Elite Traveler Fall 2022

With the debut of the e-tron S Sportback, Audi continues its steadfast construction of electric drivetrains that refuse to sacri fi ce power or agility

etr li at ve eler FALL 2022 101

Audi e-tron S Sportback

Historically, the addition of an S to any Audi model denotes enriched performance and heightened design cues. With the debut of the e-tron S Sportback, Audi continues its steadfast construction of electric drivetrains that refuse to sacri fi ce power or agility. For some, the notion of multiple separate motors continues to confound, and rightly so. It’s a bit tricky to understand the idea of three distinct motors con fi gured to produce an output of 370 kW. But that’s exactly what the brand with the largest fully electric portfolio created. The bigger motor at the front axle of the e-tron S Sportback splits 201 hp between the front wheels. A duo of smaller motors paired at the rear axle, each with 177 hp, are mechanically independent but mated back-to-back inline with the axle. Electrical engine-wise, more motors means more electric power. That includes the potential for degrees of regenerative braking, or single-pedal driving. All that’s to say, despite how it gets there, the Sportback delivers. The all-wheel electric drive establishes seasonal fl exibility, and the determined yet self e ff acing stance allows for the handling to do the talking. While there’s certainly an adjustment to electric driving, it’s amusing, fast and handles swimmingly. Audi e-tron S Sportback in prestige trim from $97,900, audiusa.com