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The 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron builds upon its debut year with a significant addition: a new rear-wheel-drive Q4 40 e-tron that extends range to 265 miles and lowers the entry price[1]. Starting at $49,800, Audi’s compact electric SUV delivers a refined, familiar driving experience that eases the transition for first-time EV buyers—though MotorTrend notes Audi essentially built it as “a transitional vehicle before its next-generation EVs arrive”[2]. After extended time with this electric crossover, the Q4 proves approachable but not segment-leading, with charging speeds and acceleration lagging quicker rivals like the Tesla Model Y and Genesis GV60[1].
Why This Review Matters
The compact electric luxury SUV segment expanded rapidly in 2023, with buyers now choosing between established players and newcomers. The Q4 e-tron competes directly against the Tesla Model Y, Genesis GV60, Lexus RZ, Mercedes-Benz EQB, and platform-mate Volkswagen ID.4[1]. Understanding where this Audi excels and falls short helps buyers determine whether a used 2023 model—now available starting around $24,000-$32,000[1]—represents good value versus newer competitors with longer range and faster charging capabilities.
Specifications Overview
| Category | Q4 40 e-tron (New for 2023) | Q4 50 e-tron quattro |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Single rear motor[1] | Dual motors (AWD)[1] |
| Horsepower | 201 hp[1] | 295 hp[1] |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive[1] | All-wheel drive (quattro)[1] |
| Battery Capacity | 82 kWh[1] | 82 kWh[1] |
| EPA Range | 265 miles[1] | 236 miles[1] |
| 0-60 mph (Edmunds tested) | Not tested | 5.7 seconds[1] |
| DC Fast Charging Rate | 150 kW[1] | 150 kW[1] |
| Charge Time (5-80%, DC Fast) | 36 minutes[1] | 36 minutes[1] |
| Charge Time (Full, 240V) | 9 hours[1] | 9 hours[1] |
| Cargo Volume | 24.8 cu ft[1] | 24.8 cu ft[1] |
| Original MSRP | From $49,800[1] | From ~$51,000+[1] |
The Q4 e-tron shares its MEB platform with the Volkswagen ID.4, though Audi differentiates with superior interior quality, a larger 11.6-inch center infotainment display (new for 2023), and S line exterior styling now standard on the Q4 50 e-tron[1].
Design and Practicality
The Q4 e-tron drives and looks like a conventional gasoline-powered SUV, which makes the switch to electric less jarring for first-time EV buyers[1]. Green Car Reports found the road feel and suspension tuning “more sure-footed than those of the Genesis GV60” during extended testing, and Audi did a remarkable job quieting the cabin—even for an EV, wind noise from the door mirrors was the loudest sound at highway speeds[3].
Interior design elevates the look and feel compared to the ID.4, though certain elements fall short of expectations. Edmunds notes that parts like “the plastic on the center console and wood trim pieces look a bit low-budget” for the price[1]. The infotainment touchscreen—now larger at 11.6 inches for 2023—offers better functionality than the Volkswagen sibling but requires a learning curve[1].
Rear passenger space and cargo capacity compare favorably to larger EVs. For families with child seats, the LATCH covers slide up out of the way rather than pop out—a thoughtful detail that prevents losing parts[1]. Three top tether anchors on the back of each seat allow installation in any position[1].
Where the Q4 disappoints is ride quality. Initial impressions suggested admirable bump absorption, but on bumpier highway sections, the ride becomes busy and choppy[1]. The front seats lack lateral support and feel slightly flat, and seat ventilation remains unavailable even as an option[1].
Performance and Efficiency
Edmunds tested the Q4 50 e-tron to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds—quick by most measures but over a second slower than direct competition[1]. MotorTrend acknowledges the Q4 “accelerates with ample power” but criticizes the speed-adaptive steering as “unpredictable” and the brakes as “vague”[2]. Green Car Reports offers a more positive take, noting that Audi “tuned the Q4 to deliver a smoother, less neck-wrenching burst of speed from a stop than some EVs”[3].
The 265-mile range for the Q4 40 e-tron represents a 29-mile improvement over the all-wheel-drive model’s 236-mile estimate[1]. Edmunds notes this range is comparable to the Genesis GV60 but falls well behind the Tesla Model Y Long Range[1].
