After announcing the European pricing, the time has come to talk about the e-tron for the U.S. market. No less than three trim levels will be available at launch, starting with the Premium Plus ($74,800) and topping off with the Prestige ($81,800) and First Edition ($86,700).
Arriving in North America in the second quarter of 2019, the e-tron comes loaded with equipment. Even in its most no-frills specification, the 95-kWh battery and dual-motor setup make even the Jaguar I-Pace blush as far as driving range is concerned.
EPA numbers haven’t been confirmed, but Audi is much obliged to promise more than 250 miles between charges. We’re more inclined to think Audi will get close to the 300-mile threshold, which seems adequate based on the capacity of the battery and efficiency of the drivetrain. The Jaguar, meanwhile, promises up to 240 miles on a full charge.
The question on everybody’s lips, however, is if the e-tron has the right stuff to take on the 295-mile Tesla Model X 100D. Even if it does not, don’t forget there’s a serious pricing difference between the Audi and the full-size electric SUV built in Fremont, California.
Leveling up from the Premium Plus to the Prestige adds massaging seats, parking assist technology, and a head-up display, among other high-tech features. The First Edition, on the other hand, comes with 21-inch wheels, limited-edition paintwork, and special trim for the cabin. A night-vision mode is also included in the $86,700 retail price.
As far as performance is concerned, zero to 60 miles per hour takes 5.5 seconds, and the electric motors are much obliged to propel the car at 124 miles per hour. This ties the e-tron with the I-Pace, but on the other hand, the Model X can hit 130 miles per hour. For those that are more interested in the practical aspect, how does 4,000 pounds of maximum towing sound to you, along with 57 cubic feet of cargo capacity?
EPA numbers haven’t been confirmed, but Audi is much obliged to promise more than 250 miles between charges. We’re more inclined to think Audi will get close to the 300-mile threshold, which seems adequate based on the capacity of the battery and efficiency of the drivetrain. The Jaguar, meanwhile, promises up to 240 miles on a full charge.
The question on everybody’s lips, however, is if the e-tron has the right stuff to take on the 295-mile Tesla Model X 100D. Even if it does not, don’t forget there’s a serious pricing difference between the Audi and the full-size electric SUV built in Fremont, California.
Leveling up from the Premium Plus to the Prestige adds massaging seats, parking assist technology, and a head-up display, among other high-tech features. The First Edition, on the other hand, comes with 21-inch wheels, limited-edition paintwork, and special trim for the cabin. A night-vision mode is also included in the $86,700 retail price.
As far as performance is concerned, zero to 60 miles per hour takes 5.5 seconds, and the electric motors are much obliged to propel the car at 124 miles per hour. This ties the e-tron with the I-Pace, but on the other hand, the Model X can hit 130 miles per hour. For those that are more interested in the practical aspect, how does 4,000 pounds of maximum towing sound to you, along with 57 cubic feet of cargo capacity?