2024 Audi Q4 e-tron Gains Power, Range, RWD Model
Similar to the Volkswagen ID.4, its mainstream cousin, the Audi Q4 e-tron is also getting some technical upgrades. The changes arrive midway through the 2024 model year in North America rather than for 2025 as previously anticipated.
The 50 e-tron model with quattro all-wheel drive becomes the 55 e-tron. Its 82kWh battery (77 kWh net capacity) has been optimized to replenish faster using a DC charger, going from 10-80 percent in about 28 minutes under normal conditions instead of 36 minutes. Specifically, the maximum DC charging rate is up from 150 kW to 175 kW.
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Also, for the first time, the Q4 55 e-tron features post-conditioning where the vehicle’s thermal management system cools the battery if it exceeds a defined temperature threshold after driving or charging.
Range has been increased, too, from 380 km to 415 km—topping that magic number of 400 km for many potential customers. What’s more, the updated electric motor on the rear axle achieves higher efficiency and greater power. As a result, the Q4 55 e-tron produces a maximum of 335 horsepower, an increase of 40 horsepower. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h now takes 5.3 seconds, which is a full second quicker.
Audi claims the steering characteristics and suspension tuning have been specially adapted for the occasion, enabling harmonious damping, improved steering response and tighter load control. Oh, and sharp-looking new 21-inch wheels are available, though at the expense of ride quality.
All-inclusive pricing for the 2024 Audi Q4 55 e-tron starts at $68,400, but don’t forget the federal EV rebate of $5,000 plus provincial incentives where applicable. The first deliveries are scheduled for this spring. The coupe-like Q4 Sportback 55 e-tron, meanwhile, starts at $77,350.
A Cheaper New Option
Want to save another $5,000? Consider the new-for-2024 Q4 45 e-tron. This single-motor RWD model boasts 280 horsepower, which means sprints from 0-100 km/h in 6.6 seconds. Using the same 82kWh battery, maximum range proves even more interesting at 463 km. On the flip side, no heat pump is included—unlike the more expensive AWD model—which will have a bigger impact in cold weather.
Regardless of your selection, Audi offers four years (or up to 1,400 kWh) of complimentary charging at Electrify Canada charging stations. Competitors include the Volvo XC40 Recharge/C40 Recharge (to be renamed EX40 and EC40), Genesis GV60, Mercedes-Benz EQB and Lexus RZ.
