You possibly can’t truly purchase a Batmobile or a Turtle Van, however you possibly can drive Iron Man’s automobile in actual life.
The Audi e-tron GT starred in Avengers Endgame movie pushed by Tony Stark in idea kind, and has since launched to the general public – together with one occasion hosted by Robert Downey Jr. himself.
Not a lot modified within the e-tron GT’s transition from idea to manufacturing, retaining its attractive traces and distinctive lighting. Whereas its Porsche Taycan sibling has obtained a lot fanfare, the Audi is arguably the prettier sister.
First revealed in 2021, the manufacturing e-tron GT lastly arrived in Australian showrooms final 12 months, having been delayed on a number of events.
Whereas technically sitting below Porsche within the Volkswagen Group hierarchy, the e-tron GT begins at the next value than the Taycan ($182,400 v $164,400) because of the Audi not providing an entry-level single-motor variant. In comparison with the equal Taycan 4S nevertheless, the e-tron GT boasts a $23,000 value benefit.
The headline act of the e-tron GT vary is understandably the RS model, with its stomach-churning 3.3-second dash from 0-100km/h and the title of the primary all-electric RS mannequin in Audi Sport’s historical past. Nonetheless, the ‘base’ variant has lots to supply.
Little differentiates it visually from the RS efficiency hero, whereas nonetheless providing lots efficiency and extra vary. Whereas our tester’s Ibis White paint is a bit of demure for one thing so stunning, there’s an air of exclusivity in regards to the e-tron GT that few different luxurious sedans can supply at this value level – electrical or in any other case.
How a lot does the Audi e-tron GT value?
2024 Audi e-tron GT: $182,4002024 Audi RS e-tron GT: $251,100
Costs exclude on-road prices
To see how the e-tron GT shapes up in opposition to its rivals, use our comparability device.
What’s the Audi e-tron GT like on the within?
The inside design of the e-tron GT is a bit of toned down in comparison with the outside, however isn’t that the Audi means?
As we’ve come to anticipate, the cabin focuses on simplicity, ergonomics, and high quality. Whereas it’s not as flashy because the Taycan’s cockpit, it’s a beautiful place to be.
Some might discover it a bit too plain for a automobile costing virtually $200,000; although we can’t fault the tactility and luxury. You actually really feel just like the e-tron GT wraps round you, and it’s splendidly comfy.
There’s the same old 12.3-inch Audi digital cockpit high-resolution instrument cluster, augmented by a color head-up show forward of the driving force in addition to a ten.1-inch HD touchscreen navigation system operating Audi’s related companies together with Google Earth mapping.
Even earlier than you hook up your iOS or Android gadget by way of wi-fi mirroring, there’s loads of performance within the native system and it’s all quite simple and simple to make use of.
Full electrical adjustment is commonplace for the seats and steering wheel, that are good touches. I discovered an amazing driving place that was good and low whereas additionally providing implausible help and bolstering – this can be a ‘GT’ in any case.
The high-resolution shows are typical Audi in providing nice readability, simple to navigate menus and for the digital cockpit, loads of configurability. I admire the buttery clean animations and fast load occasions, which assist make Audi’s driver show a benchmark amongst the premium manufacturers.
I like me a head-up show, however the Audi’s unit will not be ground-breaking in execution and appears a bit of too easy for a automobile costing this a lot.
The low-mounted air vents on the centre stack additionally aren’t my favorite, although I’m a fan of the stable, clicky switchgear that’s refreshingly basic in comparison with at the present time’s pandemic of fiddly touch-capacity buttons.
The e-tron GT is billed as a four-door sedan however its coupe-like silhouette and sloping roofline don’t make for E-Class or S-Class ranges of rear lodging. That stated, I managed to suit behind my most popular driving place at 6’1, simply.
Facilities embody a 3rd zone of local weather management and directional air vents, a fold-down centre armrest with cupholders, however there are not any rear door pockets or map pockets if you’ll want to stow stuff for kiddies.
Talking of the little ones, when you’re planning on getting your youngsters to highschool shortly and native emissions-free, then there are ISOFIX and top-tether factors within the second row for his or her booster seats and capsules alike.
I will even be aware the rear bench has closely bolstered outer pews which makes this extra of a 4+1 seater just like the Taycan versus a correct five-seat sedan. The centre place could be very skinny and raised, which doesn’t make it notably comfy for an grownup and even bigger kids.
The usual e-tron GT presents a 405-litre baggage space, which isn’t enormous however not utterly off the tempo.
It’s additionally a useful 50L up on the Taycan (366L). There’s a further storage space below the bonnet up entrance, although Audi doesn’t quote a determine.
What’s below the bonnet?
The Audi e-tron GT is powered by a dual-motor electrical drive system.
With one electrical motor on every axle, the ‘entry-level’ e-tron GT develops system outputs of 350kW and 630Nm, that are upped to 390kW and 640Nm in enhance mode.
