Audi e-tron 2020: prices and specs revealed for 50, 55 and S models

In a similar vein to its petrol and diesel-engined cars, Audi is launching a high-performance 'S' version of the e-tron and e-tron Sportback electric SUVs. Order books opened in summer 2020, with UK pricing confirmed at £87,000 for the e-tron S and £88,700 for the e-tron Sportback S (pictured).

The cars' three-motor electric drivetrain puts out 496bhp. In addition to its healthy power output, the e-tron S gets a clever electronic torque-vectoring system. This varies the amount of grunt being sent to each wheel automatically, so as to maximise grip and improve the car's handling. The 0-62mph and top-speed figures for the e-tron S and e-tron Sportback S are identical, at 4.5 seconds and 130mph respectively.

Audi says the S version of the e-tron models features a much more rearward-biased version of the brand's quattro four-wheel-drive setup than the 50 and 55 drivetrains (detailed below), making the S feel sportier and more agile. The S models also come with more responsive sports steering as standard.

The front-axle motor of the S is the same as the rear-axle motor of the other two versions, while on its rear axle, the S has two more motors, contributing to that near-500bhp total power figure. Battery capacity for the S is the same as for the 55, at 95kWh, while in normal driving only the two motors on the rear axle are used, with the front one activating if extra power is needed for greater acceleration or enhanced grip. 

The e-tron S gets 20-inch alloys as standard, with larger choices up to 22 inches available as an option. Wider wheelarches, orange-painted brake callipers and 'S' badging also serve to set it apart from the 50 and 55 versions. The same 150kW rapid charging capability as the other e-tron models is offered here.

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Audi e-tron 50 and Audi e-tron Sportback 55 prices, specifications and range

The standard e-tron is offered either in 'e-tron 50 quattro' form (with a standard SUV-style body, 71kWh battery and 186-mile driving range) or as the 'e-tron Sportback 55 quattro' (with a coupe-SUV body, 95kWh battery and 216-mile driving range). Both get dual electric motors for a total output of 308bhp and all-wheel drive.

For the e-tron 50, prices start at just under £60,000 for the entry-level Technik trim. Sport, S line, Black Edition and Vorsprung specifications are also offered, topping out at £81,900. The e-tron Sportback 55 is available in S Line and Launch Edition spec. The price breakdown for the full range is as follows:

The e-tron Technik features Audi's MMI Navigation Plus infotainment system plus its Virtual Cockpit digital dashboard display, along with LED headlights, leather upholstery and 20-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels.

Sport specification adds wireless charging, heated front seats, Matrix LED headlights and 21-inch alloys, while the S line features sports-tuned air suspension, a more distinctively contoured bumper, better airflow over the body, a rear spoiler and diffuser, plus S line logos inside and out. 

Black Edition cars are based on S line trim, but add unique 21-inch wheels, a black styling pack and a three-spoke steering wheel.

Top-spec Vorsprung e-tron models add to the Black Edition's kit, with 22-inch alloy wheels, LED matrix headlights, 'super sport' seats and a Bang & Olufsen sound system

Technical upgrades applied to the e-tron for 2020 included a reduction in energy losses from the regenerative braking system and more efficient operation of the electric motors, with the front motor disengaging under light load (such as when cruising on the motorway) in order to reduce energy consumption. Energy recovery while coasting was also improved.