Audi e-tron GT Concept

Audi’s new £88k entry-level e-tron GT ‘quattro’ will pack up to 576bhp*

*When launch control’s engaged. Otherwise it’s 496bhp. Still enough, we reckon

Audi’s serving up a new entry-level model for the e-tron GT family of sports saloons, with the standard ‘quattro’ now starting from £88,555. Interestingly, that's £355 dearer than a completely boggo Porsche Taycan which starts at £88,200.

The e-tron does have a big statistical advantage though: its dual-motor powertrain produces a minimum of 496bhp (already 67 more than the Taycan), and a peak of 576bhp with launch control engaged. With its electrons at full pelt, it’ll get to 62mph in four secs flat - eight-tenths quicker than the car it shares platforms with.

An improved 105kWh battery yields up to 384 miles of range - that’s 40ish short of the Taycan - and 320kW charge speeds mean 177 miles can be topped up in just 10 minutes. Stick around for another eight, and you’ll regain all of 80 per cent.

Other bits worth mentioning include adaptive air suspension as standard, with Audi’s quattro drivetrain stuffed with torque vectoring capabilities between both axles. This new entry-level also weighs 30kg less than the next-up ‘S’ version, as Audi has rightfully pointed out. It's still some 2.3-tonnes, mind.

 
Audi RS e-tron GT Performance is the brand’s most powerful and expensive model ever

While it lacks the thumping soundtrack of an RS 6 or R8, Audi’s new RS e-tron GT Performance has its own claims to fame, being the most powerful and expensive model that the brand has ever introduced in South Africa.

Available on special order only, the new performance flagship is now available in South Africa through 10 e-tron dealerships, with a starting price of R4,906,100. This includes a five-year/100,000km Freeway Plan and a battery warranty covering clients for eight years or 160,000km.

So how fast is it?

Under normal circumstances, the GT Performance model’s two electric motors produce a combined 550kW and 999Nm, but activating Launch Control mode increases output to 680kW, allowing for a 2.5-second 0-100km/h sprint.

The powertrain features an advanced thermal management system that intelligently regulates the battery and electric motors.

The GT Performance comes standard with a panoramic tinted glass roof, while buyers can also opt for a switchable panoramic roof that changes between transparent and opaque at the touch of a button, or a lightweight carbon-fibre roof option. Inside, the RS model is equipped with Sport Seats Pro featuring electric adjustment, ventilation and memory functions.

The RS e-tron GT Performance also gains Audi’s latest digital and driver assistance technologies, including Audi virtual cockpit plus with RS-specific displays, a head-up display and MMI navigation plus with connected services.

Safety and convenience features include Remote Park Assist Plus, which allows the vehicle to be manoeuvred into and out of parking spaces via the myAudi app, along with surround-view cameras, lane departure warning, side assist with exit warning and rear cross-traffic assist.

A Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound System is also available for buyers seeking a higher-end audio experience.

 
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