At the moment, the only Audi e-tron models we know intimately are the e-tron SUV and e-tron Sportback. Outside of that, all of the brand’s EVs are still in the pipeline. Cars like the Q4 e-tron and e-tron GT are still in development stages, so we won’t be able to test them for some time. However, if we want to get an idea of how some of these new EVs might work, we can turn to Audi’s parent company, Volkswagen. More specifically, the Volkswagen ID.3.
The Volkswagen ID.3 is built on the same MEB architecture that will underpin most future Audi EVs. For instance, the Audi Q4 e-tron will be an MEB-based car and there will be more to come. So if we want to understand what the Q4 e-tron might be like, we should look to the ID.3 for answers.
Admittedly, we don’t get the ID.3 in the ‘States, so we can’t actually test it, personally. However, we can turn to our European colleagues for answers and check out their reviews of the car.
In this recent review from Top Gear, we get an idea of what the Volkswagen ID.3 is like to drive and what it might mean for the Audi Q4 e-tron.
Judging by this review, it seems that there’s a lot to like about the ID.3 but also a lot to criticize. For instance, it’s a great driving car that feels rear-wheel drive. That’s important, as all MEB-based products will be rear-drive as-standard, so they will feel sportier than their front-wheel drive counterparts. Its steering is good and grip levels are high.
However, it lacks one-pedal driving (in which regenerative braking is so strong on throttle lift that the actual brake-pedal is rarely used), which is a desirable component in EVs. Making matters worse, the actual brake pedal feel and response needs a lot of work.
On the inside, materials are good, the seating positions are nice and the automated driving tech is some of the best in the business. However, it’s also a bit boring inside and Volkswagen touch-sensitive climate controls are finicky. Though, the Audi Q4 e-tron will be getting an interior that’s a bit different than the ID.3, so it might be better in those regards.
Still, this review gives us some optimism about the upcoming Audi Q4 e-tron. The driving dynamics are clearly there and the MEB chassis has potential. If Audi can put together a better interior (which it should) and give it one-pedal driving, the Q4 will be a force to be reckoned with in the EV market.
