2021 Audi e-tron Review: The Self-Effacing EV
The 2021 Audi e-tron bears a very suave and sophisticated aesthetic and delivers a distinctly confident but level-headed driving experience, both of which are synonymous with the Audi brand. These qualities differentiate the e-tron from its electric, midsize SUV contemporaries such as the Tesla Model X, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and even the Volkswagen ID.4, which all bear very futuristic designs that clearly express their prestige as electric cars and all of which deliver over-the-top levels of performance. Put the pedal to the metal in Sport mode and the e-tron's electric powertrain surges out up to 402 horsepower, resulting in some pretty energetic acceleration responses that are maintained at most speeds, but it's clear the responses are dialed for the smoothest and calmest driving experience possible. These qualities, along with a decent all-electric driving range and exceptional fuel-equivalent mileage returns, make the 2021 Audi e-tron a very pragmatic 5-door EV, but some may prefer the thrill and engagement that its competitors bear over it.
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 193.0 in | 115.3 in | 65.5 in | 76.2 in | 64.7 in | 64.5 in | 5,699.0 lbs |
2021 e-tron Performance
2021 e-tron Interior
2021 e-tron Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 12 Years / Unlimited Miles | 4 Years / Unlimited Miles | 1 Years / 10,000 Miles |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
| Overall Rating | Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Side Crash Rating | Rollover Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
Verdict: Is the 2021 Audi e-tron A Good SUV?
The Audi e-tron's most admirable quality is that it looks and feels like a regular SUV but with the added benefit of being all-electric. It benefits from instantaneous power delivery, but it is quite a heavy vehicle, which means that it won't feel as agile around corners as, say, a regular midsize Audi SUV. But it remains an attractive offering nonetheless, as an electric vehicle that Audi saved from the perhaps overly pretentious designs and extreme performance that many EV-makers insist upon. It's a very pleasant EV to drive and though it's not the best when it comes to range and economy, its 222-mile range and 78 MPGe figures are still very respectable. It also comes standard-fit with oodles of features and presents occupants with a contemporary and commodious interior and plenty of cargo space, too. Both the NHTSA and the IIHS have completed an in-depth review of the 2021 Audi e-tron for its crashworthiness and it earned a top-notch safety rating from both, and a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS. The Audi e-tron is a good pick for anyone that's uncertain about transitioning from their familiar ICE car to an EV. It's beautiful and an exceptional car overall.
What Audi e-tron Model Should I Buy?
With the 2021 Audi e-tron Premium's price starting at $65,900 in the US, it's certainly a tempting pick from the line. And with everything it includes as standard, you'll certainly be getting your money's worth. These features include LED exterior lighting, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and even a panoramic sunroof amongst a ton of other luxury creature comforts and conveniences. It also comes outfitted with Audi's awesome 12.3-inch digital driver display and dual touchscreen infotainment system that features both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Inclusive driver assists and safety systems include front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, a rearview camera, collision detection and preparation, and automatic emergency braking.