2022 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron Review

The 2022 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron is an all-new model. The all-electric two-row SUV seats five and slots into the spectrum of electric SUVs alongside competitors like the Volvo C40 Recharge, Volkswagen ID.4 and Hyundai Ioniq 5. However, it's this SUV's lower height (compared to a standard Q4 e-tron) and fastback roofline that set it apart with a striking, aggressive silhouette.

Starting a little under $54,000, the Sportback comes with a higher asking price than the standard Q4 e-tron. But its cost is not out of alignment with its primary competition. And while many people find the Sportback's rakish profile easy on the eyes, it means a compromise for passengers in the form of less headroom and rear legroom. Still, there's enough space for luggage to easily manage weekend trips.

Every Q4 Sportback e-tron is all-wheel-drive. With a modest 295 horsepower from its twin electric motors, the Q4 Sportback isn't the rocketship that some EVs are, but it provides enough thrust to easily merge with traffic. In our testing, the mechanically identical Q4 50 e-tron accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The EPA puts the Sportback's range at 241 miles, which is typical for the segment and enough to be practical in daily use.

Inside, according to Audi, the Q4 Sportback e-tron looks and feels like the future. There's a 10.1-inch centrally mounted infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. But it's the design, materials and packaging that make the Q4 look and feel rich in tech-laden luxury. An available augmented-reality head-up display is capable of showing information from the SUV's driver assist and navigation features in the driver's line of sight. If you're interested in a thoroughly modern electric SUV that conveys Audi's characteristic exterior style and interior design, the Q4 Sportback e-tron is worth a look.