One significant weakness: regenerative braking is lighter than expected. Even the strongest setting isn’t aggressive enough, and there’s no full one-pedal driving mode—the Q4 won’t come to a complete stop using regen braking alone[1]. MotorTrend agrees the regenerative braking feel “isn’t great” and reflects Audi’s “cautious approach to electrification”[2].
DC fast charging at 150 kW takes approximately 36 minutes to go from 5% to 80% under optimal conditions[1]. By comparison, the Tesla Model Y achieves the same charge in about 27 minutes, and the Genesis GV60 in around 18 minutes[1]. Green Car Reports confirms the Q4 lacks the GV60’s ability to charge at rates of 300 kW or more when the battery is largely depleted[3].
Technology and Features
The 2023 Q4 e-tron comes in two powertrain versions—Q4 40 e-tron (RWD) and Q4 50 e-tron (AWD)—each available in Premium, Premium Plus, and the Q4 50 in Prestige trim[1].
| Feature | Premium | Premium Plus | Prestige (50 only) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original MSRP (40 e-tron) | ~$49,800[1] | ~$57,400[1] | N/A |
| Original MSRP (50 e-tron) | ~$51,000[1] | ~$58,500 | ~$61,000+ |
| Headlights | LED Reflector[4] | LED Reflector[4] | LED Projector[4] |
| IIHS Headlight Rating | Acceptable[4] | Acceptable[4] | Good[4] |
| Infotainment Display | 11.6-inch[1] | 11.6-inch[1] | 11.6-inch[1] |
| Driver Assistance Suite | Optional | Standard | Standard |
| Wireless Charger | Optional | Standard | Standard |
Touch-sensitive steering wheel controls remain a frustration. Edmunds notes they’re “not as easy to use as the old buttons” with frequent fumbled inputs[1]. Green Car Reports agrees that “more than once we changed something we didn’t intend to by accidentally brushing a surface”[3].
The adaptive cruise system impresses—it can sense when a hand is on the wheel without requiring periodic jiggles to prove the driver is engaged[1]. A surround-view camera remains notably absent despite being standard on most competitors[1].
Edmunds recommends the Premium Plus trim as the best value, providing the luxury and high-tech features expected from an Audi SUV without the Prestige model’s premium[1].
Safety Ratings
The 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron maintains IIHS Top Safety Pick+ status with Good ratings across all crashworthiness categories[4].
| IIHS Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front (Driver) | Good[4] |
| Small Overlap Front (Passenger) | Good[4] |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Original) | Good[4] |
| Side Impact (Updated) | Good[4] |
| Roof Strength | Good (5.34 strength-to-weight ratio)[4] |
| Head Restraints & Seats | Good[4] |
| Front Crash Prevention (Vehicle) | Superior[4] |
| Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian Day) | Advanced[4] |
| Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian Night) | Advanced[4] |
| Headlights (Prestige) | Good[4] |
| Headlights (Premium/Premium Plus) | Acceptable[4] |
NHTSA awards the Q4 e-tron 5 stars for frontal barrier crash (driver) and side crash, with 4 stars for frontal (passenger) and rollover not rated[1]. The Q4 avoided collisions in both the 12 mph and 25 mph vehicle-to-vehicle tests[4].
Four recalls affect 2023 models, including issues with the gear position display, charging cable overheating, head curtain air bag, and headlight control module software[1]. Buyers should verify all recall repairs are completed before purchase.
Ownership Costs
Audi provides a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and an 8-year/100,000-mile EV battery warranty[1]. Roadside assistance covers 4 years with unlimited miles, and the rust warranty extends an impressive 12 years with unlimited mileage[1].
Edmunds estimates the monthly cost to drive at approximately $66[1]. Used 2023 Q4 e-tron models now sell in the $24,000-$32,000 range for well-equipped Premium Plus trims with moderate mileage[1]. Original MSRP was $49,800-$61,000+, representing substantial depreciation that benefits used buyers.
Audi EVs can now charge at Tesla Superchargers with an adapter, expanding charging network access significantly beyond the Electrify America network. Combined with complimentary Electrify America charging for eligible owners, the Q4 e-tron’s charging convenience has improved since launch.
