Design and Exterior
The Audi Q4 has a really nice exterior design. With e-tron badges, it’s very clear it is an Electric vehicle. This SUV is designed to be like an Audi gas SUV in terms of its function and design except instead of having a gas engine, it has an electric motor.
This similar design language is a very welcome thing since making the step from gas to electric doesn’t seem to have a steep learning curve compared to buying a Tesla.
While the finish is very typical Audi like, it should be noted that the Audi Q4 does not come with a frunk unlike Tesla.
Performance
Behind the wheel, the Audi Q4 delivers a smooth and powerful performance featuring 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque.
The driving experience is enhanced by responsive handling and a range of powerful engine options. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Q4 provides a dynamic and enjoyable ride.
Compared to other Audi’s such as the A4, A5, or even the Q3 I would say that the steering is definitely more refined but also a bit tighter.
If you are coming from a BMW, you will likely like the handling.
Range Anxiety
Range anxiety is a real thing. At 100% the car gets about 390km of range. Remembering that you can only charge to 80%, you are likely getting a daily range of 325km. Consider winter and using the heat (sans heat pump on most 2023/2024 models) you are likely closer to 290km.
I think if Audi could get ranges closer to the dual motor Tesla’s, it could be a real game changer.
Buying the car from Audi Canada, you get 4 “free” years of Electrify Canada. The challenge is trying to find the charger locations. Audi has signed up for Tesla’s NACS charger and hopefully they will offer with a retrofit or some kind of adapter in the future.
Let’s be honest here, Tesla has an excellent charging infrastructure with very strategic locations. I was not able to find an Electrify Canada charger within 40kms of me.
Interior and Comfort
The interior of the Q4 is definitely one of the biggest parts where it shines. As per any Audi, they have an impressive interior with premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship. There is also a lot of storage. Storage is found below the MMI, and multiple places on the doors.
Technology
Audi in the USA vs Canada are really 2 different companies. It is my honest opinion that the tech available in Canada is subpar even tho it’s equivalent in the USA generally works fine.
I had a lot of problems with my 2019 Audi A5 with regards to the Connectivity and Audi Connect. Traffic never worked properly!
The Audi Q3 wasn’t much better because the MyAudi app was basically useless.
The Audi Q4 greatly improves upon this in Canada. Traffic now works pretty well. Wireless Apple CarPlay works pretty well. The charging base below the MMI is sufficient to fit an iPhone Pro Max.
Having the MMI angled towards the driver is a very welcome feature as well as it really makes the driver feel part of the vehicle.
Value for Money
If you are looking into a fully electric SUV, this is a great car to get. It is comparable to the Volkswagen ID4 and Tesla Model Y. If you like the simplistic nature and the Technology, the Tesla is still the cream of the crop for electric vehicles. With that said, the fit and finish of the Audi is one of the best in the business.
Conclusion
In summary, the Audi Q4 stands out in the luxury SUV market across various aspects. From its eye-catching design to its impressive performance and advanced technology (maybe more in the US than Canada) the Q4 offers a well-rounded package for those seeking a compact SUV that excels in both style and substance.
