Have you ever wondered exactly how quiet is your e-Tron Sportback? When a sound meter is used it registers a low 63 decibels within it at a steady 70 mph, which concludes just one decibel less compared to the standard e-Tron model. The Sportback almost matches the $335,350 Rolls-Royce Cullinan's 62 decibels when registered and compared by the same audio test. However, even R-R's rolling sensory-deprivation room produces a relative racket (71 decibels) if you unleash its own 563-hp V-12 engine. In comparison, matting the e-Tron Sportback's accelerator only increased the degree of loudness to some 65-decibel hum.
Supremely quiet saloon, better range, roomy and attractive sedan
The Sportback's quiet performance was especially easy to spot on our packed Edition One test vehicle - one of just 200 constructed for its 2020 model year - since it pretty much whirred exactly the same as the mechanically similar 2019 e-Tron. The Sportback weighs only 24 lbs less than the classic e-Tron model. Like its sibling, toggling the Sportback's shift trigger to S mode unlocks an overboost setting which uses the power of the joint output from its front and rear motors from 355 horsepower to 402, which is fantastic for a pretty adequate 5.1-second run to 60 mph.
There is no way to confuse it with the skyrocketing Tesla since it finishes the quarter-mile run in 13.8 minutes at 101 mph. However, the e-Tron powertrain's fast responses and instant torque make doing manoeuvres effortlessly. Its 3.0-second 50-to-70-mph abilities are pretty much remarkable, even though we'll try not to get too excited before the launch of the three-motor S-edition of the Sportback.
EVs are inherently silent because of the lack of controlled explosions under their hoods, which can be explained by the safety regulations currently requiring all newly produced electric vehicles to whir like spaceships at low speeds to prevent running over pedestrians. However, Audi deserves standing ovation for optimising the e-Tron's aerodynamics in order to generate virtually no noticeable wind noise at speed. Besides the newly introduced laminated side window glass on higher trim levels, there is enough sound insulation added to the Sportback's structure to account for a big part of its impressive 5819-pound curb weight. The noise created by the tires on the highway is barely there, while even rough roads and pavement create only remote thumps in the wheel wells.
Range, charging, and battery life
The e-Tron comes with a 95.3-kWh ion battery package. However, we believe Audi is upgrading the battery for the 2020 launch to ensure better driving range. The EPA-estimated range of the 2019 version comes with a driving range of 204 miles, which had been less compared to I-Pace (234 kilometres) along with the Model X Long Range (295 kilometres). According to information regarding the upgraded European edition, we anticipate the 2020 e-Tron is going to have a variety of approximately 210 miles. It will continue to be compatible with 150.0-kW DC fast-chargers, which let it recover roughly 50 kilometres in 10 minutes and only over 160 kilometres in half an hour. Hook it up to a 240-volt household socket and you will fully charge the e-Tron in roughly ten hours.
Comfort, interior and cargo
The e-Tron's most remarkable technology is its own electronic systems, but the five-seat crossover additionally includes a cutting edge and functional cabin. Its dash is packed with multiple high-resolution displays which have Audi's digital gauge audience - known as Virtual Cockpit - and also two flush-mounted touchscreens in the middle. Obviously, there are many different upscale additions like a head-up screen and massaging front seats to complement the e-Tron's sophisticated interior, which comes from a set floor as a result of its neatly packed underfloor battery package. This helps to provide its cargo area which measures 29 cubic feet behind the rear seat row and 57 cubic feet when the seatbacks are folded flat. We were able to fit eight carry-on suitcases together with the seats up and 13 with the seats down.
Driver-assistance features and safety
Audi e-Tron gained a five-star crash-test score by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and it is considered a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IHSA). The all-electric Audi also features an array of standard driver-assistance technologies, and it is available with semi-autonomous drive additions like adaptive cruise control and self-parking aid. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking
- Standard blind-spot tracking and back cross-traffic alert
- Standard lane-departure warning