In 2018, Audi took a significant step toward electrification by introducing its first mass-produced pure electric model—the e-tron. This vehicle didn't just become the flagship of the brand's new direction but also laid the foundation for the company's future electric cars. Let's explore what made the first-generation e-tron stand out, its unique features, and why it remains an interesting option in the used electric vehicle market.
Production Years and Facelift
The Audi e-tron was produced from 2018 to 2023, receiving a minor facelift in 2021. The updated version featured higher-capacity batteries, increased range, and slight cosmetic changes: a new grille, redesigned LED headlights, and a slightly revised bumper. A sportier e-tron S variant was also introduced, equipped with three electric motors and enhanced performance.
Body Styles
The e-tron was available in two body styles:
- Five-door SUV (standard e-tron) – The main version, offering a spacious interior and elevated seating position.
- Coupe-like SUV (e-tron Sportback) – A more stylish version with a sloping roofline, launched in 2019.
Both variants shared the same platform and similar technical specifications, but the Sportback had a more aggressive look and slightly better aerodynamics.
Front Bumper Removal
- Open the hood.
- Remove the cover under the hood.
- Unscrew the two bolts beneath the cover (fastened from bottom to top).
- Turn the wheels to the side being worked on.
- Remove the wheel arch liners (secured with clips; pry and pull toward you).
- In the wheel wells, unscrew three bolts per side securing the fender liners (front section).
- Unscrew one bolt per side attaching the bumper corners to the fenders.
- Unscrew the bolts from underneath (fastened from bottom to top).
- Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners outward).
- Release the clips under the headlights.
- With an assistant, pull the bumper forward (watch for wires and hoses).
- Disconnect the headlight washer hoses (fluid may leak).
- Disconnect the electrical connectors.
Rear Bumper Removal
- Open the trunk lid.
- Remove the trim panels near the taillights (secured with clips; pull outward).
- Unscrew two bolts per side and remove the taillights (secured with clips in the fenders).
- Under the taillights, unscrew two bolts and pull out two plastic retainers upward.
- In the trunk, remove the rear panel trim and unscrew four nuts behind it (requires a socket wrench with extension).
- From underneath, unscrew the bolts (fastened from bottom to top).
- Remove the wheel arch liners (secured with clips; pry and pull toward you).
- In the wheel wells, unscrew three bolts per side securing the fender liners (rear section).
- Unscrew one bolt per side attaching the bumper corners to the fenders.
- Release the clips in the fenders (pull the bumper corners outward).
- Release the clips under the taillights.
- With an assistant, pull the bumper rearward (watch for wires).
- Disconnect the electrical connectors.
Technical Features
The first-generation e-tron featured dual electric motors (one per axle), providing quattro all-wheel drive. Power outputs varied:
- Standard version: 355 hp (402 hp in boost mode), 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds.
- e-tron S: 429 hp (496 hp in boost mode), 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds.
Post-facelift, the battery capacity increased from 95 to 106 kWh, extending the range to 440 km (WLTP). While not record-breaking by 2023 standards, it was respectable for its time.
Fast charging supported up to 150 kW, enabling a 5%-80% charge in ~30 minutes. Home charging at 11 kW took ~8-9 hours.
Design and Interior
Externally, the e-tron resembled a typical Audi premium SUV but with EV-specific touches: a sealed grille, no exhaust pipes, and aerodynamic wheels.
The interior followed modern Audi styling: dual touchscreens (infotainment and climate), digital instrument cluster, premium materials, and excellent sound insulation. The absence of a transmission tunnel (common in ICE vehicles) created more cabin space, especially in the standard-roof version.
Interesting Facts
- First but not last: The e-tron was Audi's first series EV but was succeeded in 2023 by the upgraded Q8 e-tron.
- Virtual mirrors: Some trims featured cameras instead of side mirrors, with door-mounted displays—an innovative solution not legal everywhere.
- Tri-motor performance: The e-tron S pioneered triple-motor setups (two rear, one front) for better acceleration and handling.
- Dakar prototype: Audi's 2022 RS Q e-tron rally hybrid adapted technology from the production e-tron.
Conclusion: Why the e-tron Still Matters
Though discontinued, the first-gen e-tron remains a compelling used EV option—a reliable, tech-rich premium electric SUV with decent range and distinctive styling. While newer models exist, the 2018–2023 e-tron delivers a proven package without compromises.
For cutting-edge tech, consider its successor, the Q8 e-tron. But as Audi's EV trailblazer, the original e-tron retains its place in automotive history.