2022 Audi e-tron GT & RS e-tron GT: Electric Performance

A Different Approach to Electric Luxury

Often, luxury vehicles are associated with cutting-edge technology and striking aesthetics. Considering the current era of ambitious space exploration, a futuristic appearance is frequently anticipated in the newest high-end gadgets.

However, Audi takes a contrasting stance. The 2022 Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT represent a duo of all-electric grand touring vehicles that defy this expectation.

Timeless Design, Modern Power

These vehicles don’t necessarily project a design originating from the distant future. Instead, they embody the classic elegance of sleek, gasoline-powered grand tourers.

Beneath their refined exterior, however, lies a substantial amount of power, advanced technology, and distinctive flair that may not be immediately apparent.

Grand Touring Heritage

The 2022 Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT feature characteristics reminiscent of traditional grand tourers. These include a low roofline, a wide track, and an extended wheelbase.

Subtle design elements have been incorporated to align with Audi’s understated, yet opulent, design philosophy.

Inspired by an Icon

Both the e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT were manufactured alongside the Audi R8. They share certain design cues with this iconic model, even borrowing from its design language.

Despite these influences, these electric grand tourers establish themselves as unique and powerful vehicles in their own right.

Electric Performance: Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT

The e-tron GT utilizes an 800-volt architecture, mirroring that of the Porsche Taycan. This configuration delivers a combined 469 horsepower, which can be temporarily increased to 522 hp with overboost functionality.

Power is distributed via dual, permanent-magnet motors to both the front and rear axles, providing all-wheel drive capability.

The higher-performance RS e-tron GT shares the same motor setup but achieves a substantial power output of 590 horsepower, peaking at 637 hp with overboost engaged.

Audi claims the RS e-tron GT can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

Both the e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT exhibit capable and assured handling characteristics. They perform confidently on both winding mountain roads and extended highway journeys.

Like many electric vehicles, acceleration is remarkably smooth and nearly instantaneous.

Audi’s electric quattro all-wheel drive system, incorporating torque vectoring, contributes to exceptional stability and control in both models.

This system intelligently adjusts power distribution, sending varying amounts to individual wheels to counteract slippage during aggressive cornering, rapid lane changes, or adverse weather conditions.

Testing the Torque Vectoring System

The test vehicles were equipped with summer tires, allowing for a practical evaluation of the torque vectoring system’s capabilities.

Testing took place on a closed slalom course at the Agua Dulce Airpark, located approximately 50 miles northeast of Los Angeles, which included a challenging sudden lane change maneuver.

Repeated runs with the RS e-tron GT through the slalom course demonstrated the car’s secure, planted, and controlled feel.

The system consistently maintained composure, inspiring confidence throughout each run.

Handling, Velocity, and Distance Capabilities

2022 Audi RS e-tron GT. Image Credits: Audi

Both the e-tron GT and the RS e-tron GT offer an available rear-wheel steering feature. When traveling at speeds below 30 mph, the rear wheels are capable of rotating up to 2.8 degrees in a direction opposite to that of the front wheels. This maneuverability enhancement reduces the turning circle of both models.

At velocities exceeding 30 mph, the rear wheels align with the front wheels, contributing to stability. This system shares similarities with the one found in the Porsche Taycan, though it features a reduced degree of rotation.

Although I wasn't able to test the overboost function during my time on the airpark’s smooth surface, I did conduct a series of consecutive 0 to 100 mph acceleration tests utilizing launch control in the RS e-tron GT.

Amongst the group of journalists present, my acceleration time ranked second, achieving 0-60 mph in 3.24 seconds and 0-100 mph in 7.29 seconds. These figures are particularly noteworthy considering the 102-degree ambient temperature and the cold tire conditions.

By the conclusion of the runway, speeds neared 120 mph, falling 32 mph short of the electronically governed maximum of 155 mph (152 mph for the e-tron GT) before braking commenced.

Following three successive runs, the fully charged RS e-tron GT experienced a range reduction of only 20 miles.

The EPA-estimated range for the RS e-tron GT is 232 miles, while the e-tron GT is projected to achieve a range of 239 miles.

Powering the Vehicles

2022 Audi e-tron GT. Image Credits: Audi

The EPA-estimated ranges are achieved thanks to the low-profile 93 kWh battery pack, common to both models. Audi states this battery can be charged to 80% capacity within 23 minutes using 270-volt DC fast chargers.

The e-tron GT has a starting price of $99,900, while the RS e-tron GT is priced higher at $139,900. These prices exclude the $1,045 destination charge, but include a unique, one-time benefit.

