2022 Audi Q4 e-tron: Sneak Peek Inside Audi’s Next EV
The fully electric Audi Q4 e-tron and its Sportback variant will make their global debut in production form on April 14. In the meantime, the company has released several videos showing the interior of these new crossovers, which are based on Volkswagen’s MEB architecture.
As you will see, the clean layout puts the focus on cutting-edge technology, highlighted by augmented-reality navigation and a new steering wheel with illuminated haptic controls that only appear when the vehicle is turned on.
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Slotting Between the Q3 and Q5
The compact Q4 e-tron’s exterior dimensions are similar to those of the conventionally powered Q3. However, with short overhangs and a long wheelbase of 2.76 metres, the cabin offers as much space as the larger Q5. Cargo capacity is rated at 520 or 1,490 litres depending on the position of the rear seats.
The modular MEB platform, which is exclusively designed for electric vehicles, allowed Audi designers to create a highly accommodating and versatile interior. This will make daily driving that much more enjoyable.
No Shifter
Another interesting feature inside the upcoming Q4 e-tron is the series of buttons that replace the traditional shifter on the centre console, further maximizing space.
Above is an 11.6-inch centre display powered by Audi’s latest infotainment system, while a fully digital and reconfigurable instrument panel replaces the classic gauges. Physical controls for the HVAC system remain, though.
In S-Line trim, the steering wheel has a flat bottom and flat top for a unique, futuristic look. Its upper spokes feature touch surfaces in a black-panel look whose functional areas are also backlit to indicate the respective active buttons.
According to Chan Park, the South Korean designer who conceived the Q4 e-tron interior, customers will find a range of materials and finishes. Tech Mesh on the dashboard and Dinamica upholstery on the seats are made from recycled components. Nine different interior combinations will be available including four for S-Line models only. Diamond-quilted sport seats will be optional.
Augmented Reality
As mentioned above, the navigation system of the new Audi Q4 e-tron incorporates augmented reality head-up display (optional) to bring the real and virtual worlds together, guiding drivers in a more intuitive way.
The information provided by some of the assist systems and the turning arrows of the navigation system as well as its starting points and destinations are visually superimposed in the corresponding place on the real-life outside world as content of the AR section and displayed dynamically. A checkered flag icon shows up when drivers reach their destination.
The Q4 e-tron will be the first Audi product to feature this technology, but rest assured that more models will adopt it in the future, be they electric or not.
D-Day is April 14
The big debut of the 2022 Audi Q4 e-tron and Q4 e-tron Sportback will take place on April 14. Lead exterior designer Amar Vaya says 95 percent will be identical to the concepts shown here.
Keep following The Car Guide for all the details about Audi’s electric future.