Audi Q4 e-tron review: performance, motor & drive

While not quite as fast as a Tesla Model Y, or sportier models from BMW and Mercedes, the Audi Q4 e-tron offers all the performance that most drivers could ever need. An update for 2023 has boosted power even further, while an upgraded suspension setup promises better handling, too.

Audi Q4 e-tron 0-62mph, top speed and acceleration

The entry-level Q4 45 e-tron replaces the old ‘40’ model and boasts an elevated power output of 282bhp, which is almost as much as the old top-of-the-range Q4 50 e-tron quattro. While we haven’t yet driven the Q4 45, even its 201bhp Q4 40 e-tron predecessor offered a plentiful amount of poke, delivering power in a smooth, yet instantaneous fashion. Audi now also offers the Q4 45 e-tron with quattro four-wheel-drive, which should make acceleration feel even more brisk, despite this model not having any additional power.

While even the quickest Q4 e-tron can’t keep pace with a Tesla Model Y Long Range, acceleration is still pretty swift and we never got tired of that during our time living with a 50 e-tron quattro. The new 55 e-tron quattro model should be even faster, though, with Audi promising a 0-62mph time of just 5.4 seconds.

Whether you opt for the 45 or 55 quattro models, Audi’s four-wheel-drive system feels reassuring when the roads get wet, plus it helps slingshot you out of corners when you start driving a bit more enthusiastically. 

Handling

The Q4 e-tron is remarkably refined and comfortable. In fact it’s one of the first things you notice as you get under way. Little noise is able to penetrate the cabin, and a supple suspension setup means the majority of ruts and bumps in the road are ironed out nicely. Audi says Q4 e-tron models sold from October 2023 will get retuned suspension, but we’re yet to confirm whether this has had any positive impact.

Regardless, of the drive modes on offer you’ll probably be better off sticking with the default Comfort setting as it’s the best for everyday driving, whether you’re in town or on a motorway. The Q4 e-tron isn’t our first pick for a fun EV to drive or take on a blast along a B-road – Audi says its suspension upgrade should make the Q4 e-tron more fun to drive – but switching to Dynamic mode gives a sharper throttle response and makes the car feel more punchy off the line and at higher speeds.

There is an optional adaptive suspension setup with damper control if you want to get the most out of the Q4 e-tron’s ride and dynamics, but we expect most people will be happy with the standard suspension. S line and Black Edition models, on the other hand, sit 15mm lower than the standard Q4. We found this setup pretty uncomfortable on longer stints, so we hope Audi’s recent updates will rectify our complaints.