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The 2023 Audi e-tron represents the final model year before Audi’s rebranding to Q8 e-tron, offering 226 miles of EPA range and 402 horsepower in a refined luxury package[1]. Originally priced at $70,800 MSRP, used examples now sell for $26,500-$46,000 depending on trim and mileage—representing exceptional depreciation for buyers seeking premium EV ownership at used car prices[2][3]. This IIHS Top Safety Pick+ earned model delivers traditional Audi luxury but trails competitors in range and efficiency[4].
Overview: The Original Audi EV
The 2023 e-tron marked the final year of Audi’s pioneering electric SUV before the model received significant updates and was renamed Q8 e-tron for 2024. Built on Audi’s MLB evo platform (adapted from gasoline vehicles rather than a dedicated EV architecture), the e-tron prioritized traditional luxury car refinement over maximizing range or efficiency[1].
This approach created a vehicle that drives remarkably like a conventional Audi Q7—quiet, composed, and comfortable—while delivering zero tailpipe emissions. The trade-off was an EPA range of 218-226 miles, which trailed competitors like the Tesla Model X (up to 371 miles) and Jaguar I-Pace (234 miles) at the time[5].
For shoppers exploring Audi’s electric evolution, the 2024 Q8 e-tron offers nearly 60 miles more range thanks to a larger battery pack, while the smaller Audi Q4 e-tron provides a more affordable entry point into the brand’s EV lineup.
2023 Audi e-tron Specifications
| Specification | e-tron 55 | e-tron S |
|---|---|---|
| Original MSRP | $70,800-$79,200 | $85,800+ |
| Used Price Range | $26,500-$42,000 | $45,000-$61,000 |
| Battery Capacity | 95 kWh (86.5 net) | 95 kWh (86.5 net) |
| Total Output | 402 hp | 496 hp |
| Torque | 489 lb-ft | 718 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 5.5 sec | 4.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 130 mph |
| EPA Range (SUV) | 222-226 mi | 208 mi (20″) / 181 mi (21-22″) |
| EPA Range (Sportback) | 218-225 mi | 212 mi (20″) / 185 mi (21-22″) |
| EPA Efficiency | 77-79 MPGe | 64-68 MPGe |
| DC Fast Charging | 150 kW | 150 kW |
| Drivetrain | quattro AWD | quattro AWD |
| Cargo Volume | 28.5 cu ft | 28.5 cu ft |
| Towing Capacity | 4,000 lbs | 4,000 lbs |
| Curb Weight | ~5,700 lbs | ~5,800 lbs |
Data from Edmunds, Car and Driver, and KBB[1][5][6].
Driving Experience
The 2023 e-tron earned consistent praise for its traditional luxury car character. Car and Driver observed 73 MPGe in real-world testing with a highway range of approximately 220 miles—closely matching the EPA estimate of 218 miles for the Sportback[5]. This accuracy in range predictions stands out compared to many EVs that show significant variance between EPA ratings and real-world performance.
Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes 5.5 seconds for the standard model, with the performance-oriented e-tron S dropping that to 4.5 seconds[6]. Braking from 70-0 mph requires 182 feet, and the SUV holds 0.84 g on the skidpad—respectable figures for a vehicle weighing over 5,700 lbs[5].
The ride quality exemplifies Audi’s luxury positioning. Air suspension delivers excellent isolation from road imperfections while maintaining composed handling. Multiple reviewers noted the e-tron feels more like a traditional luxury SUV than many competitors that emphasize EV-specific characteristics.
One notable feature is the 4,000-lb towing capacity—relatively high for an EV of its era[6]. This capability appealed to buyers who needed to occasionally tow small trailers or boats, though range drops significantly under load.
For home charging solutions, consult our best EV chargers guide. The e-tron’s 9.6 kW onboard charger enables full charges in approximately 10 hours on a 240V outlet[1].
Interior & Technology
The 2023 e-tron interior showcased Audi’s dual-touchscreen MMI system:
- Upper display: 10.1-inch touchscreen for infotainment and navigation
- Lower display: 8.6-inch touchscreen for climate and vehicle settings
- Virtual Cockpit: 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Wireless connectivity: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and phone charging
The three-trim lineup offered progressive feature additions[6]:
- Premium ($70,800): Leather seating, panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, collision warning, navigation system, wireless smartphone integration
- Premium Plus ($79,200): Bang & Olufsen 3D sound, ventilated front seats, top-view camera, advanced parking assist
- Chronos Edition: Special edition with unique exterior styling and enhanced interior appointments
Cargo space measures 28.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, comparable to similarly sized luxury SUVs. The Sportback body style trades some cargo volume for improved aerodynamics and a more rakish profile.
