2023 Audi e-tron S Sportback Review

We knew Audi was onto something when it debuted the e-tron SUV back in 2019. With sensible range estimates, comfort galore, and plenty of technology, it proved a solid foundation to launch more models and variants. For drivers with a hunger for more performance, the e-tron S was introduced last year. While the standard e-tron comes with two electric motors, the e-tron S has three. One motor drives the front wheels and the other two each power a rear wheel. Combined, they produce a stout 496 horsepower compared to the regular e-tron's maximum of 402 hp.

The 2023 Audi e-tron S Sportback is essentially the same, but it adopts a tapering rear roofline for a sportier appearance. We typically steer people away from today's "coupe-like" SUVs because they trade interior space for their sporty silhouettes, but the 2023 Audi e-tron S Sportback makes far fewer sacrifices. Its interior is almost as spacious and accommodating as the standard e-tron's, both in terms of rear passengers and cargo. Add in the standard adaptive air suspension that's tuned for sporty handling, and the Sportback is even more appealing.

There is a catch, though, and it's the cost. With a starting price above $90,000, the e-tron S Sportback is expensive for the class. That would be less of an issue if it held a significant advantage over rivals, but that's not the case. As good as it is, the e-tron S Sportback falls short of the mark set by our class-favorite BMW iX. There's also Audi's own Q4 e-tron and the Mercedes-Benz EQB that are much more affordable and deliver more range.

The 2023 Audi e-tron S Sportback comes with all-wheel drive and three electric motors good for a combined power output of 429 horsepower and 596 lb-ft of torque, with a temporary boost mode to 496 hp and 717 lb-ft. Audi sells this electric SUV in Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels. Range estimates vary from 185 miles to 212 miles depending on configuration.