Audi is preparing the Q4 e-tron compact crossover for the luxury-EV spotlight when it launches in early 2022. Adding to the growing lineup of all-electric e-tron models, the Q4 will accompany the e-tron SUV and the future e-tron GT sedan when it eventually goes on sale. It’ll be the first Audi to use Volkswagen’s MEB modular electric vehicle platform. The Q4 e-Tron will go up against other small luxury electric SUVs such as the Tesla Model Y and the Volvo XC40 Recharge when it goes on sale in 2022. It’ll offer an 82.0-kWh battery with a range of up to 280 miles. Unlike the larger e-tron SUV, this smaller model will seat only four. A fastback Q4 e-tron Sportback model is also expected to be available and was previewed by a concept car in July 2022.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

With an electric motor powering each axle, the all-wheel drive Q4 e-tron makes a stout 300 horsepower. The result is a claimed zero-to-60-time of 6.3 seconds. That’s not as quick as the gasoline-powered Audi Q5 SUV, but it’s still brisk compared with other compact luxury crossovers. An adaptive suspension should keep the ride smooth, but since the Q4 e-tron is still a concept car, we haven’t had the chance to drive it to evaluate its ride and handling.

Range, Charging, and Battery Life

The Q4 e-tron’s 82.0-kWh battery pack has a target range of 280 miles. This is pre-EPA testing so expect that number to change once the crossover goes on sale. The vehicle supports charging up to 125-kW and, according to Audi, the state-of-charge can hit 80 percent in about 30 minutes.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The EPA hasn’t released any estimates for the Q4 e-tron’s fuel economy, but we expect it to be competitive with other electric SUVs such as the Jaguar I-Pace and the Tesla Model X. Once we get a Q4 e-tron to our office for testing, we’ll complete our 200-mile highway fuel economy route and update this story with results.

Interior, Comfort , and Cargo

The interior is a technological showcase of all of Audi’s latest and greatest gadgets. A digital gauge display is standard, and a large infotainment touchscreen is angled toward the driver for easier access to its various menus and features. The Q4 e-tron concept is strictly a four-seater, with front and rear bucket seats covered in faux-suede upholstery with metal e-tron–branded detailing under the headrests. Interior space should be about the same as the gas-powered Q5, which is plenty roomy for four adults and their cargo.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Q4 e-tron will have the latest version of Audi’s MMI system. We expect that it will have two displays in the center. The upper screen will have the usual navigation, media controls, and smartphone connections; the display situated below will house climate controls, quick access to frequently used features, and a writing tablet that drivers can use to scribble out letters and numbers instead of using an onscreen keyboard. We expect a Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless charging for compatible smartphones.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

It’s too soon for crash test ratings from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). But we expect the Q4 e-tron to have driver-assistance technology available like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and maybe even a self-parking mode like the e-tron SUV.