Overview

Audi’s first electric car was the E-Tron SUV, but it would prove to be the beginning of an onslaught of battery powered models. The original model was quickly followed up by the more distinctive Sportback version, which added more style at a price premium.

It was replaced by the Audi Q8 E-Tron Sportback in 2023 – a re-engineered version of the original, with the new name applied to bring it in line with the rest of the electric Audi range, and also reinforce its position as firm’s range-topping EV.

The E-Tron Sportback was to the E-Tron SUV what the Q3 Sportback or Q8 are to the Q3 and Q7 – a chopped-roof version of the electric SUV, offering a sportier drive and swoopier looks. That means rivals include luxury electric SUVs like the Jaguar I-Pace and Mercedes-Benz EQC, and Tesla Model X as well as younger, sportier options such as the Kia EV6 GT and Skoda Enyaq Coupe.

The trade-off for the coupe roofline is a loss of 20mm of rear headroom. But overall, there’s little material difference between the SUV and Sportback. However, the Sportback was only available in high-spec versions, with S Line for the base trim. That meant an aggressive bodykit, 21-inch wheels and Matrix LED headlights as standard.

Owing to the Sportback’s more aerodynamic shape, Audi reckoned six more miles of range compared with the SUV, but this was still well off the pace compared with the opposition. It might not go far enough on one charge, but at least you could top it up on an ultra-rapid public charger.

Is the Audi E-Tron Sportback a better used car option than the SUV? Click through the next few pages to read everything you need to know, including its practicality, comfort, how much it costs to run, what it’s like to drive – and whether we recommend buying one.