Audi expands Q4 e-tron lineup with new entry-level version

Audi is adding another version of its Q4 e-tron. The Q4 40 e-tron comes in regular and Sportback versions and offers the middle battery option in the lineup, thus offering a few more kilometers on a single charge than the Q4 35 e-tron version.

The new Q4 40 e-tron packs a larger 63 kWh battery (59 kWh net) - in the first generation that battery was inside the 35 version. It's 18 kWh less than the original 40 and the current Q4 45 e-tron but 7 kWh more than the base Q4 35 e-tron. The capacity translates to a range of up to 256 miles for the Q4 e-tron and 263 miles for the Sportback version, according to WLTP standards.

The Q4 40 e-tron supports DC fast charging up to 165 kW. Under ideal conditions, it can replenish the battery from 10 to 80% in approximately 24 minutes. This translates to adding up to 93 miles of range in just ten minutes.

The new Q4 40 is powered by a single, rear-mounted 150 kW electric motor, just like its namesake in the previous generation. The 25 kW power bump over the Q4 35 version means the 0 to 62 mph sprint now takes 8.1 seconds instead of 9 seconds. That's hardly a noticeable difference, but it does make the smallest Audi crossover a bit more fun to drive. Top speed remains limited to 99 mph.

Beyond the powertrain upgrade, Audi has focused on the user experience. The Q4 40 e-tron now features manual battery preconditioning. Drivers can manually activate battery heating through the MMI system before arriving at a charging station. The MMI display shows the available kW for fast charging and how much additional charging power is available, thanks to the preconditioning.

Maintenance has also been streamlined with the new predictive maintenance reminder. Accessible through the myAudi app, this feature provides a clear overview of the vehicle's maintenance needs. Color-coded indicators display the status of components like brake pads, the 12-volt battery, and even the first-aid kit.

The Q4 40 e-tron also benefits from improved connectivity. The Audi application store offers a growing selection of apps for news, podcasts, sports, games, videos, and entertainment. Navigation features have been enhanced with precise charging stop planning, and filters have been added for desired charge levels and specific charging providers. The smartphone interface seamlessly integrates smartphone content with the MMI display, supporting navigation, telephony, music, and select third-party apps wirelessly or via USB-C.

As expected, the most significant connectivity upgrade is the integration of ChatGPT. The AI chatbot improves the voice control system, allowing drivers to manage infotainment, navigation, and climate settings and even ask everyday questions using natural language.

The Audi Q4 40 e-tron starts at $51,210, while the Q4 Sportback 40 e-tron starts at $53,430. Both models come standard with Audi MMI navigation plus, Audi Connect navigation & infotainment, the 10.25-inch Audi virtual cockpit, an electric tailgate, and heated front seats. Orders for both versions open in mid-February.

The new model offers a better range, a bit more power, and more features than the cheapest 35 at only $555 premium. That small price difference between the models suggests the Q4 35 e-tron wasn't really selling, and Audi had no choice but to make it a bit more appealing. The controversial bit is that it has 16 kWh less capacity than the Q4 40 e-tron from 2023 which did cost over $1,100 less than the new model. It's really hard to call it progress.

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