Is the 2022 Audi Q4 e-tron Worth the Price?
The 2022 Audi Q4 e-tron quattro is a small, sporty EV crossover that promises a range of up to 242 miles. However, with a base price of over $50,000 and an as-tested price of nearly $65,000, is it worth the investment? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Q4’s design, driving experience, and features to determine if it’s worth the price.
Design: A Mixed Bag
The Q4’s exterior design is undoubtedly a highlight. Audi’s angular design theme works well on the exterior sheet metal, making it a looker from the outside. However, the interior design is heavy on angles and doesn’t always have the luxury looks one would expect from an Audi. While design is subjective, the use of downmarket materials at this price point is bothersome.
Driving Experience: Competent but Not Exceptional
The Q4’s acceleration is just fine, thanks to the instantaneously available torque that comes with electric motors. However, the handling can only be described as no better than competent. While it’s not a chore to drive, exactly, and there’s some sport to be had, it’s not quite as well-sorted as it could be when you push a little. The suspension is MacPherson strut in front and four-link rear axle out back. On the ride side of things, the Q4 tilts just over the edge into being a bit stiffer than one would like for commuting.
Features: A Premium Price for Premium Features
Standard features include MMI infotainment with a 10.1-inch screen, 19-inch wheels, Bluetooth, LED headlights and taillights, heated front seats, leather seats, a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, power tailgate, panoramic sunroof, and tri-zone climate control. However, to get the full suite of features, buyers will need to opt for the Premium Package ($7,600), which adds adaptive cruise control, augmented reality head-up display, heated steering wheel with regen paddles, Sonos audio system, hands-free operation for the power liftgate, satellite radio, wireless phone charging, and interior LED lighting. An S Line Plus package ($2,200) adds 20-inch wheels, a flattened steering wheel, all-season tires, sport seats, roof rails, and more.
Charging: Fast but Limited
The Q4’s battery is an 82 kWh lithium-ion unit, and the car has a single-speed automatic transmission. Top speed is limited to 112 miles per hour. DC fast charging should take you from 5 percent to 80 percent in 36 minutes while charging with 9.6 kW will take nine hours and with 11.5 kW will take 7.5.
Is the Q4 Worth the Price?
While the Q4’s idea makes sense as a small, sporty EV crossover with range enough for most commuters, the base price is over $50K, and the as-tested price made our eyes pop. The Q4’s dynamic flaws annoy but aren’t deal breakers. However, the presence of some downmarket materials at this price point is bothersome. While the controls are generally easy to learn and use – and that includes the MMI infotainment system – we’d shop elsewhere for a better value.
In conclusion, the Q4’s exterior design is a highlight, but the interior design doesn’t always have the luxury looks one would expect from an Audi. The driving experience is competent but not exceptional, and the features are premium but come at a premium price. While the Q4’s idea makes sense as a small, sporty EV crossover with range enough for most commuters, the high price point and downmarket materials make it hard to justify the investment.
