For 2022, electric vehicles will continue expanding on the automotive market. The Audi e-tron family, which has already made a solid name for itself in its few years of existence, introduces a full-size electric sedan, the Audi e-tron GT. The hypnotic sedan, which shares its roots with its sibling, the Porsche Taycan, takes direct aim at the Tesla Model S. With its performance that beats most of Audi's contemporary options and the roominess of a full-size sedan, the Audi e-tron GT is a compelling offering that is sure to cause a market stir.
2022 Audi E-Tron GT Drivetrain And Range
The 2022 Audi e-tron GT shares a basic platform with the Porsche Taycan. As such, it offers similar drivetrain options and a comparable range. All Audi e-tron GTs feature a 93.4 kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery, netting 238 miles of range in mixed driving. The e-tron is capable of reaching an 80% charge from 0% in just 22 minutes with a DC fast charger.
The standard e-tron GT makes 522 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque through its twin electric motors, which power all four wheels. The performance RS e-tron GT utilizes a more powerful pair of electric motors, bringing power up to 637 horsepower and 612 lb-ft of torque.
The Audi e-tron GT is unique in its gearbox design. Most electric vehicles are direct-drive and lack a gearbox. While this is true for the front-mounted electric motor on the e-tron GT, the rear axle has a two-speed gearbox.
This design allows for more efficient driving at higher speeds, reducing the number of revolutions the electric motor has to complete. Power loss has prevented companies from utilizing transmissions in EVs, but other manufacturers will likely emulate this unique gearbox design in the future.
2022 Audi E-Tron GT Performance And Handling
The 2022 Audi e-tron GT is one of the finest performing electric sedans on the market. Even as an EV, it delivers on the fun-factor consumers expect in an Audi at this price point, something certainly linked to its Porsche roots.
The standard e-tron GT features a 0-60 time of just 3.9 seconds, while the RS variant rockets to 60 in just 3.1. The e-tron GT's launch control software utilizes the two-speed rear-end, ensuring every bit of torque is used to its full potential in snapping the driver's neck.
The RS variant features several carbon-ceramic pieces reducing overall weight. Performance brakes from Porsche are also included in the package. Some may dislike the little regenerative braking that is seen on the e-tron. Audi wanted to give drivers a more classic feel in this car. While the range has suffered due to these decisions, it does make the e-tron GT one of the most engaging electric vehicles on the market.
Consumers will also be surprised by the ride quality of the e-tron GT. It is not harsh like most performance EVs. The ride is comfortable and stable. This grand touring feel does come with problematic understeering tendencies but is a fair tradeoff in a car that consumers will likely use for day-to-day driving.
2022 Audi E-Tron GT Interior, Quality, And Technology
Despite being equipped with the latest automotive technology, Audi sticks to a more traditional approach in the e-tron GT's cockpit. Drivers are treated to Audi's signature virtual cockpit gauge cluster and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. From there, consumers will find an abundance of tactile buttons, switches, and knobs that can control all the vehicle functions. An exciting find in an era where these things are becoming hidden inside various menus within the infotainment.
In the center console is a push-button drive selector. LED accent lighting and a backlit e-tron badge remind consumers what they are driving. Interior material options are abundant, ranging from fine leathers to more sport-oriented suede. Cargo space in the trunk is very standard, with 9.2 cubic feet of available cargo space. However, consumers can throw an extra carry-on in the two cubic foot front trunk, providing a compact space next to the electric motor.
2022 Audi E-Tron GT Pricing
The Audi e-Tron GT is one of the most refined interpretations of the modern luxury electric sedan. It hits every mark of quality, luxury, and performance. With few competitors besides the Tesla Model S, consumers will have a difficult time cross-shopping the Audi e-Tron GT with anything other than its Porsche Taycan sibling. As such, pricing forthe Audi e-Tron, while substantial, falls in line with its few competitors.
The base 2022 Audi e-tron GT starts at $102,400. The Premium Prestige trim brings pricing to $109,600. The e-tron tops out at $142,400 for the performance RS trim.
Several packages are available, including a $6,000 performance package for those that don't wish to spring for the RS. A full-leather package is available in the RS for an additional $5,300. The $20,000 Year-One package includes all the above plus carbon-ceramic brakes, 21-inch wheels, carbon-fiber interior accents, as well as a unique dynamic power steering system, bringing the price of a fully-loaded e-tron GT to $161,890.
There's a four-year bumper-to-bumper warranty and an eight-year 100,000-mile battery and electric motor warranty. Consumers also receive three years of free charging through the Electrify America DC public fast-charging network.
Overall, the 2022 Audi e-tron GT is a compelling flagship in this new era of electric luxury and is sure to make many ultra-luxury consumers think twice when buying their next car.