The electric SUV market has really hotted up in recent years, and especially at the premium end of the spectrum.
There are now offerings from the likes of Volkswagen, Lexus and Volvo, but two of our favourites so far are the Audi Q4 e-tron and Mercedes EQA. They’re set to be very popular additions for the two brands, and they’ve pulled out all the stops to make them as good as possible.
But where should you put your money, into the Audi or the Mercedes? Let’s put them head-to-head…
Driving
Neither the Mercedes or Audi aims to be particularly sporty behind the wheel, so instead these models prioritise comfort and ease of use.
If you want a slightly more dynamic choice though, the Audi has the edge, as it’s just that bit more involving through the corners. Despite that, the Q4 is also the more refined choice, as it’s quieter on the move, and a perfect choice if you regularly find yourself doing longer motorway trips.
Powertrains
Signalling these models’ importance, both the EQA ands Q4 are available with a wide choice of powertrains.
Let’s start with the EQA, as all versions use the same 66.5kWh battery and deliver a range between 250 and 264 miles. There are a raft of power outputs to choose from, though, including the 187bhp front-wheel-drive EQA 250, followed by the four-wheel-drive EQA 300 and 350 models, which put out 225bhp and 288bhp respectively. Choose the latter if you want the best performance, as 0-60mph takes just 5.8 seconds. In terms of charging, all EQAs can manage a 10 to 80 per cent charge in as little as 30 minutes.
Moving over to the Q4, there are again three options to choose from – the 35, 40 and 50 e-tron. Unlike the EQA, there are two different batteries used, depending on version, with the 35 model using a 52kWh battery that allows for an electric range of 208 miles, along with a 168bhp electric motor. The 40 and 50 e-tron meanwhile use a larger 77kWh battery that allows for a range up to 316 miles, with the rear-wheel-drive 40 producing 201bhp, and the flagship 50 getting all-wheel-drive (thanks to a second electric motor) that allows for 295bhp. This version can also reach 0-60mph in six seconds. Charging times are similar to the Mercedes, too, with a five to 80 per cent charger taking 38 minutes.
Looks
Both of these cars are relatively safe when it comes to styling, though are still very good at conveying the image that Audi and Mercedes are known for. One key difference is that the Q4 is a bespoke Audi, built on a dedicated electric car platform, compared to the EQA that uses the regular Mercedes GLA as its base.
The EQA does get various ‘electric’ specific elements, including bespoke full-width LED light bars at the front and rear, and smoother-looking bumpers to aid efficiency. Despite this, we personally find the EQA’s design a bit fussy compared to the sleeker and generally more pleasing Q4 e-tron, though this will be down to personal preference.
Practicality
The Q4 e-tron is at an immediate advantage when it comes to practicality, as its electric car platform allows for far greater flexibility in the interior, and Audi – as well as sibling Volkswagen Group brands that share this platform – have really used it to their advantage. It also helps that it’s 12cm longer than the Mercedes.
With vast amounts of rear space, a flat floor in the rear and a 520-litre boot, the Q4 is a hugely practical tool that’s ideal for families. In its own regard the EQA isn’t a bad choice, as there’s still a decent amount of room in the back, but it’s heavily overshadowed here by the Audi. The Mercedes’ 340-litre boot is also very small by class standards, as well as being 100 litres down on the regular GLA.
Value
You’re unlikely to buy a premium SUV for its value for money, but the Q4 is the more affordable option – prices starting from £43,115 compared to the EQA’s £45,645. That said, you can spend more on the Audi overall, with the flagship Mercedes model here topping out at £54,145, whereas you can spend up to £10,000 more than that on the Audi. With both SUVs, though, the best value can be had at the lower end of the spectrum.
Both models also get plenty of equipment, with the entry-level Q4 Sport featuring LED front and rear lights, 19-inch alloy wheels, an electric boot, heated front seats, a 10.1-inch touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Across to the EQA, which – confusingly – is also called Sport in its cheapest form, with specs closely matching the Audi with its 10-inch touchscreen, 10-inch digital dial screen, man-made heated leather seats and high-performance LED headlights.
Verdict
As the premium electric SUV market hots up, this market will only get more competitive. Currently, both models are credible, with their premium looks and well-made interiors, but the best model here is the Audi Q4 e-tron by some margin.
Not only is it roomier and better to drive, but it’s also marginally cheaper to buy, while the option of the larger 77kWh battery means it can go more than 50 miles further on a charge than the Mercedes. It really is a fantastic choice.
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