Audi e-tron Sportback review

The Audi e-tron has been around for a couple of years now. It was one of the first big, premium electric SUVs – along with models like the Jaguar I-Pace, Tesla Model X and Mercedes EQC – majoring on comfort, quality and the ability to charge in double-quick time.

But now, Audi has launched a sleeker, sportier model called the e-tron Sportback. It’s a rakish, coupe-styled version of the standard SUV, with the same mechanical platform, the same electric motor, and the same tech-filled interior. But are the compromises when it comes to space and practicality worth the extra style and higher price?

To many, it’ll be the visually more attractive option, but at 4.9 metres nose-to-tail, it’s just as long, if ever so slightly narrower. From the front, the Sportback looks identical to its standard SUV sibling. But at the rear it’s a different story; the roofline dips away sooner, while the revised beltline gives it a small lip spoiler and a taller back end.

Inside, the Sportback offers the same hi-tech, classy cabin as the conventional e-tron SUV. There’s no entry-level Technik or Sport trims to choose from, but by stepping up to the well-package S line, you get a raft of standard equipment. The long list includes a pair of central touchscreens – one for the infotainment system and another for the climate control – as well as a set of fully-digital Virtual Cockpit dials and Valcona leather seats. There’s a set of 21-inch wheels, standard-fit 150kW rapid charging and Matrix LED headlights.

There’s very little compromise to be made when it comes to practicality, either. The e-tron is a big car, with a huge boot and enough room inside for taller adults to get comfortable – despite that sloping roofline. There’s a neat storage area for the charging cables under the bonnet.

But those generous dimensions mean the e-tron feels big on the road. In fact, appears cumbersome on all but the widest motorways, making it a challenge to drive in town. This is a car with a powertrain perfectly suited to urban driving, but its size prevents it from ever being a truly enjoyable car to drive. Still, it rides wonderfully and it’s incredibly refined at high speeds.

Overall, the e-tron Sportback’s relatively modest price premium (around £1,600 more than the normal SUV if you ignore the fact it’s not available in those cheaper trims) makes it a worthy addition to the range. It’s a stylish, beautifully built and capable family car, with a decent range and the ability to charge faster than any of its main rivals. The fact it feels quite so cumbersome is a big black mark; the Jaguar I-Pace remains our favourite premium electric SUV.