Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron 35

Overview

The 2023 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron 35 was Audi's stylish entry into the premium compact electric SUV coupe market. This now-discontinued model offered a sleeker take on the regular Q4, prioritizing looks and a premium feel. As the entry-level '35' trim, it featured rear-wheel drive and a smaller battery, aiming for urban efficiency. It represented a more accessible gateway to Audi's e-tron family, with used examples fetching around €26,880 in the European market. Its coupe-like roofline made it a head-turner, blending practicality with a dash of sporty design, appealing to fashion-conscious buyers.

What's New for 2023?

For its final model year before discontinuation in 2023, the Q4 Sportback e-tron 35 benefited from software enhancements rolled out across the Q4 range. This included improved thermal management for more consistent DC fast charging, supporting its 118 kW peak. Additionally, Audi introduced over-the-air (OTA) update capability and the 'functions on demand' feature, allowing customers to activate certain features post-purchase. These refinements aimed to keep the entry-level Sportback competitive with the latest tech right up until production ceased, polishing its appeal in its last year on the market.

Design & Exterior

The Q4 Sportback e-tron 35 really turns heads with its distinctive coupe-like roofline, giving it a much sportier and more dynamic profile than its standard SUV sibling. Up front, the signature Audi Singleframe grille is boldly presented, adapted for EV aesthetics, and flanked by sharp LED headlights. This specific '35' trim maintained a sleek look, riding on smart alloy wheels. Dimensionally, it measures 4588 mm in length, 1865 mm in width (excluding mirrors), and 1614 mm in height, contributing to its athletic and well-proportioned stance on the road.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the Q4 Sportback e-tron 35 delivers Audi's renowned high-quality cabin experience, featuring a driver-centric layout and premium materials. Standard tech includes Audi's Virtual Cockpit and a central MMI touch display, typically 10.1 inches, with seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. It comfortably seats five, though the sloping roofline slightly reduces rear headroom. Boot space is impressive at 535 litres, expanding to a very generous 1460 litres with the rear seats folded down. However, this model does not feature a front trunk (frunk) for additional storage.

Performance & Driving Experience

The Q4 Sportback e-tron 35 isn't aiming to be a drag racer, but its 125 kW (170 PS) Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor delivers a brisk 310 Nm of torque to the rear wheels. This setup allows for a 0-100 km/h sprint in a respectable 9.0 seconds and a top speed of 160 km/h. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provides a balanced and engaging driving experience, typical of Audi, with a focus on smooth power delivery and a comfortable ride. Regenerative braking is well-implemented, helping to maximize efficiency during daily commutes.

Range, Battery & Charging

Equipped with a 52 kWh usable battery pack, the Q4 Sportback e-tron 35 offers a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range estimate of around 294 km. Its energy efficiency is rated at 5.65 km/kWh. For AC charging via its CCS Type 2 port, the standard 7.2 kW on-board charger can fully replenish the battery in approximately 8 hours. When it comes to DC fast charging, it can accept up to 118 kW, enabling a 10-80% charge in about 30-35 minutes under optimal conditions, making longer journeys feasible.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is paramount in the Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron 35, which benefits from the Q4 e-tron range's 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Standard features on this trim typically include Audi Pre Sense Front with emergency braking and pedestrian/cyclist detection, alongside lane departure warning. While these provide a solid foundation, many desirable advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system were often part of optional packages, so individual vehicle specifications may vary. It also scored a 5-star NHTSA rating.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Audi's warranty for the Q4 Sportback e-tron 35 in Europe typically includes a 2-year unlimited mileage vehicle warranty, with some markets extending this. The critical high-voltage battery is covered for 8 years or 160,000 km, whichever comes first, with a guarantee of at least 70% capacity retention. As an EV, maintenance requirements are lower than combustion engine cars, primarily involving checks on brakes, tyres, and cabin filters. Specific complimentary maintenance plans vary by country, but Audi’s e-tron models are generally regarded for their solid build and reliability.