Tesla Model Y vs Audi Q4 e-tron: Which small EV SUV is superior?
When it comes to an EV SUV that's a cut just above the rest, most buyers turn to Audi and Tesla. Both offer a pleasantly upscale take on the electrified SUV, each beholden to an established manufacturer that wants to keep its vehicles familiar to loyal buyers.
Tesla dusted off a fatigued design with the New Model Y, giving it a touch more style along the way. The Audi Q4 e-tron is the automaker's electrified variant of a popular SUV and will be immediately familiar to the Audi faithful.
We've identified a few considerations that might help you make the right decision about which to buy.Tesla's pricing is relatively straightforward, while Audi has many options that might be confusing. Here's how things stack up:
Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive: $44,990
Long Range All-Wheel Drive: $47,990
Performance All-Wheel Drive: $51,490
New Model Y Launch Edition: $59,990
Premium: $49,800
Premium Plus: $53,600
Prestige: $61,800
Audi also offers two engine options, the rear-wheel drive Premium 45 e-tron, and all-wheel drive Premium 55 e-tron on the two premium trims. The '45' is standard, while the '55' is a $5,000 upcharge. The Prestige trim is only available with the Prestige 55 e-tron Quattro all-wheel drive drivetrain.
Naturally, each vehicle has upgrades that scale the price accordingly. Overall, the only real 'budget' option is the Tesla Model Y Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive, which costs nearly $5,000 less than the entry-level Audi Q4 e-tron.The Tesla Model Y carries a tried-and-true exterior design language that shares similar lines with the Model X, Model 3, and Model S. The Model Y has a unique sloping rear roofline and a friendly fascia.
Tesla updated the Model Y this year, but the only significant changes are the different light bars across the front and rear of the vehicle.
The Audi Q4 e-tron feels a touch wider and a bit lower, and it has a more traditional SUV appearance. It's a Q4, after all. However, when we look at the specs, we find that the Model Y is technically two inches wider.
The Q4 e-tron is also classier, with squared exterior lines and subtle curves that almost insist on being valet-parked. The roofline is less sloped in the rear than the Model Y, and the front grill area is much bolder. Overall, it looks more like an SUV than the Model Y.
Inside, the Q4 e-tron sports a dual-display dash arrangement, hardware buttons for seat heating, cooling, and air conditioning, as well as a center-mounted drive mode selector. It's all subtle and indicative of the Q4's SUV heritage.
The Model Y's interior is sparse. It has a simple steering wheel and large dash-mounted screen, but little else. The center console has cup holders and a charging pad.
The Audi's seats are much more premium and far more comfortable. Neither vehicle is plush, per se, but we prefer the Audi's front and rear seats. The Audi's faux leather is also nicer.
The Tesla Model Y offers a more comfortable 2.5 inches of headroom front and rear, but legroom and shoulder room are almost identical overall. The Audi Q4 e-tron has more cargo space thanks to its horizontal roofline.Tesla Model Y has notably sporty handling. It dips and dives through traffic with aplomb, but some feel the ride is stiff. It's worth noting that it's the 'stiff' ride that makes it responsive.
The Audi Q4 e-tron is also responsive but is clearly designed for cruising. The German automaker has provided a solid level of ride comfort with the Q4 e-tron, which we prefer for most driving conditions.
The Q4 e-tron's driver's seat is a touch low for our liking, and it's just not as spritely as the Model Y. If you want a more responsive driving experience, the Model Y is the better choice.
Here are the range estimates for each vehicle:
Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive: 337 miles
Long Range All-Wheel Drive: 311 miles
Performance All-Wheel Drive: 277 miles
New Model Y Launch Edition: 327 miles
Depending on your trim level and powertrain option, the Audi Q4 e-tron can travel an estimated 258 to 288 miles on a single charge. However, it's a touch slower to accelerate from 0 to 60.
Where Tesla really stands out is in fast charging. The Audi Q4 e-tron is capable of fast charging on capable DC connections, and Audi claims it can get from 10 percent to 80 percent in 28 minutes at 175kW. When paired with a supercharger, the Tesla Model Y adds 162 miles of range in about 15 minutes. Of course, home charging speeds will vary depending on your setup.If you're an Android Auto or CarPlay die-hard, the Model Y doesn't support either. Tesla has also created a software platform that shines bright when you subscribe to the $99/year Premium Connectivity package.
Audi's dealer network makes servicing a Q4 e-tron far easier than getting a Model Y fixed. EVs tend to have fewer minor issues than their ICE counterparts. However, service is still a factor when considering your next vehicle.
The Audi Q4 e-tron is more premium, has a more comfortable ride, and just plain looks better—but it has poorer range and middling charging speeds. It's also more expensive.
The Tesla Model Y charges quickly and has a better range, but it's not nearly as nice as the Audi Q4 e-tron.
Unless you're routinely taking long day trips, we think the Q4 e-tron is better. While we don't overlook Tesla's dominance in range and charging, the Model Y's tired design and stiff ride can't compete with the Q4 e-tron.
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