Audi has officially unveiled the Q4
Sportback e-tron concept, which previews an upcoming production model that will
be introduced next year. Essentially a crossover coupe version of the Q4 e-tron
concept, the Sportback features a sporty front fascia with a fully enclosed
grille that is flanked by slender LED headlights.
The model also has large air
intakes and a prominent “e-tron” badge beneath the grille. Bigger changes occur
further back as the concept has a rakish windscreen and a steeply sloping roof.
There are also muscular fenders, sporty side skirts and 22-inch alloy wheels
with a two-tone finish.
Rounding out the highlights are a large
diffuser and a liftgate with an integrated spoiler. Elsewhere, there are
slender taillights and an illuminated e-tron badge. Moving into the cabin,
drivers sit behind a flat-bottomed steering wheel and find themselves looking
at a digital instrument cluster. To their right, is a 12.3-inch infotainment
system and minimalist climate controls. We can also see a streamlined center
console and a push-button shifter. Other highlights include microfiber
upholstery, metallic trim and black plexiglas accents. There are also two rear
seats which are integrated into a wide bench.
Motivation is provided by two electric
motors that are feed by an 82 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The rear motor is the primary means of
propulsion and it produces 201 hp and 310 Nm of
torque. If driver needs more power or
conditions warrant more traction, the front motor – which is rated at 101 hp and 150 Nm of torque – kicks on. This setup gives
the crossover a combined output of 302 hp. It enables the
concept to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 6.3 seconds, before hitting
a top speed of 180 km/h.
In terms of range, Audi says drivers can
expect to travel more than 450 km in the WLTP cycle. However, the company also mentioned a
rear-wheel drive variant with a range in excess of 500 km. In
regards to charging, Audi says the concept can be charged at a rate of up to
125 kW. This will allow the crossover to
get an 80% charge in a little more than half an hour.
The Q4 Sportback e-tron concept rides on
the MEB platform and previews an upcoming production model that is slated to be
introduced in 2021. It will become the
brand’s seventh electric vehicle after models such as the e-tron and e-tron GT.