Pros and Cons
Strengths:
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+ with Good ratings across all crashworthiness tests and Superior vehicle-to-vehicle crash prevention performance[4]
- New Q4 40 e-tron offers 265 miles of range—29 miles more than the all-wheel-drive model—at a lower entry price[1]
- Interior design and infotainment significantly improve upon the platform-sharing Volkswagen ID.4, with a larger 11.6-inch center display for 2023[1]
- Familiar driving experience mimics conventional gasoline SUVs, easing the transition for first-time EV buyers without jarring learning curves[1]
- 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty provides peace of mind for used buyers concerned about long-term battery health[1]
Weaknesses:
- Acceleration of 5.7 seconds to 60 mph lags rivals by over a second—Genesis GV60, Tesla Model Y, and Ford Mach-E are noticeably quicker[1]
- DC fast charging takes 36 minutes (5-80%)—nearly twice as long as the Genesis GV60’s 18-minute time under optimal conditions[1]
- Regenerative braking lacks an aggressive one-pedal driving mode, and MotorTrend describes the brakes overall as “vague”[1][2]
- Touch-sensitive steering wheel controls frustrate with frequent fumbled inputs—Green Car Reports accidentally changed settings by brushing surfaces[1][3]
- MotorTrend notes Audi built the Q4 as “a transitional vehicle before its next-generation EVs arrive—essentially hinting that it’s going to become obsolete”[2]
Final Verdict
The 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron represents a conservative but capable entry into the electric SUV segment. Green Car Reports summarizes the driving experience well: “Audi executives uniformly said that while the Q4 may be a battery-electric car, its customers expect a similar driving experience and controls that mimic those of a gasoline or diesel car”[3]. That philosophy defines the Q4—approachable for EV newcomers but not as thrilling as competitors that better showcase electric potential.
Edmunds awards the Q4 e-tron a 7.5/10 for value, acknowledging the interior “offers relatively average value for the money” given some low-budget trim elements[1]. The warranty and roadside assistance coverage are solidly average for the class[1].
- Choose the Q4 e-tron if: You want a familiar driving experience that eases the transition to electric, value Audi’s brand prestige and interior design, and can take advantage of substantial used-market depreciation.
- Consider alternatives if: You want the quickest acceleration (Tesla Model Y, Genesis GV60), fastest charging speeds (GV60 at 18 minutes), or more aggressive one-pedal driving capability.
FAQs
Is the 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron reliable?
Owner reviews on Edmunds average 2.8 out of 5 stars with mixed feedback[1]. Four recalls affect 2023 models, including charging cable overheating and gear position display issues[1]. The 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty provides significant coverage for the most expensive component, which benefits used buyers concerned about long-term ownership.
What is the real-world range of the 2023 Q4 e-tron?
The EPA rates the Q4 40 e-tron (rear-wheel drive) at 265 miles of range, while the Q4 50 e-tron (all-wheel drive) achieves 236 miles[1]. Real-world range varies based on driving conditions, climate control usage, and driving style. Edmunds notes this range is comparable to the Genesis GV60 but well behind the Tesla Model Y Long Range[1].
How long does it take to charge the 2023 Q4 e-tron?
Using a DC fast charger at 150 kW, the Q4 e-tron charges from 5% to 80% in approximately 36 minutes under optimal conditions[1]. A full charge using a 240V home outlet takes about 9 hours[1]. These charging times lag behind rivals—the Tesla Model Y takes about 27 minutes and the Genesis GV60 around 18 minutes for the same DC fast charge[1].
References
- Edmunds. (2023). 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron Review & Ratings. https://www.edmunds.com/audi/q4-e-tron/2023/
- MotorTrend. (2023). 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron Review: Expert Insights, Pricing, and Trims. https://www.motortrend.com/cars/audi/q4-e-tron/2023
- Green Car Reports. (2022). Review: 2023 Audi Q4 E-Tron SUV and Sportback go for traditional. https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1137330_2023-audi-q4-e-tron-test-drive-review
- IIHS. (2023). 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron Safety Ratings. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/audi/q4-e-tron-4-door-suv/2023
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