Audi has partnered with Electrify America to provide three years of complimentary, unlimited public charging, with no time limitations. Furthermore, at-home charging station installation is facilitated through Qmerit.

Both the e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT are equipped with standard dual charging ports and a 9.6 kW charging system, compatible with 240-volt power sources, enabling charging flexibility for owners. Electrify America originated as a Volkswagen Group initiative following the Dieselgate emissions scandal.

Locating available charging stations is integrated into the vehicle’s infotainment system, known as MMI, via the 10.1-inch central touchscreen. Navigating to the charging section, indicated by a plug icon, displays a list of nearby chargers.

Although I didn’t personally test the charger locator during the one-day drive, Audi confirms that finding Electrify America chargers, along with their status and availability, is straightforward. This information is accessible through both the Audi MyAudi app (on smartphone and desktop) and the MMI interface.

Drivers can filter chargers by charging level – from Level 1 to DC fast chargers – and initiate navigation directly from Audi’s in-vehicle system. Alternatively, searches can be conducted on a smartphone using either the Electrify America app or the MyAudi app.

Directions can then be sent to the vehicle wirelessly via Apple CarPlay (currently available) or wireless Android Auto (coming to production models, but not present in the tested vehicles). A USB-C port in the center armrest also allows for smartphone connection.

I was unable to evaluate the MyAudi app personally, as it requires linking a vehicle’s VIN for privacy protection. However, Audi explains that users can plan routes within the app, and the system will automatically incorporate charging stops to ensure sufficient battery reserve upon arrival.

To assist luxury car buyers transitioning to all-electric vehicles, Audi is introducing Audi Care for EVs with the e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT. For an additional $999 plus tax, owners receive vehicle servicing for four years, covering wear items like wipers and brake pads.

This package also includes valet pick-up and drop-off for service appointments, mobile service options (tire changes, basic maintenance), and up to ten complimentary tows to an Audi center annually. Additionally, Audi offers seven free rental days from Audi by Silvercar with the purchase of either the e-tron GT or RS e-tron GT.

A Look Inside the Virtual Cockpit

2022 Audi e-tron GT. Image Credits: Audi

The Audi e-tron GT and its high-performance counterpart, the RS e-tron GT, successfully integrate elements from the e-tron SUV line and the iconic Audi R8. Both GT models are equipped with dual screens, providing a comprehensive suite of functionalities for both the driver and passengers.

A highly configurable 12.3-inch virtual cockpit is positioned directly in front of the driver. This feature, common in contemporary Audi vehicles, grants access to vital information such as map displays and battery status through intuitive controls located on the steering wheel.

The system simplifies navigation considerably. Drivers and passengers can utilize voice control to input destinations by activating the steering wheel button and verbally providing an address, landmark, or city name.

Notably, the voice recognition system demonstrates impressive accuracy. While a slight delay was observed during testing, it effectively interprets natural language and proactively guides the user with specific prompts when faced with ambiguous choices.

For instance, the system distinguishes between canceling an existing route and adding a stopover, ensuring precise command execution. Repeated attempts were never required to achieve desired results.

The centrally located 10.1-inch infotainment system provides access to a wide range of features. These include drive mode selection, dedicated Audi applications, navigation, and optional comfort settings like seat massage, heating, and ventilation.

The Audi MMI center screen employs touch-capacitive technology. Users can personalize the home screen layout by dragging and dropping icons, offering a tailored experience for both drivers and passengers.

Simultaneous operation of seat heating, cooling, and massage functions is possible, provided the vehicle is equipped with the corresponding options, all managed conveniently through the MMI interface.

A Touch of Extra Flair?

With both GT models exceeding the $100,000 price point, certain customers might desire a heightened sense of exclusivity and visual appeal.

The Year One Package

Audi provides a distinctive, albeit costly, option for the initial model year of the RS e-tron GT: the Year One package. This package, priced at $20,350, incorporates the “carbon performance” enhancements.

• These enhancements include carbon-fiber interior accents.
• Illuminated door sills are also included.
• The exterior benefits from blacked-out badging.
• Rear-wheel steering is incorporated for improved handling.

Furthermore, the package features unique 21-inch wheels, striking red ceramic brake calipers, and interior detailing with red seatbelts and red stitching.

A Subtle Statement

The 2022 Audi e-tron GT and Audi RS e-tron GT are ideally suited for individuals seeking the sophistication, performance, and cutting-edge technology associated with a premium brand.

These vehicles represent an electric grand tourer that prioritizes substance over ostentation, though the option for added visual impact is available. Both models are currently available for purchase.

2022 Audi RS e-tron GT. Image Credits: Audi