MYTHICAL MACHINE |
Audi took the South African EV market by storm earlier this year when it simultaneously launched several e-tron models in Cape Town. We tested the S Sportback 370 kW quattro for a weekend and were impressed by the car’s all-around usability.
Audi’s dominance in the South African EV market was confirmed at the start of the year when the company introduced a range of e-tron models here. Our recent stint in the impressive, if quite pricey S Sportback 370 kW quattro in “myth black” proved once again that EVs are far superior in terms of technology than most internal combustion engine (ICE) cars, although we still have some way to go before local roads are saturated with EVs.
This has less to do with the cars than with current pricing structures, as local importers are forced to charge elevated prices due to onerous import taxes on electric vehicles.
At its base price of R2,425,000, the e-tron S Sportback 370 kW quattro compares with substantially larger and significantly more premium ICE products such as the recently unveiled New Range Rover, the Mercedes-Benz GLS, and BMW’s X7 SUVs. Yet, it competes directly with cars such as the Velar, GLC and X3 from the same manufacturers.
That said, the e-tron represents a giant leap forward in propulsion technology and will appeal to the well-healed who want to make a bold statement.
STATS AT A GLANCE
On paper, the e-tron is a performance fiend that will accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, and reach a top speed of 210 km/h. With a battery capacity of 95 kWh, it will deliver around 347 to 378 km of range (WLTP figures), ideal for city driving and short trips to the countryside.
Our test unit also came with R376,600 worth of optional extras, including night vision assist, a panoramic glass sunroof, Audi phone box (with wireless charging), LED door projector lights, head-up display, and a menacing-looking black styling package.
EV-related extras included a second charging access point, an AC on-board charger of up to 22 kW, and a 22 kW “connect” charging system. An industrial cable for a three-phase 32A charger comes at no extra cost, and with every e-tron purchase, customers will receive a free home charger installation with an industrial plug point.
IMPRESSIVE DRIVE
In daily running and highway cruising, the weight of the e-tron S Sportback is well-masked. The ride quality is comfortable with virtually no body roll. But prompt it to corner at pace – even in its firmest suspension settings – and it’s evident that this is a vehicle of considerable weight.
In its sportier drive modes, the e-tron S’ steering communicates better than in other modes, which can feel too light when weaving along a challenging stretch of winding road.
Meanwhile, the Audi’s ride is oh-so-quiet. Unlike many ICE counterparts, the e-tron S is almost devoid of tyre hum, wind rustle and mechanical noise.
LAST WORD
Audi’s premium all-electric SUV certainly hits the spot. It’s quiet, comfortable, and beautifully built, while the vast array of tech and semi-autonomous drive features fitted to our test car make it one of the most engaging to drive. The e-tron is practical, too, with loads of space for the family and all their luggage. However, its true abilities are restricted by South Africa’s charging network. As the infrastructure improves, the SUV’s appeal is sure to grow with it.
If you like the idea of a premium electric SUV and can live with the available charging options, the Audi e-tron rates as one of the best of a small but impressive bunch.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © AUDI SOUTH AFRICA
