Spy Shots – Audi E-Tron Sportback Facelift

Audi is in the process of developing a mid-cycle update for its E-Tron and E-Tron Sportback electric crossovers, and a prototype of the latter has been spotted testing in northern Sweden today. The prototype is for the updated E-Tron Sportback, but the changes seen here will also end up on the updated E-Tron SUV

The E-Tron arrived in 2018 as a 2019 model, with the coupe-like E-Tron Sportback arriving one year after the regular crossover. In Audi tradition, we should see the updated versions arrive in late 2022 as 2023 models.

The prototype points to significant styling tweaks coming, including a new headlight and grille treatment similar to what we see on the new 2022 Q4 E-Tron. The front and rear fascias also appear to feature a more streamlined look, and it’s possible the internal graphic of the taillights will sport a new design.

There isn’t a shot of the interior, but our photographer claims the prototype was fitted with a new infotainment screen. Don’t be surprised if the separate screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment in the current E-Tron are merged into a single wide display for the updated model. There should also be some major mechanical mods to help keep the E-Tron and E-Tron Sportback competitive against some of the newer competition.

It’s rumoured the vehicles will receive new batteries, more efficient electric motors, and new electronic control software to help boost range. The E-Tron arrived with just 328 kilometres of range as measured by the EPA. Efficiency updates added for 2021 saw the range increased to 357 kilometres. The mid-cycle update is expected to increase the range closer to 480 kilometres.

Audi was relatively early among established automakers to launch a credible Tesla rival when it first rolled out the E-Tron. However, to speed up the gestation, Audi modified a platform originally developed for internal-combustion cars, specifically the high-riding version of Volkswagen Group’s MLB Evo platform shared with the Audi Q7 and Q8 and multiple other VW Group crossovers.

The upcoming updates should keep the E-Tron fresh until it is redesigned around the middle of the decade on a dedicated electric-vehicle platform, at which point it may be rebranded a Q8 ETron.