The Q4 morphs from the “40” to the “45” and gains 45 horsepower.

The Audi O4 eTron is Audi’s version of the components also sold as the Volkswagen ID.4. Power stems from the same 82 kWh battery pack found in the ID.4. Power reaches the wheels via a dual-motor all-wheel drive system. Audi notes that the Q4 can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in 28 minutes using a Level 3 charger. Inside, the driver faces a large digital gauge package housed within a large, overstyled dashboard. The top-dead centre of the dash is occupied by a very large infotainment screen. Like its ID.4 platform mate, Q4 cabin space is ample. The Sportback, a four-door coupe in the German manner, is available, but its fastback roofline sacrifices rear seat headroom as well as cargo volume.

The base “45” rear-wheel drive model, with L.E.D. headlights, leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, a power driver’s seat, a heated steering wheel, alloy cabin trim, front and rear parking sensors, a power tailgate, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot, rear cross traffic and lane departure monitors, is well equipped. Moving up to the dual-motor all-wheel drivetrain “55” (250 kW versus 210 kW) costs $5000. The Q4 “55” Sportback dual-motor variant costs nearly $9000 more than the conventional wagon.

Limited data. The ID.4, the base unit for the Q4, has been unreliable in its first years on the market. The APA recommends leasing your Q4. There have been some complaints about defective drive motors as well as recharging difficulties.