Audi Q4 e-tron I (F4Z) (2021 – 2024)

Reliability score : 7.8/10

The Audi Q4 e-tron (and its Sportback coupe variant) represents the 100% electric entry-level model of the brand with the four rings. Based on the Volkswagen Group's MEB platform (shared with the VW ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq), it stands out with a more premium finish, meticulous soundproofing, and comfort-oriented damping. While it shines with its interior space and driving pleasure, it suffered in its early days from the same ailments as its technical cousins: an unstable and improvable software interface (infotainment), progressively corrected via updates (OTA and at the dealership). At the end of 2023, the model received a major technical update (new APP550 motors on the 45 and 55 versions, optimized battery, increased charging power).

✅ Strengths

Excellent interior space (rear legroom worthy of the segment above)
Very meticulous soundproofing, premium ride comfort
Exceptional turning radius on rear-wheel drive versions (35, 40, 45)
Superior assembly quality compared to its cousins (VW ID.4, Skoda Enyaq)
Efficiency significantly improved on 45 and 55 versions (APP550 motor)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Improvable ergonomics (annoying haptic steering wheel buttons)
Frequent software bugs on 2021-2022 model years (black screens, disconnections)
Very high weight (over 2.1 tons) impacting driving dynamics
Average DC fast charging power on early versions (125-135 kW)
Hard plastics in the lower part of the cabin, unworthy of the price

🎯 Verdict

The Audi Q4 e-tron is a highly accomplished family electric SUV in terms of comfort, interior space, and manufacturing quality. Mechanically, the MEB platform is robust and the electric motors are reliable. However, the 2021 and 2022 model years were marred by numerous software bugs (infotainment, charging management, rearview camera) that imperatively require dealership updates. Buying advice: Favor the 40 e-tron version for its excellent range-to-price ratio. If your budget allows, aim for a model produced from late 2023 (45 or 55 versions): they benefit from the new motor (more powerful and more efficient), improved charging power, and finally mature software. Avoid 2021 models that do not have a crystal-clear maintenance history regarding software updates and the 12V battery replacement.

Common issues

Problèmes logiciels et système d'infodivertissement Medium

🔧 Dès le début – 50 000 km

💶 150 – 400 € (diagnostic/reprogrammation, souvent sous garantie)

Vérifier les mises à jour logicielles effectuées et tester toutes les fonctions de l'infodivertissement.

Décharge inopinée de la batterie 12V auxiliaire Medium

🔧 Dès le début – 40 000 km

💶 150 – 300 € (remplacement de la batterie 12V)

S'assurer que la batterie 12V a été vérifiée ou remplacée si le véhicule a été immobilisé.

Difficultés ou interruptions lors de la recharge Medium

🔧 Dès le début – 30 000 km

💶 500 – 1 500 € (si problème du port ou module interne, souvent sous garantie)

Tester la recharge sur différentes bornes AC et DC avant l'achat.

Dysfonctionnement ou performance réduite de la pompe à chaleur/climatisation Medium

🔧 20 000 – 60 000 km

💶 800 – 2 000 € (réparation ou remplacement de composants)

Tester le chauffage et la climatisation, vérifier l'historique des réparations liées au système CVC.

Estimated maintenance costs

Complete brakes	£220 – 480
Estimated annual budget	£200 – 450

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.