2019 Audi E-tron Electric

The E-Tron is amongst the very first SUVs to flaunt VW's all-new MLB-Evo platform which Volkswagen claims to be much better than its previous iterations. The E-Tron promises to ferry 5 people happily from one place to another with utmost comfort, luxury, at a quick pace and without having to worry about the range. It also employs a lot of futuristic technologies that include virtual exterior RVM on the inside, Audi's virtual cockpit and an Ultra-fast charger that can top up the SUV in under 2 hours flat. The claimed range by Audi is over 248 miles, however,  the EPA is yet to be tested out in the real world.

The E-Tron is available in 2 trims namely, Premium Plus and Prestige, the prices of both being $75,795 and $82,795 respectively. Both come with Audi's Quattro tech and prospective buyers need to register for the E-Tron at Audiusa.com. The E-Tron rivals the Jaguar I-Pace SUV, Tesla's Model X and the upcoming Mercedes Benz EQC.

The 2019 Audi E-Tron is offered in two trims, Premium Plus and the top-trim - Prestige. Following the typical tradition of trim segregation, the Premium Plus misses out some extra features. However, let's not underestimate it either. You get loads of standard features pertaining to both comfort and luxury in it too. 

Having said that, the "Prestige" trim further takes things up a notch with some segment-defining features such as Valcona leather-wrapped seats with individual contours, powered door-closers and it also comes with the driver assistance package as standard.

Trim	Premium Plus	Prestige
MSRP	$75,795	$82,795
Features	Audi Pre Sense City and Ride	Adds/Upgrades to Premium Quattro
	Matrix design LED Headlights	Driver Assistance Package
	B&O 3D Premium Sound System	Heads-up display
	Heated and Ventilated Front Seats	Individual Contour Seats with Valcona Leather
	MMI Navigation with Virtual Cockpit Plus	Massage Function for Front Seats
	Top View Camera with Virtual 3D	Air Quality Package-Ionizer and Fragrance
		Power Door Closers

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The top-trim, "Prestige", is flooded with some extravagant features such as massaging seats, HUD display and a few other creature comforts that set it completely apart from its segment. With a premium of about $7k over the base trim, we think that the "Prestige" trim justifies all its worth pretty well.

Unlike the BMW i3 or the Jaguar i-Pace, this EV wasn't designed to make a bold statement, and with its smooth power delivery, mainstream design and ultra-quiet cabin, it doesn't need to -Roadandtrack.com

The 2019 Audi E-Tron comes powered by two electric motors (one for each axle) which themselves are powered by a 95KWH Li-Ion battery pack. This Dual Motor setup propelling the Audi produces a total power output of 355HP. All of these horses can propel all four wheels of the car - courtesy of Audi's Quattro, however, its the rear wheels that are busier most of the time.  The total torque is rated at 414ft.-lbs in standard mode. Shifting into sport mode, however, ramps up the power output to 402 horses and torque to 490ft.-lbs.

The power delivery is quite linear but the throttle is pretty sensitive too. It can get snatchy at times but Audi has very cleverly mimicked the crawling character of the car which is prominent in the gasoline automatics. This could get handy in traffic situations where the E-Tron starts crawling once the foot is lifted off the brake pedal. Apart from that, if you slam the accelerator down, the power surge kicks in instantly and could even catch you by surprise if you're not familiar with the electric vehicles. 

Models	Audi E-Tron Premium Plus with Quattro	Tesla Model X AWD	Jaguar I-Pace S AWD
MSRP	$75,795	$89,200	$70,495
Engine	Dual Asynchronous Electric motors	Dual 3 phase. 4 pole AC Induction Motor with Copper Rotors	2 Permanent Magnet Synchronous Electric Motors
Transmission	Single Speed Direct Drive	Single Speed direct drive	Single Speed
Horsepower	355hp	N/A	394hp
Torque	414ft.-lbs.	N/A	513ft.-lbs.

