The Audi Q4 e-tron 45 82 kWh quattro, produced from July 2021 to September 2023, represents Audi’s entry into the compact luxury electric SUV segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Q4 e-tron lineup, it slots between the base 35 e-tron and the higher-performance 50 e-tron variants. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform (Modular Electric Drive Matrix), shared with models like the Volkswagen ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq iV, the Q4 e-tron 45 aimed to provide a balance of range, performance, and practicality for buyers transitioning to electric vehicles. It was primarily marketed in Europe and North America, offering a premium electric experience with Audi’s renowned build quality and technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | Q4 e-tron |
| Generation | Q4 e-tron |
| Type (Engine) | 45 82 kWh (265 Hp) quattro |
| Start of production | July, 2021 |
| End of production | September, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 124.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 199.1 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 82 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 76.6 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 352 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery weight | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| Recuperation output | 145 kW |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 412-490 km (256 – 304.47 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 17.9-21.3 kWh/100 km (28.81 – 34.28 kWh/100 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 16.5-18.2 kWh/100 km (26.55 – 29.29 kWh/100 mi) |
| Electric motor 1 power | 204 Hp |
| Electric motor 1 Torque | 310 Nm (228.64 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 1 location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 1 type | Synchronous |
| Electric motor 2 power | 109 Hp |
| Electric motor 2 Torque | 150 Nm (110.63 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 2 location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 2 type | Asynchronous |
| System power | 265 Hp |
| System torque | 425 Nm (313.46 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2135 kg (4706.87 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2720 kg (5996.57 lbs) |
| Max load | 585 kg (1289.7 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1490 l (52.62 cu. ft.) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs) |
| Length | 4588 mm (180.63 in) |
| Width | 1865 mm (73.43 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 2108 mm (82.99 in) |
| Height | 1632 mm (64.25 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2764 mm (108.82 in) |
| Front track | 1587 mm (62.48 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1565 mm (61.61 in) |
| Front overhang | 854 mm (33.62 in) |
| Rear overhang | 970 mm (38.19 in) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft) |
| Approach angle | 16.9° |
| Departure angle | 19.4° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Front tires | 235/55 R19; 235/50 R20; 235/45 R21 |
| Rear tires | 255/50 R19; 255/45 R20; 255/40 R21 |
| Front wheel rims | 8J x 19; 8J x 20; 8.5J x 21 |
| Rear wheel rims | 8J x 19; 9J x 20; 9J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Q4 e-tron 45 quattro utilizes a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive (quattro) powertrain. The rear motor is a synchronous electric motor producing 204 horsepower, while the front motor is an asynchronous motor generating 109 horsepower. Combined, these motors deliver a system output of 265 horsepower and 425 Nm (313.46 lb-ft) of torque. The powertrain is powered by an 82 kWh (gross) / 76.6 kWh (net) lithium-ion battery pack located under the vehicle floor. This battery pack operates at 352 volts. The MEB platform’s architecture allows for fast charging capabilities, supporting up to 150 kW DC fast charging, enabling a significant charge in approximately 38 minutes. The single-speed automatic transmission is inherent to electric vehicle drivetrains, providing seamless acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The Q4 e-tron 45 quattro offers a refined and comfortable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 6.6 seconds. The instant torque delivery characteristic of electric motors provides brisk acceleration, particularly in the initial stages. Compared to the more powerful Q4 50 e-tron, the 45 offers a slightly less aggressive throttle response. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions. The single-speed transmission ensures smooth and linear power delivery. Regenerative braking is adjustable, allowing drivers to customize the level of deceleration when lifting off the throttle, contributing to increased range.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Q4 e-tron 45 quattro typically came standard with features such as a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, LED headlights, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) including lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically a combination of leatherette and fabric. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, and adaptive cruise control. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered packages that added convenience and luxury features.
Chassis & Braking
The Q4 e-tron 45 quattro features an independent suspension system, with a McPherson strut setup at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drums – a cost-saving measure for this trim level. Electric power steering provides precise and responsive steering feel. The vehicle’s relatively low center of gravity, due to the battery pack’s placement, contributes to its stability and cornering ability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi Q4 e-tron 45 quattro was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology. However, some reviewers noted that the rear drum brakes were a surprising omission in a luxury vehicle. Compared to the Q4 50 e-tron, the 45 offered a more affordable entry point into the Q4 lineup, but with slightly reduced performance. Fuel economy, expressed as MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent), ranged from 117-98, depending on driving conditions. The Q4 e-tron 45 quattro competed with other compact luxury electric SUVs such as the Tesla Model Y, BMW iX3, and Volvo XC40 Recharge.
Legacy
The Audi Q4 e-tron 45 quattro has established itself as a reliable and practical electric SUV in the used car market. The MEB platform’s powertrain has proven to be relatively robust, with few widespread issues reported. Battery degradation is a typical concern with all electric vehicles, but the Q4 e-tron’s battery management system is designed to minimize this effect. As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, the Q4 e-tron 45 quattro represents an early and well-executed attempt by Audi to offer a compelling electric SUV option to a wider audience.
