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].
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.
| 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].
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].
The 2023 e-tron interior showcased Audi's dual-touchscreen MMI system:
The three-trim lineup offered progressive feature additions[6]:
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.
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]:
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:
The 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty provides meaningful coverage for used car buyers concerned about long-term battery health[1].
Owner feedback reveals several recurring issues prospective buyers should investigate[9]:
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.
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:
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.
| 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:
Cons:
Choose the 2023 Audi e-tron if you:
Consider alternatives if you:
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.
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