In terms of responsiveness from motors, we are happy to report that most customers will be enthralled by the E-Tron. Power delivery is supremely linear and the responses are mostly swift and relaxed. There is no engine noise and the single-speed transmission exceeds expectations in terms of power delivery. As compared to its rivals, the I-Pace's sudden power surge could get cumbersome as opposed to E-Tron's more linear one. The same goes for Tesla's Model X too, however, it is still miles better than the Jag in terms of comfortable power delivery.

Acceleration

The acceleration of the Audi E-Tron is quite identical to all other electric cars. It’s crisp, sharp and sudden, all at the same time, or so it feels. Flooring the pedal down-flat will push the E-Tron through the 60MPH barrier in 5.5 seconds. If that's still considered acceptable, its 16-second quarter-mile timing is just depressingly slow. 

While it may not be the best figures you've heard in this segment, let us tell you that the E-Tron was made to offer luxury at its best. Its power delivery prioritizes comfort and linear traits first. If you need a sporty engine, the E-Tron is not what you should be looking at in that case.

Models	Audi e-tron Premium Plus with Quattro	Tesla Model X AWD	Jaguar I-Pace S
0-60 MPH	5.5	4.7	4.5
Quarter mile	16 seconds	11.28 seconds	12.9 seconds
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)	-	-	-

In terms of the competition, the Jaguar I-Pace is the fastest of the lot with its 4.5-second timing while the Tesla Model X comes second with a narrow margin. The quarter-mile figures of the Tesla are the most impressive with a time of 11.28 seconds to reach the figure while the Jag comes a close second with 12.9 seconds. 

Ride and Handling

Like in other Audis, the E-Tron also flaunts a drive select framework with various modes that go up from "comfort" up till "dynamic". The "Comfort" mode, as you can already guess, tunes the suspension towards the softer side and also suppresses a few extra horses under the hood. As you move towards the dynamic mode, the E-Tron gets more aggressive with throttle responses and the suspension gets stiff in order to minimize body-roll. As much as the latter encourages spirited driving, you would be spending most of the time in Comfort mode as it offers a better experience out of the two. There is even an off-road mode on offer which makes the best use of Audi's Quattro AWD in tackling some unpleasant terrains. 

At speeds, the E-Tron maintains a poise of its own. Overtaking punch is great but it isn't intimidating like the Jaguar I-Pace or Model X. The standard air suspension is superb in absorbing up bumps and undulations. In dynamic mode, the suspension looks to be quite stiff and taut but can be changed as per individual settings. The steering of the E-Tron will feel better than what most people would expect of a big SUV. The responsiveness is quick, precise and gives a lot of feel and feedback, almost as if it were a hatchback. It isn’t overly responsive or quick but has the right balance overall.

Braking

In the braking department, the E-Tron comes stacked with all the modern tech that one expects from a vehicle of this segment. The Brakes are big and solid and don’t offer the jolt that you normally associate with electric cars of the same class. The brakes offer good bite, feel and feedback on operation and don’t feel nerve-wracking.

In terms of numbers, Audi E-Tron is amongst the heaviest in the segment with the scales crossing way over five-and-a-half thousand pounds. While its 14.8-inch front rotors are amongst the biggest in the segment, let's not forget that they are supposed to stop the heaviest car of this segment too. While we don't have the exact details of the stopping distance, we believe that the increased weight could be well-compensated by the bigger rotors too. 

Model	Audi E-Tron Premium Plus with Quattro	Tesla Model X AWD	Jaguar I-Pace S
Brake Front (in.)	14.8	N/A	13.8
Brake Rear (in.)	13.8	N/A	12.8
Curb Weight (lbs.)	5643	5421	4784
70-0 MPH (ft.)	N/A	N/A	N/A

The 2019 Audi E-Tron also comes with Regenerative braking that can be adjusted to different levels, depending on the choice of the driver. This system not only charges the battery while driving but also aids in the overall braking performance of the vehicle. The amount of interference from the system, however, can be altered by the driver.

The biggest grievances that owners have about electric cars is the range or the lack of it. Fortunately, that won’t be an issue in the all-new 2019 Audi E-Tron. Audi promises a massive 248.5 mile of range on a full charge thanks to clever technologies like Regenerative Braking and lightweight chassis and weight-saving measures.

