DIVA Drives

The generously-sized dashboard spans from door to door, gracefully incorporating the modern-look instrument panel, whilst the door trims harmoniously integrate the screens for the virtual exterior mirrors. Audi have achieved a world-first in using these virtual mirrors to replace classic side mirrors. This novel concept took a little getting used to, however, after a few hours, it began to feel like an improvement. Looking at the door mounted screens proved to be far less distracting than glancing out the window, with the screens flashing yellow whenever a car appeared in our blind spot. We found both front and rear seating to offer sufficient head, shoulder and leg room, with two adults and a child fitting comfortably in the back. The roominess of the vehicle extends to the luggage compartment, providing a capacity of 615 litres, plenty of space for a family airport run. This capacity can be increased to 1,665 litres with the rear seats folded flat. With fourzone climate control, ample storage space and several charging points located throughout the SUV, we found the interior of this Sportback to be a convenient and comfortable environment.

INFOTAINMENT & CONNECTIVITY

The cutting-edge cabin of the 2022 Sportback features numerous highresolution screens including two central, flush-mounted touchscreens (10.1-inch and 8.8-inch), along with a digital gauge cluster known as the Virtual Cockpit. We found the infotainment system with its clear graphics to be responsive and easy to navigate. This system is compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. An assortment of deluxe optional extras is available, including a head-up display and a Bang & Olufsen audio system.

An Electrifying Performance

When engaging the ignition of an Audi one expects to hear the roar of the engine but, with the e-tron, it’s a much quieter affair. Being a battery powered vehicle, the start-up is silent, reminding us of the environmentallyfriendly nature of this modern SUV.

Powering this vehicle are two electric motors, the first is located at the front axle and the second at the back. Combined, these motors deliver electronic all-wheel drive, although it is the rear motor that performs the bulk of the work. This dual motor setup, energised by a 432-celled lithium-Ion battery, generates 664Nm of torque and a maximum power output of 265kW. This enables the e-tron to accelerate from 0-100km/h in a respectable 6.6 seconds and to produce an electronically capped top speed of 200km/h. Performance wise, we found the 55 Sportback to be both spirited and well-balanced. As people have come to expect from electric vehicles, the acceleration is responsive, whilst the traditional and regenerative braking systems work together efficiently.

We experienced a deep sense of calmness as the kilometres rolled silently by, with the suspension of the vehicle adding greatly to the luxurious feel of the car. The e-tron also boasts impressive cornering abilities, with plenty of traction provided by the quattro drive. With a multitude of safety and driver assistance features included as standard, we could not have felt more at ease in this exceptional SUV.

BATTERY LIFE & CHARGING

The e-tron Sportback 55 quattro has an EPA estimated range of up to 446km. It can recharge 80% of its capacity in just under 30 minutes at fast-charging stations, with direct current (DC) at up to 150kW. However, recharging can take up to nine hours using more conventional 240-volt outlets.

Our Verdict

We found the Audi e-tron Sportback 55 quattro to be an exceptional vehicle, one that is designed for comfort and convenience. It boasts a range of novel features and provided us with a good sense of what to expect from premium car manufacturers in the future.

For more information or to book a test drive of your own, please call Audi Qatar on 4445 2375.

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