(July 6, 2021) Audi's newest electric model to reach U.S. showrooms late this year is its most mainstream yet. The Q4 e-tron and its Sportback stablemate are smaller and more affordable than the e-tron SUV and e-tron GT sedan, being based on the same MEB platform as the VW ID.4 electric crossover. Audi says the Q4 e-tron will start at around $45,000 when it goes on sale.
      
The Q4 designation suggests that this new EV will slot in between the Q3 and Q5 crossovers, and indeed, it's 180.7 inches long, neatly fitting in between the two in terms of its exterior footprint. Audi says that the Q4's long wheelbase and floor-mounted battery pack allows for a similar amount of rear-seat space inside as the Q5. The Q4 e-tron Sportback will compromise some cargo space for its more rakish silhouette, although it's also more aerodynamic than the square back version.

The base powertrain setup in he base 40 consists of a single 201-hp electric motor and rear-wheel drive. That's the same setup that's found in the mechanically similar Volkswagen ID.4, which can reach 60 mph in 7.6 seconds. With an electric motor powering each axle, the more powerful all-wheel drive Q4 e-tron 50 and Q4 e-tron Sportback 50 make 295 horsepower. The result is a claimed zero-to-60-time of 6.2 seconds.

The battery pack is said to deliver up to 300 miles of driving range per charge. The Q4 e-tron models will go up against other compact electric SUVs such as the Tesla Model Y and the Volvo XC40 Recharge when they go on sale.

"Both the SUV and Sportback variants bring striking Audi design, impressive packaging, and attractive price points to a new segment of the market. Rapid charging capability and over 300 emission-free miles on a single charge will help ensure our transition from ICE to electric power is a smooth one for our customers," said Andrew Doyle, director of Audi UK.