2022 Audi e-tron Sportback Review

The 2022 Audi e-tron Sportback is the sporty version of the regular all-electric e-tron SUV. Its sloping rear roofline adds style, but you sacrifice a little cargo space and rear headroom in the process. You also give up a bit of range. The e-tron Sportback has an EPA-estimated driving range of 218 miles compared to the regular e-tron's estimated range of 222 miles. The difference is tiny, but either way you're on the short end of range for a luxury SUV, as many rivals can boast of 300 miles or more of range.

The e-tron Sportback's dual motors provide 355 horsepower, and that increases to 414 hp when in the temporary Boost mode. Acceleration is brisk, and the Sportback can hit 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, but Boost mode must be engaged. The separately reviewed e-tron S Sportback produces 496 hp and hits 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. When the juice runs low, it takes about 10 hours to charge the Sportback's 95-kWh battery pack using a Level 2 (240-volt) charger. But if you use a public DC fast charger, a low battery can charge to 80% capacity in about 30 minutes.

The e-tron Sportback is an interesting choice for an electric SUV. It's supremely comfortable, has a quiet and well-built interior, and packs many standard luxury, tech and safety features. However, its infotainment system isn't the easiest to use and its short driving range can limit its usefulness for long-distance trips. If those drawbacks are making you consider alternatives, check out the BMW iX, Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, and Tesla Model Y or Model X. Audi's new Q4 Sportback e-tron, which is a smaller electric SUV, is another good choice if you need something with a lower price.

The 2022 Audi e-tron Sportback is offered in three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. Power is derived from a 95-kWh battery pack and sent to front- and rear-mounted motors, making the e-tron Sportback all-wheel-drive. Power output is 355 horsepower and 414 lb-ft of torque, and the Boost mode increases that to 402 hp and 490 lb-ft for up to 8 seconds. The EPA-estimated range is 218 miles. Feature highlights include: