Audi is bringing its second electric vehicle (EV), the 2020 Audi E-Tron Sportback, to the U.S. this summer. The model is a slightly different take on the traditional E-Tron crossover, with a sloped, fastback-like roofline and more efficient powertrain.
The new two-row SUV is virtually the same as its sister E-Tron up front with most major changes coming halfway back. It drops off at the angled D-pillars for a rear that is in vogue with how other German automakers are designing their new SUVs these days.
U.S.-bound versions of the model have exterior trim components that are painted the same color as the SUV’s body color – including the wheel arch trims, door sills, bumpers, and exterior mirrors. It rides on standard 20-inch wheels and every E-Tron Sportback comes with an air suspension.
Buyers can opt for the Black Optics package to give their model a little pizzaz.Photo courtesy of Audi AG
Buyers can add on the Black Optics package, which offers black accentuations for the signature Singleframe grille, side windows, bumpers, and exterior mirror housings.
Each E-Tron Sportback is all-wheel drive. It has a 95 kWh battery that helps deliver 355 horsepower in the car’s standard driving mode. Drivers who engage Boost mode have access to 402 horsepower, which moves the car from zero to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds.
Drivers can regenerate power while coasting or braking, which contributes about 30 percent of the model’s total 218-mile range. During most driving situations, the car relies solely on a rear electric motor, which improves efficiency. It is slated to get 76 MPGe in the city, 78 MPGe on the highway, which is 2 and 5 MPGe better, respectively,
than the E-Tron.
The SUV can charge at 150 kilowatts, recovering 58 miles of range in just 10 minutes and 174 miles of range in 30 minutes. Audi says that 98 percent of all single-trip journeys in the U.S. are under 50 miles. When traveling beyond that and needed a charge, drivers can take advantage of the Electrify America nationwide charging network where owners receive 1,000 kWh of charging – the equivalent of approximately 2,500 miles of range – from Audi at no additional cost with purchase.
This model features a fastback roofline.Photo courtesy of Audi AG
The E-Tron Sportback has a towing capacity of up to 4,000 pounds when equipped with the available towing package.
The list of standard equipment in the cabin is competitive for the car’s price point and includes standard heated and cooled front seats and an overhead camera view, which is handy for parking in tight spaces. Options include massaging front seats, and an improved suite of safety and driver assistance technology.
The design of the interior and technology is nearly identical to what is offered in the Audi E-Tron.
Audi will sell a celebratory limited edition E-Tron Sportback Launch Edition with its own lineup of features including an exclusive Plasma blue metallic paint and Dynamic orange brake calipers. Alu-optic trim will highlight design elements, including the unique S-line front and rear bumpers. The model also gets an exclusive interior in Monaco Gray Valcona leather seating surface with two-tone stitched dash and black headliner. It also comes with puddle lamps.
The car’s interior is similar to the one in the E-Tron SUV.Photo courtesy of Audi AG
The 2020 Audi E-Tron Sportback has a starting price of $77,400, which is $2,600 more than the E-Tron.
