2022 Audi e-tron GT Review

The 2022 Audi e-tron GT is an electric sport sedan that is similar in size to the Audi A7 and Porsche Panamera. The e-tron name has historically been used by Audi to differentiate electrified vehicles from their conventionally powered siblings. The most recent example is the company's first fully electric vehicle — the e-tron SUV — which debuted in 2019.

Unlike the e-tron crossover, the e-tron GT prioritizes performance and driving dynamics over ultimate utility, which is even more evident in the top-spec RS e-tron GT model. At the same time, the e-tron GT won't sacrifice efficiency or convenience in the search for speed. In a similar vein to the tangentially related Porsche Taycan, the Audi e-tron GT looks to combine the thrills of a sports car and refinement of a luxury sedan in one high-octane EV.

The 2022 Audi e-tron GT is offered in two flavors: the base e-tron GT Quattro and the RS e-tron GT. Both make use of a series of lithium-ion batteries in the floor of the vehicle with a combined capacity of 85 kilowatt-hours. That power is sent to two electric motors: one at the front axle and another at the rear. The rear motor is also equipped with a two-speed transmission, with the first gear used for aggressive acceleration.

Power output figures are converted from European standards and may vary slightly in the final U.S.-bound vehicles. The base e-tron GT Quattro is rated at 469 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque in typical driving conditions. The e-tron typically drives in second gear, but selecting the launch control mode forces the transmission to start in first. Doing so also temporarily boosts output to 522 hp and 472 lb-ft. Pin the accelerator in launch control mode, and Audi says the e-tron GT will hit 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds on its way to a 152-mph top speed.

The even more potent RS e-tron GT increases output to 590 hp and 612 lb-ft, with a similar launch mode that bumps power to 637 hp. That should get the RS from 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds with a 155-mph top speed.

In addition to the impressive power, overall performance is enhanced with plenty of mechanical features. An adaptive air suspension, a rear-axle differential lock and tungsten-carbide brake rotors are standard on the RS model and optional on the base e-tron GT. All-wheel steering and carbon-ceramic brake rotors are options for both models.

Initial estimates give the base e-tron GT a cruising range of 238 miles and the RS 232 miles, but these figures have not yet been confirmed by the EPA. The e-tron GT employs several aerodynamic tricks to achieve its lofty range targets, including a flat underbody and active grille shutters that can close for increased efficiency or open to cool the brakes under hard use. Even the wheels themselves feature additional blades to reduce turbulence. The result is a very slippery drag coefficient of 0.24 — a Toyota Prius or Tesla Model S yields a comparable figure.

Charging the e-tron GT is made easier with a charge port on both sides of the car. The passenger-side port also adds DC fast-charging capabilities up to 270 kW. At this maximum rate, up to 62 miles of range can be replenished in five minutes and should be able to charge from 5% of battery capacity to 80% in only 23 minutes under ideal conditions.

Rather than follow the solitary big touchscreen design from Tesla and Ford, the e-tron GT sticks with a more traditional layout, and for that, we're thankful. There are enough physical buttons to allow for quick adjustments without having to take your eyes off the road to swipe through on-screen menus. The touchscreen is also canted toward the driver for easier operation.

We haven't yet had the opportunity to examine the interior in person, but Audi assures us that the rear seats can accommodate adult passengers thanks to a low seating position and space for your feet under the front seats.

In keeping with the e-tron's eco-friendly theme, many of the interior materials are derived from recycled textiles and plastic bottles. These include the upholstery fabric, interior trim elements and the headliner.

Audi has historically been known for its smart use of technology, and the e-tron GT carries on this tradition. Unlike some emerging rivals, however, Audi takes a more pragmatic approach: It enhances a familiar interface rather than rewrite the book.

All of the typical advanced safety features (forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control) are standard or available. Other features include a head-up display, remote park assist, night vision and driver assistants that are found in many Audi vehicles and competitors.

To help drivers on long trips, a route planner integrated into the navigation system will suggest spots to recharge the battery. It will also precondition the battery temperature for optimal charge efficiency to get you back on the road as quickly as possible.