The 2021 Audi e-tron, a trailblazing all-electric SUV, is a testament to Audi's dedication to sustainable mobility. This luxury vehicle entered the electric vehicle market as part of Audi's goal to launch over 30 electric cars and plug-in hybrids by 2025. The e-tron delivers not only on the promise of eco-friendliness but also provides an invigorating driving experience with precise steering, substantial grip, and assured handling.
The 2021 Audi e-tron comes in two variants: the standard e-tron SUV and the stylish e-tron Sportback, each available in three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. Each trim level offers a unique set of features ranging from an adaptive air suspension, roof rails, a power liftgate, LED headlights on the base Premium trim to upgraded LED headlights, a top-view camera system, a Bang & Olufsen 3D premium sound system on the Premium Plus trim. The Prestige trim adds even more luxurious touches like matrix-design LED headlights, a head-up display, massaging front seats, and heated rear seats. Despite facing production delays due to battery supply issues, the 2021 Audi e-tron still witnessed significant sales growth in 2022, indicating its popularity among consumers.
Here are the pros and cons of 2021 Audi e-tron:
Read on to learn more about the 2021 Audi e-tron in the following paragraphs.
The 2021 Audi e-tron boasts a luxurious and sophisticated interior, reflecting Audi's reputation for superior craftsmanship. The cabin is designed to offer a tranquil and spacious environment for all passengers, comfortably seating up to five individuals. Both front and rear seats provide ample space, accommodating taller adults with generous legroom and headroom. The dashboard stands out with its dual high-resolution touchscreens - a 10.1-inch screen for the infotainment system and an 8.6-inch screen for climate control and other vehicle settings. This sleek, modern setup may require some acclimation for new users.
The 2021 Audi e-tron has comfortable seats upholstered in standard leather, with heating and ventilation features for added comfort. The driver and front passenger seats are power-adjustable, while the top-tier Prestige trim comes with front seats that massage. It offers 28.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 57 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. Plus, a small additional storage area under the hood offers a convenient place for charging cables or other small items.
The 2021 Audi e-tron has an elegant and athletic exterior that combines traditional SUV proportions with distinctive features that highlight its electric power. The car's sleek, aerodynamic silhouette is designed to minimize drag and improve efficiency. The front end of the vehicle includes Audi's signature platinum gray Singleframe grille, indicating it's an electric model, and matrix-design LED headlights that enhance visibility and add sophistication.
The side profile of the e-tron showcases sculpted lines and pronounced wheel arches, emphasizing its dynamic character. It comes standard with 20-inch wheels, but an upgrade to 21-inch wheels is available for a more aggressive look. The charging port is subtly integrated into the design on the driver's side. At the rear, the e-tron features a full-width LED light strip, a roof spoiler, and a diffuser, enhancing its sporty look and improving aerodynamics. The absence of tailpipes subtly hints at its electric powertrain. In summary, the 2021 Audi e-tron's exterior beautifully combines traditional Audi design elements with features that highlight its cutting-edge electric status.
The 2021 Audi e-tron features a fully electric powertrain, comprised of two electric motors - one at the front axle and one at the rear. These motors draw energy from a 95-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Under normal driving circumstances, the combined output from these motors is 355 horsepower and 414 lb-ft of torque.
In Sport mode, the e-tron can temporarily boost its output to 402 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 5.5 seconds. The vehicle also employs an advanced Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which optimizes traction and handling by variably distributing power between the front and rear axles based on driving conditions. This contributes to the e-tron's dynamic performance and stability.
The 2021 Audi e-tron is powered by a robust 95-kWh lithium-ion battery, which fuels the vehicle's dual electric motors and is integral to its performance and range. Audi has made enhancements in the available battery capacity and efficiency for the 2021 model, resulting in an increased driving range. The standard e-tron now boasts an EPA-estimated range of 222 miles on a full charge, marking an increase of 18 miles from the previous model, while the Sportback variant is capable of covering a distance of 218 miles on a single charge.
Regarding battery life, most electric vehicles, including the 2021 Audi e-tron, are engineered to retain their charge effectively over time. The batteries typically come with a warranty protecting against capacity loss for up to 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever occurs first. However, the actual lifespan of the battery can vary depending on several factors such as driving habits, charging practices, and environmental conditions.
The 2021 Audi e-tron is equipped with an array of advanced safety features, marking it as a top choice for those who prioritize safety in electric vehicles. The vehicle has received high ratings from reputable organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The IIHS noted that the e-tron successfully avoided a collision in a 37 mph test, issuing a warning 2.3 seconds before impact. It also comes with safety measures including forward collision and rear cross-traffic warnings, automatic emergency braking, and other active safety features.
The NHTSA gave the e-tron a maximum five-star overall safety rating, with top scores in all categories except for the frontal crash, where it received four stars. Additionally, the IIHS awarded the e-tron its highest safety honor - the Top Safety Pick+ award for 2022 models. In summary, the 2021 Audi e-tron boasts impressive safety credentials, offering drivers considerable assurance on the road.
There you have it! The 2021 Audi e-tron is a versatile electric SUV that combines performance, safety, and luxury in one package. Its dual-motor electric powertrain offers strong performance, while its array of advanced safety features and top ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS makes it a safe choice. The e-tron also stands out for its comfort, with high-end materials and a spacious cabin that makes every journey feel like a first-class experience. Its Quattro all-wheel-drive system and impressive handling make for a fun and engaging driving experience.
However, while the e-tron has a lot to offer, it's not without its minor drawbacks. Its range is slightly lower compared to some rivals, and its premium price tag might be a stumbling block for some. But as the saying goes, quality doesn't come cheap. Overall, the 2021 Audi e-tron is highly recommended for anyone looking for an electric vehicle that delivers power, safety, and comfort. It's a vehicle that checks all the boxes, making it a compelling choice for those ready to embrace the electric revolution.
