New Audi GT electric is powerful but pricey

IF you are into electric cars but find the everyday versions a little, let’s say, tame, then you might consider a member of the new Audi e-tron GT family.

This now includes the Audi S
e-tron GT, the Audi RS e-tron
GT and the Audi RS e-tron GT performance.

The idea behind the new e-tron GT models, says Audi, is to set “new standards in performance”.

Increased charging power and electric all-wheel drive means improved long-distance capability and much better performance.

The Audi e-tron GT quattro has been the manufacturer’s EV and sporty flagship model since its premiere in 2021.

The new versions, which will be available to order from next month, improve on the vehicle’s range, performance, charging and handling.

A lighter battery with higher energy density contributes to a range of up to 375 miles and Audi has increased the maximum charging power to 320 kW.

In “ideal” conditions, the e-tron GT family’s HV battery can charge from 10 to 80 per cent in 18 minutes at a high-power charging station. In 10 minutes, the battery recharges to a range of up to 174 miles. For the first time, Audi’s virtual cockpit provides information about the operating state of the battery, including its temperature, and includes a quick-charging forecast.

The new variants of the e-tron GT series combine a progressive design with innovative technology.

For example, the new Audi S
e-tron GT stands for “elegant sportiness”.

The new Audi RS e-tron GT is sportier as well with a rear end that has borrowed elements from motorsport.

It is the first fully electric
RS performance model.

It features unique design
elements and stands out from the
RS e-tron GT with a matt, darkened carbon roof with optional carbon camouflage elements on the Carbon Black and Carbon Vorsprung trims.

These elements are a first for Audi and are exclusive to the RS
performance. The carbon camouflage is used in the embossed bumper structures, the door trim, parts of the diffuser and the side mirrors.

The range of colours features nine exterior finishes. In addition to solid Arkona White, there are metallic, or pearl, effect colours Ascari Blue, Daytona Grey, Florett Silver, Kemora Grey, Mythos Black and Progressive Red.

Nimbus Grey is available as an exclusive finish for the RS e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT performance, while the new Bedford Green is available on the RS e-tron GT
performance.

Audi has also reworked the wheel range. New 20in multi-spoke wheels are available for the S e-tron GT and there are two new six-twin spoke wheels for the RS models.

These cars are all phenomenally quick off the mark.

In all three model variants, the fully electric Gran Turismo from Audi offers impressive driving
performance.

The S e-tron GT accelerates from 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds and the RS e-tron GT in 2.8 seconds. The RS e-tron GT performance is even faster at 2.5 seconds.

The S e-tron GT has a top speed of 152mph and the RS models can go up to 155mph.

Autocar says the top-of-the-range Audi E-tron GT “steals the headlines with its 637bhp output but even the ‘entry-level’ model packs a maximum of 523bhp thanks to its two electric motors”.

The reviewer adds that the promised performance is “every bit as electrifying as you’d expect”.

So if you are after an EV that’s quick off the mark because of “instant torque” (pulling power), then one of these Audis might be just the thing.

Just one downside — the prices start at £80,000.