Better late than never, Audi USA has announced plans to sell the tri-motor E-Tron S and E-Tron S Sportback after the European division unveiled the high-performance electric SUVs back in June 2020. With two e-motors at the back and another one powering the front wheels, these hotter S versions offer Quattro all-wheel drive and a combined output of 496 hp and 718 lb-ft of torque.
It’s worth noting the maximum power is available only in boost mode, which lasts just eight seconds. In normal mode, the three electric motors produce a total of 429 hp and an instant torque of 596 lb-ft, which isn’t too shabby. You’ll want the boost mode on for the quickest acceleration possible, with the sprint to 60 mph taking a mere 4.3 seconds.
Feeding the three electric motors is a fairly large lithium-ion battery pack with a 95-kWh capacity that can be charged at up to 150 kW. Doing so will replenish the battery from 5% to 80% in less than half an hour provided you’re using a level 3 DC public fast charger. With the battery full, the E-Tron S can travel for 208 miles whereas the Sportback S covers 212 miles thanks to its slightly more aerodynamic body.
As standard equipment, both performance-oriented electric SUVs get adaptive air suspension and six-piston brake calipers at the front axle. To sweeten the deal, Audi USA is offering a towing package that bumps the E-Tron S models to a rated capacity of 3,300 pounds.
Manufactured in a carbon-neutral factory at the Brussels factory in Belgium since mid-2020 for the European market, the Audi E-Tron S and E-Tron S Sportback will be available in the US this fall. The conventionally styled model starts at $84,800 for the base Premium Plus and rises to $89,800 for the better-equipped Prestige. Its equivalent Sportback sibling commands a $2,600 premium for both trim levels.
These new models are part of Audi USA’s efforts to electrify about 30% of its lineup by the middle of the decade. A facelifted version of the E-Tron is rumored to get more efficient motors and battery pack for a greater range in 2023, but nothing is official at this point.
Source: Audi
In 2024, the BMW iX has been crowned the best electric vehicle (EV) by Consumer…
The BMW iX represents the pinnacle of the brand's current electric vehicle offerings, having made…
MINI is set to break new ground with the introduction of its inaugural electric John…
The essence of the 12th BMW Art Car thrives in the distinctive i5, mirroring the…
Carwow's latest unusual drag race, brought to you by the German branch of the popular…
The i5 xDrive40 has made its appearance on the 2024 model year pricing list, and…