For the charging bit, Audi says that the battery will be as good as new, even after 6 years of operation and will degrade to just 70% over the years. The E-Tron can charge under 9 hours on a Level 2 Charging line while when connected to a Level 3 system, the E-Tron can charge up to 80% in under 30 minutes. While the overall range figures might not be impressive, this feat certainly attracts needles in the E-Tron's favors.

Model	Audi E-Tron Premium Plus with Quattro	Tesla Model X AWD	Jaguar I-Pace S
MPGe (city)	N/A	N/A	76
MPGe (highway)	N/A	N/A	80
MPGe (combined)	N/A	N/A	72
Range(Miles)	248.5	295	298

Talking about the competition, the Jaguar I-pace offers the maximum range, with a claimed mileage of 298 miles while the Tesla Model X, rakes in an impressive 295 miles. The Audi delivers the least of the lot but compensates for the same with its quick charging facility and best-in-class warranty as well.

Inside the car it's rolling with Audi's latest generation of MMI, ditching the traditional rotary controller in exchange for a dual-touchscreen layout-Cnet.com

Layout, Seating and Comfort

The Interior layout of the 2019 Audi E-Tron ranks amongst the best interiors in the segment and is a derivative of the flagship Audi Q8's. To some extent, the A8 too. The layout is futuristic and has five screens on the front. Talk about technology! The Center Console houses two screens, the meter console houses Audi’s Virtual Cockpit System while two screens sit on the door sides that serve as virtual mirrors.

In terms of seating, the E-Tron can seat five people at its best. Space for the rear passengers may not be the best when pitted against the competition. The headroom especially could trouble the taller passengers. Shoulder room is the best in class in the second row and so is the legroom. The flat floor further adds to the space and comfort for the middle passenger at the rear bench.

In terms of fit and finish, the Seats and most part of the dash are all covered in leather. If it is the top-trim that you picked, then Valcona-leather to be specific is the one that'll caress your eyes inside. The wide adjustability traits matched with heating and ventilation functions further enhance the experience inside the cabin. If you're also worried about the ambient lighting or mood settings then fret not, as Audi's got that covered too. That's not it, you also get an air-ionizer that ensures cleanliness not just inside the cabin but your body too. It regulates the fragrance inside the cabin as well.

Model	Audi E-Tron Premium Plus with Quattro	Tesla Model X AWD	Jaguar I-Pace S
Passenger capacity	5	7	5
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	39.8/58.6/40.8	41.7/60.7/41.2	39.9/57.6/40.9
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	38.6/57.2/39.1	40.9/56.8/38.4	38.1/54.6/35.0
Third (Head/Shoulder/Leg)(In.)	-	37.1/40.0/32.7	-

Almost all the vehicles in the E-Tron's segment are equally matched with it, if not better. Though the Audi loses this competition in terms of rear-seat space, you won't really feel it inside, thanks to the wide opening windows that divulge an airy feel to the cabin. The Jaguar I-Pace, however, is even worse in this department with the least space in the segment. The Tesla emerges as a champ in this comparison, hands down. Not only does it offer the maximum space on the second bench, but it also offers a third row which is scarce in the electric-premium crossover segment.

Towing and Cargo Capacity

The 2019 Audi E-Tron, impresses with the cargo space it offers as standard. The 28.5 cubic feet of space is among the largest in its segment. What adds to this impressive space is the fact that the rear seats fold flat in a 60/40 manner and liberates an even higher amount of space for adding that extra amount of luggage.

Further sweetening the experience, the E-Tron's tailgate rises high and wide enabling easier loading/unloading of luggage. However, a few rivals such as the Tesla Model X offer a better cargo loading experience due to the low-set floor. If you're Audi is fitted with the air suspension system, then you don't have to worry about it. Being true to its DNA as an utilitarian, the E-Tron can tow up to 4,000 lbs of load behind it, thus, further encouraging you to go for longer trips. 

Model	Audi E-Tron Premium Plus with Quattro	Tesla Model X AWD	Jaguar I-Pace S
Cargo Volume (ft.3)	28.5	26.0	25.3
Towing Capacity	4000lbs.	5000lbs.	5290lbs.

