LA Auto Show 2019
2020 Audi E-Tron Sportback continues automaker's EV-focused future
The new Audi E-Tron Sportback made its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show last week.
The car is a four-door crossover with fastback-like styling similar to what you'll find in the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe. Its dimensions are similar to the Audi E-Tron, but it sits lower and its roof slopes at a steeper angle. Exterior design cements the vehicle's positioning as an Audi and as an electric vehicle with many of the design hallmarks of the larger E-Tron SUV carried over into this new model.
The new model features a fastback style roofline.Photo courtesy of Audi AG
The model is available in 13 different paint jobs including new plasma blue metallic, which is exclusive to the crossover.
E-Tron Sportback S Line models come standard with 20-inch wheels and a sport air suspension in a nod to the lineage of Audi's more performance-focused models. It also has a more heavily contoured bumper and air curtains, S Line badging, an illuminated aluminum door silver, rear diffuser, and specific graphics on the car's instrument cluster. A black styling package is available.
Audi will offer the model in two trim levels: 2020 Audi E-Tron Sportback 50 Quattro and the 2020 Audi E-Tron Sportback 55 Quattro. Both models will have all-wheel drive.
The crossover is sleek but maintains the porportions of the E-Tron SUV.Photo courtesy of Audi AG
Only the E-Tron Sportback 55 Quattro will be sold in the U.S. That model has 413 lb-ft of torque that it gets from two electric motors, one attached to each axle. Using Sport mode, drivers can enjoy a brief burst of 489 pound-feet of torque to help get them off the line in a jiffy. Audi claims a zero to 62 mph time of 5.7 seconds. Its top speed is limited to 124 mph.
Audi has engineered the model to have 50:50 weight distribution, which is ideal for any vehicle. It rides on standard standard 255/55 R19 size tires. Up to 22-inch wheels are available.
Because of slight design differences, the model is more fuel efficient than the E-Tron SUV.Photo courtesy of Audi AG
The new crossover has a 277-mile range in European testing thanks to its 95 kWh battery, but EPA estimates are expected to lower that by about 60 in for U.S. customers. The SUV can be charged up to 80 percent in under an hour at a 150-kW fast-charging station.
Most of the car's interior is identical to the Audi E-Tron SUV. Some of the fancier technology, like matrix LED headlights and cameras instead of side mirrors won't be coming to the U.S. due to government regulation.
The E-Tron SUV and E-Tron Sportback have very similar interiors.Photo courtesy of Audi AG
The car does have some nifty tech like dual screens in the center console that control infotainment and climate controls. The top screen is 12.1 inches and the lower is 8.6 inches. Audi virtual cockpit is standard and features a 12.3-inch screen in front of the driver.
Despite the car's fastback shape, headroom in the rear seats is diminished by on 20 mm in the new model compared to the E-Tron SUV.
The Audi e-tron Sportback can be ordered as of the end of November. It will arrive at European dealerships in the spring and reach the U.S. later.
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