It seems like EVs are all the rage these days. But for knowledgeable EV buyers, one of the first questions to ask is: what’s the range? Given the still developing charging infrastructure, you need to know how far your EV can take you, especially if you plan on taking it in certain parts of your state or region. If you’re choosing between EVs right now, the 2021 Audi e-tron gives you just enough range to be worth the purchase price.

What’s in the new Audi e-tron

Starting at $65,900, the 2021 Audi e-tron is quite a striking vehicle. It’s sleek and modern, with an upscale exterior look that’s buzzworthy. The e-tron’s potency is equally impressive. Powered by two electric motors and a 95-kWh battery pack, the e-tron produces 355 hp and 414 lb-ft of torque and can hit 60 mph in a rapid 5.1 seconds.

The interior does not disappoint with ample legroom (40.8 inches in the front and 39.1 inches in the back). The cargo hold is a respectable 28.5 cubic feet, and by folding down the rear row, you’ll expand that to 57 cubic feet. Drivers and passengers can take advantage of the e-tron’s large dual touchscreen (10.1 inches and 8.8 inches respectively), along with the numerous features of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. These features all come standard with the e-tron’s Premium base model.

The Premium version includes common advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. To ensure maximum safety, prospective buyers can opt for one of the higher-level trims that include features like a 360-degree camera system. But perhaps more critical than these features in keeping passengers safe is not getting stranded. So, how far can an e-tron take you?

The 2021 Audi e-tron’s driving range  

Compared to its competition, the Audi e-tron’s driving range falls squarely in the middle of the pack. The e-tron takes you 222 miles before needing a recharge, per U.S. News. This is respectable, but perhaps for some, it’s not enough to justify a not-unsubstantial MSRP. Competitors like the Jaguar I-Pace and Tesla Model X Long Range outpace it, at 234 miles and 371 miles, respectively.

The Audi does charge pretty quickly at 150 kW, which can re-up 80 percent of its power in 30 minutes (or faster depending on the charging rate). Using a standard 240-volt charger will increase that charging time to 9 hours. So prospective buyers need to plan charging contingencies before they purchase the e-tron.

That said, the e-tron does many things well and may be the perfect vehicle for you if you’re not planning weekly cross-country trips.

What this EV gets right 

Despite its relatively shorter range, the Audi e-tron handles superbly on the road whether accelerating, cornering, or stopping, thanks in part to its standard all-wheel drive. Its regenerative braking system perfectly aligns with its traditional braking system and helps drivers enjoy a composed and balanced ride.

The Audi e-tron is also available in a sharp Sportback version which can be paired with any of the e-tron’s trim lines. A Sportback Premium will run you $70,195, while the top-level trim, the Sportback Prestige, will start at $83,395. There are also a variety of packaged options that can further enhance your driving experience. The Convenience Plus package, for example, adds adaptive cruise control and other safety features, along with black exterior trim.

The Audi e-tron is a sharply designed, feature-rich EV with lots of luxury options and amenities. Notwithstanding its unimpressive range, the e-tron delivers in every other aspect, is a strong competitor for industry awards in its segment, and a boon to prospective buyers looking for a midsize luxury SUV.