e-tron GT

Make
Audi
Segment
Sedan

The Audi e-tron arrived a couple of years ago as the brand's first mass-production electric vehicle, and now the all-new e-tron GT has arrived as Audi's next EV. Although both models share the e-tron name, the e-tron GT is conceptually as far removed from its crossover counterpart as you can imagine.

A series of teasers exposed us to much of the e-tron GT's sleek shape, and the production version you see here does not disappoint. Even better, Audi has simultaneously revealed a high-performance variant called the RS e-tron GT. Both four-door coupes combine style with a powerful, all-electric drivetrain.

The exterior is characterized by large wheels, a low-slung body, and a wide track. Not only does the e-tron GT look like it's gliding through the air, but the low 0.24 drag coefficient ensures that it actually is. A rear spoiler that can be extended in several stages and switchable air inlets form part of the active aerodynamic features.

The e-tron GT is almost the same length as the Audi A7 but is both wider and lower. In front, HD Matrix-design headlights can be specified along with laser light for even greater high-beam illumination. On the RS, a five-layer carbon fiber reinforced plastic roof is standard. For the first time on an Audi, the radiator grille has a body-color finish. At the back, the full-width light band is a stylish addition. 20-inch wheels are standard and 21s are optional. Like the Audi TT in the 1990s, this could very well become another modern Audi design icon. The glamorous and sporty exterior is the first sign that this is an extremely powerful luxury EV.

With combined outputs of 469 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque between the front and rear electric motors, the e-tron GT quattro can reach 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 152 mph. However, up to 522 hp and 472 lb-ft is available in overboost mode when launch control is being used.

The even more powerful RS e-tron GT produces 590 hp and 612 lb-ft (or 637 hp with overboost), enabling 0-60 mph in only 3.1 seconds and a limited top speed of 155 mph. That's quicker than the Porsche Taycan although not as quick as the Taycan Turbo. A two-speed transmission is linked to the rear electric motor with a short-ratio first gear for maximum acceleration. Audi says that an authentic synthetic sound has been developed for the e-tron GT based on data such as speed and load. In Dynamic mode, the sound is amplified in the cabin.

As with many other high-performance Audis, quattro all-wheel drive is standard. Here, the electric AWD system sends power to all four corners most of the time, but in the e-tron's efficiency mode, front-wheel drive is prioritized. Audi says that depending on changing conditions like quick cornering or slippery surfaces, this electric system makes changes around five times as fast as the mechanical quattro system. A three-chamber air suspension ships as standard, while the RS comes with standard all-wheel steering.

With a high-voltage lithium-ion battery positioned between the front/rear axles and at the GT's lowest point, an almost perfect weight distribution is achieved. The 93.4-kWh battery makes use of an 800-volt system to improve charging times. As standard and using 11 kW AC charging, the e-tron GT can be fully recharged overnight.

However, the GT has a maximum charging capacity of up to 270 kW when making use of DC fast charging. In this scenario, a five-minute charge is enough to add 62 miles of range, while charging from five to 80 percent can take under 23 minutes if the conditions are suitable. Based on the WLTP cycle, the e-tron GT quattro has a range of around 303 miles while the RS e-tron GT isn't far behind with a range of just over 293 miles. Official EPA ratings haven't yet been announced, but Audi estimates 238 miles in the standard e-tron GT and 232 miles in the RS.

Inside, Audi's usual attention to detail is evident. It has been designed to promote a sensation of space, while the low seating position and wide center console provides a sporty feel. Audi has used sustainable materials wherever possible. For instance, Dinamica and Alcantara materials are standard, although Nappa leather will be available as an option. Certain recycled materials are employed, with the polyester fibers fashioned from used plastic bottles and textiles.

The e-tron GT is impressively equipped, though. It comes standard with power-adjustable seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and the availability of capacitive hands-on detection. Audi's now-common digital displays can be used to access most features. The 12.3-inch virtual cockpit is complemented by a center 10.1-inch MMI touch display. A Wi-Fi hot spot, navigation, and a 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system are on offer.

Naturally, there are plenty of driver-assist technologies to safely navigate congested city streets and highways. In Europe, Audi pre sense front, pre sense basic, and lane departure warning are standard. For an added cost, customers can spec night vision, a surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, and remote parking. The latter system can enable the driver to park the GT using the myAudi smartphone app.

As for pricing, the range begins with the e-tron GT quattro Premium Plus at $99,900, followed by the Prestige at $107,100. The high-performance RS e-tron GT tops the lineup with an MSRP of $139,900. However, the e-tron GT may qualify for federal tax incentives of up to $7,500. The new e-tron GT is slated to make its way to the US this summer.