Just like the Porsche Taycan, there’s a two-speed transmission which is pretty uncommon in an EV, with e-quattro variable all-wheel drive facilitated by the twin electrical motors. It’s all fed by a 93kWh (gross) lithium-ion battery pack with 800V structure.
Zero to 100km/h takes a claimed 4.1 seconds, 0.8s slower than the flagship RS… however nonetheless mighty fast. Audi doesn’t quote a high pace for the e-tron GT, although international specs element a restricted high whack of 245km/h.
Audi quotes a driving vary of 540 kilometres for the e-tron GT on the older and extra lenient NEDC check cycle. International WLTP specs level to a 488km declare. Mixed vitality consumption is rated at 19.2kWh/100km.
The e-tron GT might be charged at as much as 270kW utilizing a DC charger, which may replenish 100km of vary in simply 5 minutes, and 5-80 per cent cost in 23 minutes. Sadly the usual e-tron GT can’t be upgraded to 22kW AC charging just like the RS e-tron GT.
How does the Audi e-tron GT drive?
Having spent restricted time behind the wheel of the Taycan, I used to be notably eager to discover the J1 platform that underpins the Porsche and Audi electrical twins.
As you’d anticipate of a high-end European efficiency automobile there’s a low-slung stance that’s noticeable as quickly as you hop into the driving force’s seat and set off in relative silence.
The faint noise at low speeds is the acoustic warning for pedestrians to allow them to know the automobile is approaching; it’s a bit UFO-like in sound with out feeling very contrived.
The principle distinction between the e-tron GT and Taycan in regular driving is the steering really feel. The Audi feels a contact lighter and assisted in comparison with the very direct Porsche, and whereas eager drivers will doubtless favor the higher suggestions of the Taycan, the Audi is not at all ‘boring’ to drive.
Even scooting round Melbourne throughout my commute, the e-tron GT feels related and opulent, while additionally providing nice consolation ranges courtesy of the usual adaptive air suspension and good sound insulation.
Go away the e-tron GT in the usual ‘auto’ mode within the drive choose system and the automobile’s on-board computer systems and methods will decide the very best stage of damping and response for the driving situations. I usually left it on this mode for common duties, solely ever flicking it into ‘dynamic’ for spirited stints.
You possibly can alter the trip peak when you ever have to jack the factor up for big pace humps or driveways. Not like the Q8 e-tron (neé e-tron), there’s no cool ‘allroad’ mode which has it sitting up like a rally automobile.
Anyway, there’s loads of efficiency even in its most relaxed setting, and there’s all-round competence for every day driving eventualities. It truly is an on a regular basis GT for the electrical age.
It’s an analogous story on the freeway, the place the e-tron GT comfortably sits at triple figures with out breaking a sweat, and presents a collection of lively security and help methods to maintain you on the straight and slender, whereas additionally taking the load off longer stints.
Dial it up a bit and the e-tron GT impresses with its sturdy efficiency and deft dynamics, even when it’s lacking the sting that you just would possibly anticipate of one thing that shares DNA with a Porsche.
Tipping the scales at 2350kg (kerb) it’s exhausting to defy physics, however this electrical Audi accelerates and corners impressively regardless of not being a extra track-honed RS. I’ve sampled the RS at Phillip Island and wow, that factor is foolish quick.
You possibly can really feel the e-tron GT’s heft in actually tight bends and fast adjustments of route, however props to Audi for creating an electrical automobile that’s genuinely fulfilling to punt round. And I say that with out the “for an EV” comply with up remark…
The controls are all pretty communicative however have that typical Audi layer of insulation. It’s good for consolation and ease of use, however doesn’t ship the final phrase in suggestions. In order for you the final word driver’s electrical grand tourer you may be finest to take a look at the Taycan.
I used to be left questioning if you actually need the RS e-tron GT when you’re spending your time on the street, because the acceleration the bottom automobile possesses is mighty sturdy. On paper 4.1 seconds to 100km/h will not be as spectacular as one thing beginning with a 2 or 3, however actually who’s counting from behind the wheel.
As you’d anticipate of a flagship luxurious mannequin, the e-tron GT is decked out with driver help methods for once you need to cruise for a bit.
Audi’s adaptive cruise help is a semi-autonomous freeway assistant that maintains a protected hole from the automobile in entrance, retains the e-tron GT centred in its lane, and may navigate stop-start metropolis site visitors. It’s nearly as good as the very best methods on the market, and tremendous intuitive in real-world use.
There’s commonplace blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert in case you miss approaching autos by way of the thick C-pillars, and there’s a encompass digital camera system to make sure you don’t scrape these fairly 20-inch alloys.
