Audi makes vehicles with modern tech and German style. The company’s legendary Quattro AWD provides unmatched traction, and its powertrains offer world-class engineering. From the A4 sedan to the R8 supercar, Audi knows modern performance. But so far in 2023, Audi sales for two models are positive, while two others are on a downward trend. Let’s explore these models in detail and possible reasons for their sales results.

Two Audi models on the rise in 2023

According to GoodCarBadCar, the Audi Q7 and Audi Q4 e-tron received huge sales bumps this year. Let’s go over the data, along with each model’s features and specs.

Year to date, 21,448 Audi Q7s drove off the lot. That’s an increase of 80.02 percent over the prior year.

During the same period, customers purchased 6,064 Audi Q4 e-trons, for a 761.36 percent jump over 2022.

The 2023 Q7 (starting at $57,500 plus destination) is a full-size SUV with a sports car heart. Featuring Audi’s trademark trapezoidal mesh grille, five-ring badge, and LED DRLs, this sport utility vehicle cuts a sleek silhouette on the boulevard. Three-row seating gives it enough room for any trip, and an optional turbo V6 (with a 48-volt hybrid system) has 335 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque.

Also standard is Quattro all-wheel drive for tenacious traction in all conditions. That provides abundant off-the-line grip and reassurance in rain and snow.

During testing, Car and Driver noted the Q7’s smooth and entertaining handling. They also liked the Audi’s class-leading interior, with its clean design and top-quality materials. Even though the German SUV is due for an update, they found it still compared well with rivals.

The 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron compact SUV (starting at $48,800 plus destination) has taut, athletic lines and a high-tech EV powertrain. Available in single-motor or dual-motor configurations, the Q4 has up to 265 miles of range and can fast-charge in only 36 minutes. And with the available Quattro AWD, this small sport-utility vehicle is up for anything.

MotorTrend lauded the Q4 E-Tron for its appealing bodywork and tech-focused interior. And its brisk, even acceleration was another high point.

Audi sales are on the decline for these models in 2023

While the Audi Q7 and Q4 e-Tron keep rising in popularity, two other Audi models are on a downward trend. As of late, the Q3 and e-Tron Sportback have seen sharp downturns in sales, according to GoodCarBadCar. Here are the details.

Last month, Audi sold three e-tron Sportbacks. During the same period in 2022, they sold 207 models. That’s a difference of -98.55 percent.

During the same period, the Q3 also experienced a sales decrease. While in September 2022, sales were 2,307 units, this year they were 1,819 units, for a change of -21.15 percent.

What could be the reason for the downturn? We have some ideas. The current-gen Q3 debuted for the 2019 model year. In the automotive world, it’s getting a little long in the tooth. By the same token, the e-tron crossover came to market in the same year. And for 2024, it’s been updated and renamed the Q8 e-tron.

The 2023 Q3 (starting at $36,800 plus destination) is a compact SUV with typical Audi traits. Under the hood is a turbo four with either 184 hp or 228 hp. Quattro AWD is standard on all trims, and a smooth eight-speed auto handles gear changes. Despite its age, the Q3’s exterior is still modern and sleek. And with its compact size, handling is agile and fun.

The e-tron crossover was Audi’s initial foray into electric vehicles. With modern bodywork — including a closed grille and ample LED lighting — the e-tron signaled the brand’s move toward an electric future. A dual-motor setup brought standard Quattro AWD, along with 355 hp and 414 lb-ft of torque. The e-tron S trim used a triple-motor configuration with 496 hp and 718 lb-ft of torque for world-class power and acceleration. As with all Audi’s, the interior featured an elegant design with plenty of tech.

The 2023 e-tron starts at $70,800 (plus destination). Even for a leading-edge EV, that’s a lot of coin. And since the e-tron’s been replaced by the new 2024 Q8 e-tron, there’s little reason for buyers to make it their pick.

Through the first nine months of 2023, Audi models experienced a mix of sales success. While the Q7 and Q4 e-tron continue to fly off the lot, the Q3 and e-tron are on the decline. The results seem to point to buyers wanting the latest and greatest models, or, in the case of the Q7, a timeless, functional SUV. Either way, Audi still sets the standard for modern luxury and tech.