In terms of cargo capacity, it’s the Audi that outshines the competition here. The Tesla Model X stands closest to the Audi and just inches ahead of the Jag by an incredibly small margin for the second place. Towing Capacity is where the Jag uses its Land Rover DNA, with the max towing capacity in the segment. The Tesla Model X comes in a close second. The E-Tron is overshadowed by the competition in terms of towing capabilities.

Infotainment System

The 2019 E-Tron is a future-ready SUV inside out, from Audi. In terms of the Infotainment and the Interiors, they have outdone themselves in providing the best tech to their only electric SUV. The primary entertaining duty has been undertaken by a 10.1-inch High-def touchscreen infotainment system developed by Nvidia - a famous graphics processor company.

If you've been in any other recently launched Audi(s), then you must be familiar with the touch and feel of the unit. It is fluid in nature and the picture quality is crisp. There is haptic feedback on touching the options, however, this could get distracting while interacting with, while driving. While most of the features are mentioned below, this touchscreen unit is also where you customize each and every mechanical setting of the car. Selecting drive modes (as shown above) is one among them.

The 5 screens inside the Audi have a purpose of their own and the Audi Virtual cockpit that sits in place of the meter console is a modern marvel of its own. Following are the features of the system:

• B&O 3D Sound System
• Audi Connect with Online Services and Wireless Charging
• Audi Pre Sense City and Rear
• Front and Rear USB outlets
• Audi Adaptive Cruise Control
• Heads Up Display with Integrated e-Toll collection system
• MMI Navigation Plus, Radio with Audi Connect and 10.1” Touch Screen system
• SiriusXM Satellite Radio with Top View Camera
• Traffic Sign recognition with Virtual Cockpit Plus
• Charging Cables with Industrial Connector NEMA 14-50

Interior Features

The list of features on offer on the inside of the 2019 Audi E-Tron is as expansive as its Infotainment features. These are some of the few highlights on the inside of the Audi E-Tron

• Auto-Dimming Inside RVM with digital compass
• Front center armrest with full leather package for the interiors
• Dark Brown Walnut Wood Inlays
• Virtual Exterior Mirrors Screen on the inside
• Panoramic Sunroof
• LED Interior Lighting package
• Leather Wrapped 4 Spoke Multifunction Steering wheel with electric adjust
• Four-Zone Auto Climate Control

The Audi e-tron may be unimaginative, it may not stand out from the crowd, but that’s the point-Topgear.com

Design and Dimensions

People were not wrong in thinking about the E-Tron as an SUV looking like the other stablemates of Audi in the pre-production runs. But as it turns out, they were. The 2019 Audi E-Tron hardly draws resemblance from its other family SUV’s and is an entirely new design. It looks modern and high-tech with its sharp lines and cool features like the Matrix LED Headlights.

The air intakes of the E-Tron’s 'Single frame' grille, also open and close in two stages depending on the car's cooling needs. Even the wheels have been aerodynamically designed to reduce the coefficient of drag and improve aerodynamic efficiency. The wheel arches have been beautifully sculpted out. Unlike most electric cars, the wheels on Audi have been completely exposed. In fact, if you're more into the cosmetic front of the car, then these big wheel arches encourage you to get even bigger wheels for the E-Tron.

Model	Audi E-Tron Premium Plus with Quattro	Tesla Model X AWD	Jaguar I-Pace S
Curb weight (lbs.)	5643	5421	4784
Length(in)	193	198.3	184.3
Width(in)	76.3	81.5	74.6
Height(in)	65.5	66.0	61.3
Ground clearance (in)	6.9	5.4	5.6
Wheelbase (in)	115.1	116.7	117.7

Speaking of the dimensions, the 2019 Audi E-Tron sits in the middle of the pack in terms of length, width, and height. While dimensions give it an edge in parking in tight spaces, it also translates to Audi’s average space on the inside. One area where Audi has a clear advantage is in terms of ground clearance. The massive 6.9-inch of clearance makes the Audi one of the most potent SUV’s to be taken off-road or move with the most of peace of mind over speed humps.

