Three electric motors, more power, and electric torque vectoring improve the e-tron S Sportback's handling and agility.
PROS More power, responsive torque vectoring, it'll drift like a sports car.
CONS The regular e-tron weighs nearly 6000 pounds, this may be heavier; plans for the States are still to be determined.
Audi has unveiled the next evolution in its coming electric vehicle offensive, in the form of the 2021 Audi e-tron S. Building on its standard 95kWh e-tron, the S will receive a third electric motor and subsequent performance boost. With that enhancement, the e-tron S offers 320kW and 808Nm in normal driving mode and 370kW and 973Nm when in ‘Boost Mode’. By comparison, the current model e-tron produces 300kW and 664Nm.
For 2021, the X5's xDrive50i model has been replaced by the plug-in hybrid xDrive45e. The new plug-in hybrid powertrain consists of a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six and an electric motor for a total output of 389 horsepower. A 24.0-kWh battery pack is said to provide up to 30 miles of electric-only driving range. The regular 40i models also receive some light electrification in the form of a 48-volt hybrid system.
Pros Wide range of available engines, high-quality cabin materials, intuitive infotainment interface.
Cons Somewhat vague steering feel, tight third-row passenger space, V-8 performance costs a lot extra.
The xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model debuts.Last year's xDrive50i is discontinued.Android Auto is now standard.Minor feature changes.
Pros Strong performance from available engines Luxurious, comfortable cabin lives up to its price tag Spacious cabin and cargo area
Cons Small mirrors and wide roof pillars create blind spots Limited interior storage Wide doorsills inhibit entry and exit
