Introduction:
In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles, a unique battle is unfolding between emerging pure-electric brands and time-honored traditional manufacturers. Standing prominently in this arena is the Audi Q4 e-tron, a beacon of luxury in its electric form from a traditional luxury brand. Garnering extensive attention, this vehicle symbolizes a pivotal point in the automotive industry’s shift towards electrification. To thoroughly evaluate the Audi Q4 e-tron’s capabilities, I embarked on a detailed exploration in the heart of Beijing, under the challenging conditions of a frigid winter, with temperatures plummeting to minus 10 degrees Celsius. This in-depth examination over several days was aimed at uncovering the true essence of this vehicle.
Recognizable Exterior Design:
The Audi Q4 e-tron distinguishes itself with a design that commands attention. The front is defined by its octagonal closed grille, a design choice that is both bold and innovative. This feature, paired with the vehicle’s overall aesthetics, makes for a remarkable first impression. The interior of the Q4 e-tron continues this trend of excellence, featuring a meticulously crafted environment that marries technology and luxury. The matrix digital headlights, integrating flawlessly with the grille and fog lights, create a cohesive and advanced front facade. The use of bright black trim throughout the front adds a layer of sophistication and modernity. As a compact SUV from a traditional luxury brand, the Q4 e-tron eschews the trend of hidden door handles, favoring practicality and safety.
The side profile of the car is equally impressive, with its 21-inch wheels filling the wheel arches to the brim. These wheels are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve a functional purpose, optimizing wind resistance in a manner that is both sporty and effective. The vehicle’s muscular waistline adds to its dynamic appearance, offering a sense of strength and security. The rear of the Q4 e-tron features through-type taillights reminiscent of those on the Audi Q6, enhancing its familial resemblance. The rear is further accentuated by the three-dimensional e-tron identity mark and the use of bright black material on the bumper, underscoring its luxury status. In observing the Q4 e-tron’s design, one can’t help but be impressed by Audi’s deep-rooted design expertise. This level of harmony and consistency in design is a quality that many new electric vehicle brands could aspire to emulate.
Interior: A Blend of Technology and Luxury:
Upon entering the Q4 e-tron, engineers attract your attention with the harmonious blend of cutting-edge technology and luxurious materials. In contrast to some new power vehicles that boast two, three, or even more central control screens, the Audi Q4 e-tron takes a more measured approach with just two screens. However, the car’s interior design, particularly the three-dimensional structure of the central control console, exudes a strong sense of technological advancement. Audi has also wisely chosen to retain physical buttons for frequently used functions. It is also a decision that enhances safety and convenience during driving. The level of craftsmanship within the interior is a testament to Audi’s legacy as a traditional luxury brand.
The choice of materials, such as the high-grade volcanic ash wood and the silver-gray metal texture trim, elevates the car’s luxury feel to new heights. At night, the interior’s luxurious ambiance could further express in the ambient lighting, which offers a variety of combination schemes. Although the lighting scheme may not be as elaborate as the nightclub-style offerings of some competitors like Mercedes-Benz, it still surpasses many of its rivals in terms of sophistication and appeal. One interesting aspect of the interior design is the continued presence of a start key. This key is a feature that some might find anachronistic in an electric vehicle.
However, this traditional element adds a level of familiarity and ease of use. It is when that it comes to starting the car and shifting gears. The central control screen, measuring 11.6 inches, along with the 10.25-inch full LCD instrument panel, are both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. The MMI operating system enhances the overall user experience, making features like wireless CarPlay especially appealing for Apple users. However, it’s not without its shortcomings. For instance, the voice control system’s recognition accuracy could improve, and the range of support functions expand.
Spacious and Comfortable Interior:
Despite its classification as a compact SUV, the Audi Q4 e-tron impresses with an interior space that rivals mid-sized SUVs. The ample headroom and legroom ensure a comfortable experience for all passengers. The sporty design of the seats, with their strong contours and firm padding, is complemented by the use of suede material, constantly reinforcing the vehicle’s e-tron identity.
The trunk space is notably generous, and with the rear seats folded down, it transforms into a flat, expansive storage area, ideal for larger items or outdoor activities like camping. However, I must point out a drawback regarding the vehicle’s air conditioning system. For safety and battery protection reasons, you can only operated the air-conditions for thirty minutes after the car is parked. And it could afterwards which it automatically shuts off. If there were an option to adjust this duration, it would significantly enhance the vehicle’s utility, especially for longer stops.
The Driving Experience: A Revelation:
The Audi Q4 e-tron offers a driving experience that is both intuitive and exhilarating. Every aspect, from the adjustable seating position to the steering wheel’s angle and feel, has designed for optimal comfort and control. The vehicle’s all-around visibility further enhances the driving experience. The chassis’ texture varies significantly between the different driving modes. In sport mode, the suspension becomes remarkably firm, comparable to that of high-performance sports cars. In contrast, the comfort and economy modes feature a much softer suspension, greatly improving ride comfort.
Despite its substantial size, the Q4 e-tron’s agility and steering response are exceptional, thanks to its variable steering ratio. The driving experience is further enriched by multiple mode adjustments. It is also providing a drive that closely resembles that of traditional fuel vehicles. As an electric vehicle, the Q4 e-tron does not disappoint in terms of power. Its acceleration is impressive, going from 0-100km/h in just 6.8 seconds, and achieving 0-50km/h in a mere 3 seconds. The dual-motor four-wheel drive system exhibits outstanding handling stability, particularly on icy and snowy roads. The timely intervention of the limited-slip system and the rear-wheel-drive bias of the dual-motor setup add to the vehicle’s playfulness and handling prowess.
Advanced Intelligence and Features:
The Q4 e-tron has equipped with a comprehensive suite of L2-level automatic driving assistance functions, including effective lane recognition and obstacle identification. However, the activation process of these features could be more user-friendly. Currently, it involves using the toggle switch on the lower left of the steering wheel, followed by another toggle on the upper left to start the system. Simplifying this process would greatly enhance the user experience.
Conclusion:
The Audi Q4 e-tron represents a paradigm shift in electric vehicles, blending traditional luxury with cutting-edge electric innovation. From its distinctive design to the luxurious interiors, spacious cabin, and exhilarating driving experience, the Q4 e-tron demonstrates Audi’s commitment to innovation in the electric vehicle segment. Offering a balanced mix of performance, comfort, and an impressive range, the Q4 e-tron not only advances electric vehicle technology but also upholds the enduring values of luxury and sophistication in a modern context.