Exterior Features

• 20” 5-Spoke design wheels with all-season tires
• Aluminum roof rails
• Aluminum Trim around exterior windows
• LED Headlights
• Power Adjustable, Power Folding, Auto-Dimming, Heated Exterior Side Mirrors with Memory
• Heat Insulating Glass
• Audi Adaptive Air Suspension

Based on Volkswagen's trusted MLB-Evo platform, let's not forget that the E-Tron maybe a new baby in the family, but it is also one of the most advanced personalities here. This platform has been seen in many of its siblings as well and it has proven its worth every time it was pitted against the crash tests. Keeping the spirits high, the E-Tron has been rated as one of the safest cars according to IIHS. The IIHS has awarded the 2019 E-Tron with maximum marks in all parameters. It has also been given the title " 2019 Top Safety Pick+" which is just extra-ordinary.

The 2019 Audi E-Tron boasts of a lot of advanced and high tech features that ensure the safety of its passengers. It gets a segment-first, digital exterior rearview mirrors that can be seen via the small screen near the AC vents on both sides of the front. Other safety features that can be found inside the 2019 Audi E-Tron SUV include:

• Audi Pre-sense Rear and City
• Top View Camera
• Cruise Control with Coast, Resume, Accelerate feature
• Audi Side Assist with Vehicle Exit Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Audi connect Care assistance and security services
• Audi Advanced key with Keyless start, stop and entry
• Driver and Front Passenger Airbags including knee airbags
• ISOFIX child seat mounting and Top Tether anchorage point for outer rear seats
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Audi E-Tron vs. Jaguar I-Pace

The Jaguar I-Pace, is the first effort from Jaguar in terms of an Eco-Friendly vehicle and boy have they pulled out a stunner. The I Pace has a typical British Design character and offers great luxury, both on the exteriors and the Interiors. In terms of performance as well, it’s no slouch and beats the E-Tron. The Audi, on the other hand, beats the Jag in terms of the Build Quality, creature comfort, cargo space and charging ability. If a well built and a striking looking SUV is what you are after, the E-Tron will be the one to go for.

Audi E-Tron vs. Tesla Model X

The Audi E-Tron is Audi’s way of telling that the future has arrived. It goes like a stabbed rat and when coupled with Audi’s Quattro system and you got yourself a potent off-roader in your hands. The Audi, also comes loaded with plenty of features and a well-built cabin. Tesla's Model X, on the other hand, takes performance to a whole new level. In terms of Creature comforts and uniqueness, however, the Audi E-Tron takes the lead with its space-age tech and ultra-luxurious cabin as well. Tesla may be struggling with the build quality of its cars but in terms of future tech, it’s still the Tesla that shines brighter.

The 2019 Audi E-Tron is Audi’s first contender in the "battle of the Electrics" and it certainly is one worthy rival for the class. It boasts of cutting edge technologies like Virtual Exterior Mirrors, matrix LED Headlights, Virtual Cockpit, and super-fast charging abilities. The E-Tron is practical as well, with its big cargo capacity and the Quattro system backed by big ground clearance, making it a suitable choice for going on the road less taken. With over 248 miles of range, space-age features, and sturdy build quality, the 2019 Audi E-Tron does present itself as a potential threat to the current crop of Gas-powered cars and we can surely say, Electric has gone Audi.

FAQs

How fast is the Audi E-Tron?

The E-Tron takes 5.5 seconds to clear the 60 MPH mark from a standstill and 16 seconds to cover the quarter-mile. For more information on specs, please follow this link.

Is the Audi E-Tron AWD?

Yes, both the trims under the E-Tron's badge have been blessed with Audi's legendary Quattro All-Wheel-Drive system.

Will the E-Tron come with a charger?

Yes, the E-Tron is accompanied by a Dual-Voltage Home charger, the power of which is rated as 1.2 kW.

How long does the E-Tron take to charge?

With the home charger, the E-Tron takes upto 10 hours in order to be fully charged. If you go to the 150 kW high charging station, then the E-Tron manages to reach 80% from nill under 30 minutes.

Does the E-Tron come with a warranty?

The E-Tron is backed by a 4-year/50,000 mile warranty. The powertrain/battery is covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles whichever is earlier. For more information, please head over to the features tab on top of this page.