Audi e-tron Sportback 50 quattro

Overview

The 2022 Audi e-tron Sportback 50 quattro, which concluded production in 2022, is a premium electric coupe-SUV known for its sleek design and Audi's hallmark build quality. As an entry-level all-wheel-drive variant within the Sportback lineup, it combined SUV practicality with a sportier, more elegant silhouette. This stylish EV offered a sophisticated electric motoring experience, with used models in Europe typically priced around €29,800. It represented a compelling option for those seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and zero-emission driving, manufactured in locations including Belgium and China.

What's New for 2022?

For its final model year in 2022, the Audi e-tron Sportback 50 quattro saw minimal significant changes, essentially serving as a continuation of the previous year's well-regarded package. Audi was focusing on the upcoming Q8 e-tron refresh, so the 2022 model was more about refining an existing formula. Any updates likely involved minor software enhancements or slight adjustments to equipment packages available in the European market, ensuring it remained a competitive, albeit familiar, choice in the premium EV segment before its discontinuation.

Design & Exterior

The e-tron Sportback 50 quattro turns heads with its distinctive coupe-SUV silhouette, featuring a gracefully sloping roofline that lends it a more dynamic and athletic presence than the standard e-tron SUV. Audi's signature design cues are evident, including the prominent Singleframe grille (adapted for EV cooling needs) and sophisticated LED lighting at both front and rear. Key dimensions are substantial: 4901 mm in length, 1935 mm in width (excluding mirrors), and 1616 mm in height. The 50 quattro trim typically featured stylish alloy wheels, enhancing its premium road presence.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the e-tron Sportback 50 quattro boasts a cabin synonymous with Audi: exceptional build quality, luxurious materials, and a cutting-edge design. Dominating the dashboard is Audi's MMI touch response system with dual screens, complemented by the standard Virtual Cockpit display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensure seamless smartphone integration. While front passenger space is ample, rear headroom is slightly compromised by the stylish roof. Cargo versatility is strong, with 615 litres of boot space, expanding to 1655 litres with seats folded, plus a useful 60-litre frunk.

Performance & Driving Experience

The e-tron Sportback 50 quattro delivers smooth and assured performance from its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, featuring Induction Motors at both front and rear axles. This setup produces a combined 230 kW of power and 540 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in a brisk 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h. The driving experience is characterized by refinement and comfort, with standard adaptive air suspension effortlessly absorbing road imperfections. Its regenerative braking system is effective, offering various modes to enhance efficiency.

Range, Battery & Charging

Equipped with a 64.7 kWh usable battery capacity (71 kWh nominal), the e-tron Sportback 50 quattro offers a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of approximately 278 km. Its energy efficiency is rated at around 4.3 km/kWh. For charging, it supports AC charging up to 11 kW as standard, with an optional 22 kW on-board charger available. DC fast charging via its CCS Type 2 port can reach a maximum of 120 kW on its 400V architecture, allowing for rapid top-ups on longer journeys across Europe.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is a cornerstone for Audi, and the e-tron Sportback 50 quattro achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. Standard driver-assistance systems typically included Audi Pre Sense front (collision mitigation) and lane departure warning. European models often offered an array of optional advanced features such as adaptive cruise assist, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping for semi-autonomous driving, side assist (blind-spot monitoring), and a 360-degree camera system, enhancing both safety and convenience for the driver.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

In Europe, new Audi e-tron Sportback 50 quattro models typically came with a 2-year unlimited mileage vehicle warranty, extendable at extra cost. The crucial high-voltage battery was covered by a separate 8-year or 160,000 km warranty, whichever came first, guaranteeing at least 70% of its original usable capacity. Electric vehicles like the e-tron generally require less maintenance than their internal combustion engine counterparts due to fewer moving parts. Overall reliability for the e-tron range has been solid, offering peace of mind to owners.