After three years of teasing and a production version reveal last December, Audi’s fastback EV for this model year, the e-tron Sportback, now has a definite time of arrival on U.S. shores, and a base sticker price for U.S. buyers as well.
The Sportback is the penultimate model in Audi’s e-tron division lineup, and its price reflects its status in the hierarchy: $78K starting. Creature comforts come thick and fast, though, and include a Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system; driver assist features include Audi pre-sense and side assist, and a top-view camera.
The exception is the limited Edition One variant of the model, which features unique cosmetic flourishes inside and out—including the Plasma Blue Metallic exterior color, orange brake calipers, 21” S-spoke two-tone wheels, and ‘Monaco Gray Valcona’ leather—and boosts the base price to about $90K. Of course, incentives and charging bonuses can substantially drop the sticker price of any EV, and the 2020 e-tron Sportback is no exception.
The e-tron Sportback’s drivetrain is comprised of two motors and a 95 kWh battery. The EPA estimate for range on a full charge is 218 miles with the most efficient recuperation tech mode engaged, but a ten-minute pit stop at a quick charging station will buy drivers almost sixty miles of driving. The cabin is attractively techy, looking invitational instead of overwhelming even to the tech-resistant tire-kicker. The car is equipped with Amazon Alexa, Apple Carplay, and Audi’s MMI system.
Options for the 2020 e-tron Sportback include the Black Optics package, which enhances the muscle car-meets-Euro wagon feel and gives the hunkered style an aggressive intensity.