving to be a formidable competitor in the race for electric mobility.
