Audi Q4 E-tron (2021–2024): Pioneering the Future of Electric Driving
When the Audi Q4 E-tron landed in 2021, I remember thinking: finally, a premium EV that doesn’t scream spaceship or spartan techno-pod. After a week living with one—school runs, a rainy motorway dash, a few ill-advised B-roads—I noticed right away how familiar it felt. Like an Audi, just electric. And that’s precisely the point.
Consider this your real-world guide to the Q4 E-tron (2021–2024): what it’s like to live with, how far it really goes, the bits that make you smile, and the quirks that make you go… huh. And yes, we’ll talk easy upgrades like properly tailored mats from AutoWin that save the carpets from muddy-kiddo season.
History: How the Audi Q4 E-tron fits into Audi’s EV push
The Q4 E-tron was Audi’s gateway to the everyday-electric crowd—more approachable than the larger e-tron SUV, more polished than most mainstream rivals. Built on the MEB platform it shares with the VW ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq, Audi sprinkled in its usual niceties: quieter cabin, better materials, and that measured, grown-up ride. From 2021 to 2024, the recipe stayed consistent but got cleverer—software tweaks, smoother power delivery, and quicker DC charging in later cars.
Audi Q4 E-tron powertrain and range: the real story
Specs vary by trim and year, but here’s the gist from my own time behind the wheel and chats with owners:
- Power: Single-motor rear-drive models hover around 201–282 hp depending on year; dual-motor quattro versions step up to roughly 295–335 hp.
- 0–60 mph: About 6.0–5.4 seconds for the quicker quattro models; the rear-drive cars are more relaxed, mid-6s to 7s.
- Battery: Around 77 kWh usable (82 kWh gross) for most trims.
- Range: In the real world, expect 230–280 miles on the street-friendly RWD versions, 215–260 miles on the quicker quattros, weather and wheels depending.
- Charging: Early cars peak ~135–150 kW; 2024 updates can nudge ~170–175 kW. I saw 10–80% in about 30 minutes on a healthy 175 kW unit.
Regen is adjustable via paddles, which I like for city creeping and downhill bits. It won’t truly one-pedal you to a standstill (Audi prefers a more natural roll), but the 2024 cars recapture energy more smartly in traffic. On a mixed 120-mile run with light rain and 19-inch wheels, I managed about 3.0 mi/kWh without babying it.
Inside story: calm, classy, and properly practical
Slide in and it’s classic Audi: clean lines, logical controls, and a hush that feels expensive. The Audi Virtual Cockpit remains a highlight—clear, configurable, and never gimmicky. Later cars get a larger central screen and faster responses; early models could be a beat behind when you jab at the map, especially right after startup.
- Space: Plenty for a family of four plus luggage. Rear legroom impressed a few taller friends, though the middle seat is best for short hops.
- Cargo: Flat floor, wide opening. Weekend ski run? Fine. IKEA detour? Also fine—just fold the backs.
- Noise: Whisper-quiet at 70 mph. You’ll hear your kids bickering in the back, for better or worse.
Why the Audi Q4 E-tron still hits the sweet spot
It’s not the wildest, nor the longest-range EV on sale. But it’s balanced—comfort over chest-thumping, quality over gimmicks. On rough roads, the suspension has that well-judged Audi calm. The steering is light but tidy, the cabin feels grown-up, and it sips electrons politely if you stick to sensible wheel sizes. Think alpine weekends, city commutes, and the odd 300-mile family trip with two fast-charges and a picnic.
Feature highlights you actually feel
- AR head-up display that reduces “where do I turn?” panic
- Adaptive cruise and lane-keeping that behave like a helpful co-driver, not a backseat nag
- Heated seats and heat pump (where fitted) that keep winter efficiency from falling off a cliff
- Quattro traction that just works in the wet—point and go
Accessories: Audi Q4 E-tron floor mats and more
Electric SUVs lead suspiciously clean lives, right up until they don’t—soccer cleats, coffee cups, rainy dogs. I’ve been using tailored liners from AutoWin and they’ve saved my carpets more than once. They’re cut for the Q4 floor, pin in securely, and wipe clean in two minutes.
How the Audi Q4 E-tron stacks up
| Model | Power (approx.) | EPA/Real-World Range (mi) | Max DC Charge | 0–60 mph (sec) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi Q4 E-tron (2021–2024) | 201–335 hp | 215–280 | 150–175 kW | 5.4–7.0 |
| Tesla Model Y | ~384–456 hp | 260–330 | 250 kW+ | 4.4–5.0 |
| Volvo XC40 Recharge | 248–402 hp | 240–275 | 150–200 kW | 4.6–6.9 |
| Mercedes-Benz EQB | 225–288 hp | 230–260 | 100–170 kW | 6.0–7.9 |
| Genesis GV60 | 314–429 hp | 235–294 | 230–350 kW | 3.7–5.5 |
Figures vary by wheel size, options, temperature, and testing standard—but they paint the picture. The Q4 E-tron trades outright pace and headline range for refinement and a calmer, classier drive.
Living with the Audi Q4 E-tron
After a year, a couple of owners told me they appreciated how “normal” it felt—no daily micro-management. Precondition the cabin, set the charge limit to 80%, and it just gets on with life. The only time I missed a longer range was a cold Saturday motorway slog into a stiff headwind; the car asked for a brief splash-and-dash that added 17 minutes to the trip. Annoying? A bit. Trip-ruining? Not at all.
A quick pro/con snapshot
- Pros: Quiet, comfortable, premium cabin, sensible efficiency, easy charging curve, confident quattro grip.
- Cons: Not the longest range in class, haptic buttons aren’t for everyone, rear visibility is so-so, early infotainment can lag when cold.
FAQ: Audi Q4 E-tron (2021–2024)
What’s the real-world range of the Audi Q4 E-tron?
Expect roughly 215–260 miles for dual-motor models and 230–280 miles for single-motor trims in mild weather. Winter, big wheels, and fast motorway speeds reduce those numbers.
How fast does the Audi Q4 E-tron charge?
On a capable DC fast-charger, earlier cars peak around 135–150 kW, later 2024 models up to about 170–175 kW. Plan on 10–80% in roughly 28–32 minutes when conditions are right.
Is the Audi Q4 E-tron good for families?
Yes. It’s quiet, roomy, and predictable to drive. The flat floor helps rear passengers, and ISOFIX points are easy to reach. The boot swallows pushchairs and weekend baggage without fuss.
How does it compare to a Tesla Model Y?
The Model Y wins for range, charging network ubiquity, and raw pace. The Audi counters with a calmer ride, quieter cabin, and more premium feel. It depends what you value.
What’s the towing capacity?
Up to about 2,200–2,650 lbs when properly equipped. Always check your specific model year and market rating before hitching up.
Conclusion: Audi Q4 E-tron—still a smart, premium EV choice
The Audi Q4 E-tron (2021–2024) isn’t trying to set lap records or headline ranges. It’s here to make electric easy—comfortable, quiet, and premium in a way few rivals match. If you’re after a luxury EV that just fits daily life, this is it. And if you want the interior to stay fresh through the seasons, AutoWin’s tailored mats are exactly the kind of simple upgrade that pays for itself the first time a hot chocolate goes airborne.