Understanding Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive helps contextualize the e-tron’s electric adaptation of this heritage system. For charging compatibility questions, see our guide on whether Audi can charge at Tesla Superchargers.
Safety Features & Ratings
The 2023 Audi e-tron earned IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation—the organization’s highest rating—making it one of the safest luxury EVs of its generation[4][7].
IIHS testing results[8]:
- Small overlap front (driver): Good
- Small overlap front (passenger): Good
- Moderate overlap front: Good
- Side impact: Good
- Roof strength: Good
- Pedestrian crash prevention (day): Superior
- Pedestrian crash prevention (night): Advanced
Night-time pedestrian detection performed strongly: the e-tron avoided collisions in 25 mph parallel adult tests using both high and low beams. In 37 mph tests, impact speed was reduced by 36 mph with high beams and 31 mph with low beams[8].
Standard active safety equipment included:
- Pre-sense front collision mitigation
- Lane departure warning
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Adaptive cruise control (optional)
- 360-degree camera system (Premium Plus and above)
The 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty provides meaningful coverage for used car buyers concerned about long-term battery health[1].
Known Issues & Reliability Concerns
Owner feedback reveals several recurring issues prospective buyers should investigate[9]:
- Battery cell failures: Some owners reported battery cells failing prematurely, resulting in reduced range. Audi’s response—replacing individual cells rather than entire packs—has frustrated some customers dealing with extended repair times.
- Range loss incidents: Reports exist of vehicles suddenly losing half their displayed range, attributed to battery control module problems. These modules required multiple replacements in some cases.
- Liftgate sensor issues: The “kick to open” rear liftgate feature occasionally opened the hatch without proximity to the vehicle, creating potential security concerns.
- Software glitches: The virtual cockpit and infotainment system experienced intermittent failures, though software updates addressed many issues over time.
- Electrify America network frustrations: The included free charging benefit through Electrify America received mixed reviews, with owners citing broken chargers and connectivity problems.
Despite these concerns, Consumer Reports notes the e-tron achieved a reliability rating of 3 out of 5, indicating average reliability for the class[10]. Understanding Audi longevity expectations provides additional context for ownership planning.
Used Car Value Analysis
The 2023 e-tron represents one of the fastest-depreciating luxury EVs, creating compelling value for used car buyers willing to accept its range limitations[2][3]:
| Condition | Trade-In Value | Private Party | Dealer Retail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium – Outstanding | $34,101 | $35,693 | $37,487 |
| Premium – Clean | $33,717 | $35,263 | $37,005 |
| Premium – Average | $33,076 | $34,545 | $36,202 |
| Premium Plus – Outstanding | $35,343 | $37,934 | $40,859 |
| Premium Plus – Clean | $34,945 | $37,477 | $40,333 |
| Chronos – Outstanding | $40,018 | $41,398 | $42,948 |
Values from Edmunds based on 12,000 miles/year average mileage[2].
TrueCar listings show used 2023 e-tron examples ranging from $26,500 for high-mileage Premium trims to $34,895 for low-mileage Premium Plus models[3]. KBB Fair Market Prices indicate:
- Premium: ~$34,041
- Premium Plus: ~$36,459
- Chronos: ~$46,396[6]
This represents approximately 50-60% depreciation from original MSRP in roughly two years—significantly higher than typical luxury vehicle depreciation. For buyers whose daily driving falls within the 180-200 mile practical range, this depreciation creates access to premium EV ownership at compact car prices.
2023 e-tron vs 2024 Q8 e-tron
| Criteria | 2023 e-tron | 2024 Q8 e-tron |
|---|---|---|
| Used Price (avg) | $30,000-$40,000 | $65,000-$75,000 |
| EPA Range | 218-226 mi | 285-300 mi |
| Battery (net) | 86.5 kWh | 106 kWh |
| DC Fast Charging | 150 kW | 170 kW |
| Efficiency | 77-79 MPGe | 80-87 MPGe |
| Safety Rating | Top Safety Pick+ | Top Safety Pick+ |
The 2024 Q8 e-tron offers nearly 60 additional miles of range thanks to its larger battery pack—a meaningful improvement for buyers who regularly need extended range[11]. However, the 2023 e-tron’s dramatic depreciation makes it roughly half the price for buyers whose driving patterns accommodate its 220-mile capability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+ with Superior pedestrian detection
- Exceptional depreciation creates outstanding used value
- Traditional luxury car refinement and ride quality
- 4,000-lb towing capacity unusual for EVs
- 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty
- Real-world range closely matches EPA estimates
- 150 kW DC fast charging capability
Cons:
- 218-226 mile range trails newer competitors significantly
- Reported battery cell failures and range loss issues
- Electrify America charging network reliability complaints
- 50-60% depreciation indicates weak resale value
- Production ended—successor uses different platform
- Software glitches affected some early owners
- Less interior space than gas-powered Q7 despite similar exterior
Final Verdict: Should You Buy a 2023 Audi e-tron?
