Can the e-tron GT deliver like how its sibling does
The Audi e-tron GT was first unveiled in Malaysia in February 2023 with all its tasty details and more.
There were two versions made available for eager Malaysians to buy, the e-tron GT Quattro and the e-tron GT RS version.
Here is the strange issue we are having with its naming process. The version we are test driving here is called a ‘RS’ which means it must have a ‘turbocharger’ to kick in the added horsepower and torque like in all the Audi RS models. Right?
Well, this is a full battery powered electric car and so there is no petrol engine which means there is no ‘turbocharger’. So, the ‘RS’ version now becomes the ‘top’ specification e-tron and like ‘M’ power and ‘AMG’ power in electric vehicles, the RS joins the ranks in delivering a rather special variant.
‘Times’ have changed and we need to change in our mindset also. Right, so the e-tron GT quattro comes with twin motors that deliver an output of 469 PS and 630 Nm of torque.
Now, this figure jumps to 523 hp and 640 Nm when ‘launch control’ is activated which will deliver a rest to 100km/h acceleration time of 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 245 km/h.
Now, with the more powerful RS e-tron GT which we are test driving here, the combined power output is 590 hp and 830 Nm of torque, which increases to 637 hp when overboost is activated. All this means that you get a 0-100 km/h in a hypercar sizzling time of 3.3 seconds with launch control engaged and an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h.
Now, all this figures might start making you dizzy with excitement as the asking price of this RS is just RM793,790.00 (right now all electric cars have no import duties) which is more than 50 percent lower than the 0-100km/h 3.0 seconds McLaren Artura which retails for RM1,050,000 before taxes are included.
Then there is the V12 Lamborghini Revuelto HPEV that accelerates in just 2.5 seconds and is priced from around RM2.5 million before duties, import taxes and options which makes the Audi e-tron RS price about 85 percent or so cheaper.
This Audi delivers 3.3 seconds acceleration time which when we tried is already scary and ridiculous and we think there is little need to pay 6 times more money to get a Lamborghini that is just 0.8 seconds quicker at 2.5 seconds. The Artura is only 0.3 seconds quicker and after taxes might be almost 3 times more expensive.
Still, the final decision is yours and you might remark that the e-tron GT RS is a four door sports car. However, when you see the e-tron in motion, you will appreciate its sleek, sexy design and sports car like muscular arches which delivers more than enough curbside attention.
Meanwhile, open the e-tron pillar-less doors and you will be greeted by a true low slung sports car cabin. The RS seats are firm figure hugging and even the rear 2 passengers get comfortable space with ample legroom. The dashboard is shared with petrol powered Audi’s which means it is easy to get used to and ‘work’ if you are current Audi owner.
With the battery pack sitting on the ‘floor’ of the e-tron, the handling is near perfect and steering control at speeds is perfect. Yes, the e-tron is heavy and you can feel its weight when riding across speed humps and uneven surfaces, however this will soon be forgotten with its power delivery.
The quick acting motors take away the ‘weight’ with its great torque delivery right up to illegal highway speeds.
The quality interior fit and finish reminds the driver and passengers that this is a luxury electric car that also delivers great cabin acoustics with its premium sound system.
There is enough center console features and technology to rival the best and it is easy to work and ‘pair’ with your smartphone.
How fast will this e-tron ‘fuel up’? Topping up the batteries from 5 percent to 80 percent will be done in just 22 minutes, thanks to the 800 V electric architecture that supports 270 kW DC fast charging. With charging stations being installed around the country as you read this, there is no issue (except during peak public holidays) to get the batteries charged up and it is always better to charge your EV at home.
Visit an Audi showroom and take a test drive, be ready for some entertaining acceleration.
Audi RS e-tron GT Specifications
Battery Capacity: 93 kWh
Range NEDC: 495km
Max power: 646PS
Max torque: 830Nm
Gearbox: 2-speed automatic transmission
Top Speed: 250km/h limited
0-100 km/h: 3.6 seconds
Selling Price: RM793,790.00
