Audi Q4 e-tron

Q4 e-tron in brief

The Q4 e-tron has been in production since 2021 at the Zwickau plant in Germany. Built on Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform for electric vehicles, it shares its underpinnings with the Volkswagen ID.4 and Škoda Enyaq, but boasts its own design, a more premium interior, and Audi’s multimedia system.

In terms of exterior dimensions, the Q4 is close to the Q3, but offers more space inside, especially in the rear, thanks to its flat floor and battery tucked underneath. The Sportback version has a more sloping rear, looks sportier, but offers slightly less headroom in the back.

Early Q4 vs. updated version — what’s the difference

Early Q4 e-tron models (2021–2023) were offered as the 35 e-tron and 40 e-tron with rear-wheel drive, and quattro versions (e.g., 50 quattro) with all-wheel drive. The initial software received criticism for glitches, so later updates significantly improved it.

2023 Q4 tech refresh: a new, more powerful rear-drive engine is introduced, and some versions are renamed (e.g., 45 e-tron and 55 quattro). The manufacturer also points to faster charging. The refreshed Q4 looks almost identical on the outside, so it's worth checking the version via the documents when buying.

Versions, batteries, and charging

The 35 e-tron has a smaller, approximately 52 kWh usable battery, while the 40 e-tron and more powerful versions have a larger, approximately 77 kWh battery. According to the manufacturer's (WLTP) data, the 35 e-tron covers around 340 km, and the 40 e-tron covers more than 500 km; quattro versions cover slightly less due to the two engines.

In reality, especially on the motorway, the range is often lower, and in winter, you often have to count on about 20–30% less than in summer, and even more when driving short distances. The heat pump in the Q4 has often been an optional extra, so it's worth looking for a car with it when driving in winter.

The Q4 charges via a CCS2 connector: with alternating current usually up to 11 kW, at fast-charging stations smaller battery versions charge more slowly, larger ones faster, and the charging power of updated cars is even higher according to the manufacturer. A cold battery charges more slowly, so it's worth pre-heating it before fast charging in winter.

What to check when buying a used Q4 e-tron

The most important thing is the battery's condition. Ask an Audi service technician or diagnostic expert for a battery health (SoH) report, compare the displayed range when the battery is charged to 100% with the new car's data, and ask how often fast charging was used.

Check if the software has been updated and if the multimedia, cameras, and assist systems are working smoothly. Test charging with alternating current and at a fast-charging station, ensure the charging cable is included, and check if the car has a heat pump.

Inspect the tyres and brakes — brakes are used less in an electric vehicle, so the discs might rust. Check the history via the VIN, and after an incident, definitely have the battery protection and high-voltage system checked at a service centre.

Trim levels and versions

Trim names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common Q4 e-tron versions found in Europe.

Comparison of Q4 e-tron versions

Most buyers' top pick is the 40 or refreshed 45 e-tron with a heat pump. The 35 e-tron is ideal for city driving, while quattro is the way to go if you often tackle slippery roads.

Frequently asked questions