Choose the 2023 Audi e-tron if you:
- Want premium EV ownership at used Camry prices ($26,000-$40,000)
- Have daily driving needs under 180-200 miles
- Prioritize ride quality and traditional luxury over maximum range
- Can install home charging for daily use
- Want a vehicle that drives like a conventional luxury SUV
Consider alternatives if you:
- Need 250+ miles of real-world range regularly
- Rely heavily on DC fast charging networks
- Are concerned about long-term support for discontinued models
- Prioritize resale value
- Want the latest EV technology and efficiency
The 2023 e-tron occupies a unique position in the used EV market[1]. Its substantial depreciation transforms a $70,000+ luxury vehicle into an accessible option for buyers seeking premium EV ownership without the premium price. The IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, refined driving character, and 8-year battery warranty provide meaningful reassurance[4].
However, the 220-mile range limitation is real. Buyers should honestly assess their driving patterns before committing. For those with home charging and daily commutes under 150 miles, the e-tron delivers genuine luxury and EV benefits at a fraction of its original cost. For those needing longer range or frequent road trips, the newer Q8 e-tron or competitors offer more practical solutions despite higher prices.
When evaluating used examples, verify battery health through diagnostic reports and research the vehicle’s service history for any battery-related repairs. The 8-year warranty provides coverage, but knowing the battery’s condition upfront prevents surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the range of a 2023 Audi e-tron?
How much is a used 2023 Audi e-tron worth?
Is the 2023 Audi e-tron reliable?
Consumer Reports rates the 2023 e-tron reliability at 3 out of 5 (average)[10]. Owner reports document battery cell failures, range loss incidents, and software glitches, though many owners report positive experiences. The 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty provides meaningful coverage for used buyers.
What’s the difference between the 2023 e-tron and 2024 Q8 e-tron?
The 2024 Q8 e-tron features a larger 106 kWh battery (vs 86.5 kWh), providing 285-300 miles of range versus 218-226 miles[11]. Fast charging increased from 150 kW to 170 kW, and efficiency improved to 80-87 MPGe. The Q8 naming aligned with Audi’s SUV nomenclature.
Did the 2023 Audi e-tron get good safety ratings?
References
- Edmunds. (2023). 2023 Audi e-tron Review & Ratings. https://www.edmunds.com/audi/e-tron/2023/
- Edmunds. (2025). 2023 Audi e-tron Value – Find Out What Your Car’s Worth. https://www.edmunds.com/audi/e-tron/2023/appraisal-value/
- TrueCar. (2025). Used 2023 Audi e-tron for Sale Nationwide. https://www.truecar.com/used-cars-for-sale/listings/audi/e-tron/year-2023/
- Green Car Reports. (2023). All 4 Audi electric SUVs achieve top IIHS safety ratings. https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1140236_all-4-audi-electric-suvs-achieve-top-iihs-safety-ratings
- Car and Driver. (2023). 2023 Audi e-tron Review. https://www.caranddriver.com/audi/e-tron
- Kelley Blue Book. (2023). 2023 Audi e-tron Specs, Features & Options. https://www.kbb.com/audi/e-tron/2023/specs/
- Audi Media Center. (2023). Seven Audi models meet tougher updated IIHS criteria. https://media.audiusa.com
- IIHS. (2023). 2023 Audi e-tron Safety Ratings. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/audi/e-tron-4-door-suv/2023
- Reddit r/electricvehicles. (2020). Audi e-tron reliability.
Audi e tron reliability
byu/djkrikke inelectricvehicles - Consumer Reports. (2023). 2023 Audi e-tron Reliability. https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/audi/e-tron/2023/reliability/
- YouTube – Out of Spec Reviews. (2023). Highway Range Test Battle! Old vs New Audi E-Tron.
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.
