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. There's no shortage of poke in any Q4 e-tron, even the '45' model delivering power in a smooth, yet instantaneous fashion. Audi now also offers the Q4 45 e-tron with quattro four-wheel-drive, which makes acceleration feel even secure on wet surfaces but because of the smooth power delivery you have to be quite rough with the throttle to extract any wheelspin even in the rear-wheel drive model.

While even the quickest Q4 e-tron can’t keep pace with a Tesla Model Y Long Range, acceleration is still pretty swift. The new 55 e-tron quattro model offers a 0-62mph time of just 5.4 seconds and it responds strongly to throttle inputs at any speed. The top speed is now 112mph for all models and the 55 version sailed up to this limit with ease in our tests on a derestricted German autobahn.

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. The latest updates in 2024 brought retuned suspension and steering which has sharpened the driving experience, reducing the amount of roll in corners. The Q4 still isn't a thrilling car to drive, it's considerable strengths resting very much in the comfort department, but it's smooth and composed on twisty roads, especially with quattro traction to launch out of corners with.  

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. Switching to Dynamic mode gives a sharper throttle response and makes the car feel more punchy off the line and at higher speeds. There are also Efficiency and Range modes to use when you're really trying to eke out those extra miles from the battery. Range limits the speed to 55mph, however, so it really going to be an emergency measure for most drivers.  

S line and Black Edition models sit 15mm lower than the standard Q4 on their sports suspension. We found this setup pretty uncomfortable on longer stints in combination with the larger wheels on these up-spec cars so even though it improves the looks, we'd give it a miss and stick with the standard suspension.