Audi design boss reckons the e-tron GT is the best car he’s ever designed, and we’d second that. With its short overhangs and wide track, the e-tron GT is low, sleek and handsome. The Audi singleframe grille no longer needs to feed air to a combustion engine, so it’s partly filled in a honeycomb-effect panel, with just two controllable inlets to supply the front brakes and the thermal management with cooling air. The lean and sculpted profile features quattro-style blisters over the wheel arches and the rear is dominated by a large air diffuser. Even though there’s a low roofline, there’s still plenty of room inside for five adults, with recesses in the floor to give rear seat passengers extra legroom. The boot has a 405-litre capacity and there’s a smaller 81-litre trunk in front. Audi has gone for a classic Gran Turismo ambience to the well-equipped interior. Sustainable materials are used widely, yet the effect of contemporary luxury is at its best; examples include floor mats made of old fishing nets, while the figure-hugging sports seats are also upholstered in recycled polyester (leather is available as an option).
Features
The Audi e-tron GT combines electric efficiency with the performance and aesthetics of Audi Sport. The GT is powered by two electric motors, giving all-wheel drive and a combined power output of 469bhp, with 523bhp available for brief bursts on overboost. The distinctive character of electric power is stunning acceleration thanks to maximum torque from zero rpm. With 630Nm of torque this gives the e-tron GT quattro a 0-62mph time of just 4.1 seconds and has a top speed of 152mph. Audi has also given the silent electric motors a sound reminiscent of its Audi Sport siblings which, as an optional extra, can be adjusted via the Audi drive select system. Range from the battery is up to 298 miles on a single charge, depending on conditions and the way you choose to drive it. The e-tron GT has a 270kW charging capacity, meaning you can charge the battery from 5-80% in as little as 22.5 minutes with a high powered rapid charger. Audi’s e-tron Charging Service offers access to around 200,000 charging points in Europe using just a single card.
Technology
All displays and controls operate via the 12.3” digital Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus; this can be controlled via the multifunction steering wheel, the central 10” MMI touch display or a ‘natural language’ voice command function. The free myAudi app allows you to control the charging processes and pre-entry climate control from your smartphone.
Safety
Pre-sense technology comes as standard in the e-tron GT quattro, working to detect collision hazards. Adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera and remote parking pilot are available as optional upgrades. You can also choose between three systems for the LED headlights: standard with dynamic indicators, matrix LED headlights or matrix LEDs in combination with the Audi Laser Lights system.
