Will Audi's new compact SUV, the Q4 e-tron convert the masses to EVs? Can the Q4 E-Tron tow? Need an Audi Q4 Towbar?

Will Audi's new compact SUV, the Q4 e-tron convert the masses to EVs? Can the Q4 E-Tron tow? Need an Audi Q4 Towbar?

Audi forecasts the Q4 EV will be its second most popular car by sales volume ever.  Time will tell.

It is hoped the Q4 E-Tron will change customer attitudes on EVs - designed for the masses and to finally pull people off their combustion obsession.

Size-wise, this sits between the Q3 and Q5 and comes in two designs: a Sportback version with a sloping roof at the rear and a traditional SUV.  The design is typically Audi, as functional as it is aerodynamic: The Q4 e-Tron achieves a drag coefficient of 0.28, and the Sportback gets to an even lower figure, with a drag coefficient of 0.26.

The exterior fits with the Audi Q line family and apart from the giveaway closed front grille, you wouldn't know it's an EV.

Both of these compact SUVs can be ordered with Matrix LED headlights – they always illuminate the road as brightly as possible without blinding other road users. The digital light signatures are a world first: The driver can switch between four signatures in the MMI touch operating system. At the rear, a light strip links the taillight units to each other.

4.59 meters in length, the Q4 e-Tron offers a lot of interior space, comparable with the full-size SUV class - as there is no centre tunnel. The feeling of spaciousness is not just confined to the front seats – with the generous legroom, passengers in the rear also benefit. When it comes to storage compartments, the Q4 e-tron product line scores high grades with total storage space of around 25 litres.

The boot also offers more space than is generally found in other compact class SUVs, matching that of the mid-size class: Depending on the positioning of the rear seats, the Q4s capacity is 520 to 1,490 litres in the Q4 e-Tron and 535 to 1,460 litres under a power trunk lid in the Sportback. Both models can tow trailers.  The maximum rating depends on the exact specifications and engine size with a max of 1250kgs allowed.

Above the traditional (what a relief) climate controls sits a 10.1 infotainment touchscreen (an 11.6in system is an option). 

Highlights of the interior include a new augmented reality head-up display, a new steering wheel with touch-sensitive controls and a new-look dashboard and digital display. The augmented reality head-up display connects the virtual and the real worlds in a totally new way.  It further reduces the need to look down at the dashboard. It can project images, including sat-nav directional arrows showing you where to turn, so they appear to be on the road ahead.

You get a DAB radio, built-in navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring, two USB-C ports and a three-year subscription to online services such as Google maps, and weather and hazard alerts.  Range-topping models feature a 10-speaker Sonos premium sound system with a 580-watt amplifier.

Audi’s two new electric SUVs can be charged with different outputs using alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) depending on the battery. The compact battery can get up to 7.2 kW with AC charging and up to 100 kW when using HPC charging (high-power charging) with direct current. As standard, the larger battery allows for up to 11 kW with AC and up to 125 kW with HPC.  The high-voltage battery of the Audi Q4 e-Tron and the Q4 Sportback e-Tron lies between the axles, which ensures a low centre of gravity and a balanced distribution of weight. The control systems for the drive and suspension work closely together – driving the compact electric SUVs is safe, sporty, and comfortable all at the same time.

Audi also fits lots of safety equipment as standard, including lane-keeping assistance and an automatic emergency braking (AEB) system that can detect pedestrians and cyclists as well as other cars.

The Audi Q4 e-tron is temptingly priced for a premium-badged EV SUV, plus it’s extremely comfortable, practical and the interior has the typical luxury polished Audi touch..

Considering switching to Audi's Q4 EV.  Need to tow a small trailer or take your bikes along on the next family trip.  We have an Invisible towbar now available - rated for 1250kgs and no bumper cuts are necessary.  Order your Audi Q4 E-Tron towbar today.