What do you get?
e-tron GT highlights:
Wheels, Suspension and Dynamics
20-inch alloy wheelsTyre restore kitAdaptive air suspension
Exterior
Acoustic automobile alerting system – exteriorFixed glass roofHeat-insulating, acoustic windscreenSingleframe grille in Hekla greyExterior mirrors in physique colourFull keyless entry, startElectric rear boot lid incl. gesture controlExterior mirrorsHeatedFoldingAuto-dimmingKerb-side perform, passenger sideHD Matrix LED headlights incl. Audi laser lightLED daytime operating lightsLED tail lightsDynamic indicators entrance, rearDynamic lighting scheme
Seating and Upholstery
Sport entrance seatsLeather-appointed upholsteryElectric entrance seat adjustment Seat heating, frontArtificial leather-based inside packageCentre consoleUpper dashboardDoor railsDoor armrestsInlays in Graphite gray
Inside
Deluxe auxiliary air conditioningPre-conditioning by way of MMI or MyAudi app3-zone local weather controlAuto-dimming rear-view mirrorDoor sill trims in aluminiumInterior lighting packageLight and rain sensor (auto lights, wipers)Sports activities contour 3-spoke steering wheelMultifunction plusFlat-bottomedElectric steering column adjustmentHeadlining in black clothFloor mats entrance, rear
Infotainment
Audi join plus12.3-inch Audi digital cockpitAudi smartphone interfaceWireless Apple CarPlayWireless Android AutoAudi telephone field gentle – Qi wi-fi chargingBang & Olufsen 3D sound system16 speakers15-channel amp710 wattsDAB+ digital radioHead-up show, colourMMI navigation plus incl. MMI touch10.1-inch touchscreen navigation systemVoice management incl. pure speech3D map displayMMI search
Choices
Premium plus bundle: $6400-$7500
20-inch alloy wheels 5-double spoke in black, diamond turned ($6400)20-inch alloy wheels in 5-spoke aero design in black, diamond turned ($7500)Color inside ambient lighting packagePrivacy glassAir high quality bundle incl. ioniserDoor sill trims with aluminium inlay, illuminated
Dinamica inside bundle: $8000
Sport plus entrance seats14-way adjustment4-way lumbar supportDinamica, synthetic leather-based upholsteryDinamica headliner, blackDinamica prolonged upholsteryCentre console surroundDoor insertsInstrument panel coverSteering wheel in Alcantara
Black exterior styling bundle: $4200
Black accentsSingleframe accentsSide door insertsFront, rear bumpersExterior door mirrors (high-gloss)Singleframe in physique color
Colors
Ibis WhiteFloret Silver metallicSuzuka Gray metallicDaytona Gray pearlKemora Gray metallicMythos Black metallicTango Pink metallic
Is the Audi e-tron GT protected?
The Audi e-tron GT hasn’t been crash examined by ANCAP or Euro NCAP – and is subsequently unrated.
Normal security options embody:
8 airbags360 diploma camerasAdaptive cruise assistAdaptive cruise management incl. cease/goDistance indicatorTraffic jam assistLane steerage assistAttention assistAudi pre-sense fundamental incl. pre-sense rearAudi pre-sense frontAutonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)Pedestrian detection (5-85km/h)Bike owner detection (5km/h+)Car to automobile (5-250km/h)Audi pre-sense rearCollision avoidance assistCross site visitors help rearExit warning systemIntersection crossing assistSide help (blind-spot monitoring)Flip assistTyre stress monitoring
How a lot does the Audi e-tron GT value to run?
Like the broader Audi vary, the e-tron GT is roofed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre new automobile guarantee.
Audi additionally covers the high-voltage battery of e-tron fashions for eight years or 160,000km – whichever comes first.
The e-tron GT and Q8 e-tron vary additionally rating six years of Chargefox public charging, scheduled servicing and roadside help as a part of buy.
These added aftersales perks are an amazing incentive as many rivals like BMW and Mercedes-Benz transfer away from these prolonged proprietor advantages.
We didn’t find yourself depleting the battery sufficient to warrant a cost, however we had been seeing vitality consumption within the low 20kWh/100km bracket, which might level to a 400-450km real-world vary.
CarExpert’s Tackle the Audi e-tron GT
Few EVs have lit a fireplace in me just like the e-tron GT did.
Past its film star appears (even in boring previous white), the Audi e-tron GT drives like a well-rounded GT no matter powertrain kind, and is effectively positioned relative to rival efficiency sedans.
I want to see an achievable driving vary nearer to 500 kilometres for one thing with this massive of a battery, and there’s not as a lot selection when it comes to color and inside trims for one thing this unique – check out the Taycan configurator and also you’ll be baffled on the breadth of selection there by comparability.
There’s quite a lot of automobile right here in your $200,000, and anybody that elements with their hard-earned for this shouldn’t be disenchanted. Whereas the four-ringed emblem at each ends might not carry the identical cachet because the storied Porsche crest, gross sales figures recommend the e-tron GT is simply as unique as its Taycan relative, if no more so.
I don’t actually see the purpose in spending one other $68,000 for the RS e-tron GT, until you want absolute bragging rights or intend to hit the observe. Actually, the ‘base’ automobile does every part you want and extra for public roads.
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