New Audi E-Tron Prototype Unveiled, facelift imminent

Audi is previewing a mid-cycle update for its all-electric e-tron SUV. The specially designed camouflage still hides the future design details, but at quick close reveals a few updates.
At the front, there’s a restyled grille area with a mesh-like design, as well as a new front bumper with redesigned air curtains. The mesh grille is flanked by new headlights, which have “new lighting innovations.” Moving in the back, we can spot a new rear bumper and diffuser. The e-tron Prototype also gains integrated e-tron badging and updated taillights.

No tech details are currently being released by Audi. But previous reports point to an increase in power and range. Allegedly, the Audi e-tron facelift would come with more efficient motors, an improved energy recovery system, and an upgraded battery pack. The total range could increase to around 373 miles (600 km) in the WLTP cycle. That’s a significant bump over the current e-tron’s 273 miles (440 km).

A rumored Audi e-tron RS will come with a tri-motor setup for a huge performance boost. Before the arrival of the Tesla Model S Plaid, Audi was proudly announcing that it would be the first carmaker to bring a tri-motor electric vehicles to the segment.

Audi e-tron was introduced to the market in 2019 and it was followed by the e-tron Sportback in 2020. But today, Audi is facing new competitors with Mercedes EQE SUV and EQS SUV being a more up-to-date choice, BMW has the iX and iX1. Audi is expected to reveal the e-Tron this year and will continue to be manufactured until 2026. That year, a dedicated electric-car platform shared with other Audi and Porsche electric vehicles will come to market.

[Photos: Audi]