Audi has prolonged the Etron GT line-up with a extra accessible mannequin. But with electrical all-wheel drive, a excessive stage of consolation, and 370 kW (503 bhp), it’s hardly what most would contemplate entry-level. A extra responsive drivetrain and well-tuned chassis are actually matched by considerably improved vary.
The Etron GT might not be new, however it nonetheless seems daring, athletic and fashionable. It grabs consideration. Fairly why the facelift prevented any visible modifications stays a intently guarded secret in Böllinger Höfe, the place the four-door electrical GT is constructed. A refreshed design would have been welcome, simply as it might on its sibling, the Porsche Taycan, which additionally noticed minimal beauty updates.
Not like Porsche, Audi has caught to its core method. The up to date Etron GT will get a bigger 105 kWh battery however no rear-wheel-drive model, which may have unlocked additional vary. As an alternative, Audi stays true to its Quattro id, with all-wheel drive and loads of energy — as much as 430 kW and 625 Nm in enhance mode.
Efficiency figures are unchanged. Zero to 62 mph takes simply 4.0 seconds, with prime pace restricted to 245 km/h (152 mph). It’s fast sufficient for the overwhelming majority of drivers. What is going to matter extra is the elevated official vary, now as much as 575 km, and the battery’s capability to fast-charge at 320 kW. Consumption is rated at 17.8 to 19.3 kWh/100 km, though that is solely achievable with a really gentle proper foot. On a home wallbox, charging remains to be restricted to 11 kW, however from 10 to 80 p.c takes solely 18 minutes on a high-speed charger. That’s helpful, particularly for the reason that show typically reveals nearer to 460 km of real-world vary. Boot capability is an unremarkable 405 litres, however the 77-litre entrance compartment provides some flexibility.
On the street, the Etron GT remains to be a pleasure to drive. Suspension and damping really feel properly judged, particularly given the low centre of gravity. Steering suggestions is exact and pure. Braking, nevertheless, stays barely inconsistent, significantly through the transition from regenerative to mechanical braking — a reminder of the automotive’s 2.4-tonne kerb weight. Via quick corners it tends to push huge, although the driver-adjustable regeneration helps mitigate this. A 3rd, stronger regen setting can be welcome.
The cabin is wise and cozy, although not significantly spacious. The frustration lies in the usual specification. For a base value of €108,900, it appears stingy to supply artificial leather-based seats with restricted adjustment, no rear seat heating and no head-up show.
White exterior paint and 19-inch wheels additionally really feel too primary at this stage. The brand new steering wheel feels good however brings no actual benefit, and its touch-sensitive controls are much less intuitive than earlier than.
Choices that must be customary — similar to a 360-degree digital camera (€680), matrix LED or laser lights (€4,280), head-up show (€1,400), driver help techniques (from €1,300), rear-wheel steering (€1,900), or consolation seats — can shortly push the worth above €130,000. That stated, few patrons will really feel compelled to maneuver as much as the S or RS variations. With 625 Nm of torque and robust mid-range efficiency, this base Etron GT is already a lot quick. Large-ticket upgrades like energetic suspension with pitch and roll management (€7,000) or tungsten carbide-coated brakes (€3,400) can simply be skipped. It’s fast, succesful and satisfying simply as it’s.
