One thing about automakers is the burning desire to outdo themselves by releasing vehicles with unparalleled functionality, and VE Automakers often strive to increase range and battery life while providing exquisite interior and exterior design. The Tesla Model X and the Audi e-tron are two fascinating luxury electric vehicles, the latter being Audi’s first electric SUV. With the e-tron, Audi joins a growing list of automakers offering entry-level electric vehicles, or electric versions of longtime brands like what Ford did for the Mustang.
Tesla is no newbie to the EV game with a range of options available like the Model S, Model Y and Model 3. The highly anticipated Tesla Cybertruck, an electric pickup truck, is also expected to launch soon. On the other hand, the Audi e-tron is no pushover with a long range, quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) performance and a 5-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA ).
The Tesla Model X’s hawk-wing doors are among the electric SUV’s most popular features. The Model X’s cabin can be called minimalist, but it offers enough space for five people. This can be upgraded to accommodate seven people at an additional cost. The e-tron has a five-seat configuration with no upgrade option. However, the Audi e-tron offers a wide range of exterior colors ranging from Mythos Black metallic to Manhattan Gray metallic. Unlike the Model X, the Audi is designed to look like a real SUV with LED headlights/taillights and sleek wheels. Depending on the model, wheel options consist of a 20-inch turbine (five double spokes), a 21-inch two-tone design (five double spokes) or a 21-inch V-design (five double spokes) . While the e-tron sports a sleek grille on its front bumper, the Tesla Model X lacks one.
Compared to the Tesla Model X, the Audi e-tron offers three trim packages: Premium, Premium Plus and Chronos Edition. The Model X only has two trims in the form of the Model X and the Model X Plaid. However, the Plaid is the performance variant with a peak power of 1,020 hp, three electric motors, a top speed of 163 mph and an estimated range of 331 miles. Tesla claims the Plaid variant can go from 0 to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds. The best version of the Audi e-tron, Chronos Edition, falls short of the Plaid with just two electric motors, a maximum output of 402hp and a paltry 124mph top speed. When it comes to acceleration, the Chronos Edition falls short of the Tesla Model X record by hitting 60 mph from zero in 5.5 seconds.
Unfortunately, the Tesla Model X’s infotainment design is hugely successful as the SUV does not support Apple Carplay or Android Auto despite high-tech features such as wireless controller compatibility for games, a sound system 22-speaker 960-watt equipped with Active Road Noise Reduction and 17-inch touchscreen. The Audi e-tron is compatible with Apple Carplay and Android Auto and has a 12.3-inch HD screen that allows the driver to easily view navigation maps and directions. A Bang & Olufsen Premium sound system is also available for e-tron drivers to enjoy the best audio experience.
When it comes to price, the Tesla Model X outsells the Audi e-tron with the base model costing $128,990 and the performance edition, Plaid, costing at least $146,990. Those looking for a more affordable electric vehicle will flock to the Audi e-tron, with the base model costing $65,900. The Premium Plus sells for $74,800, with the performance edition selling for $83,400. Finally, the e-tron qualifies for a $7,500 federal tax credit, which Tesla has long lost since the company maxed its share of the incentives for more than $200,000. VE sold.
Source: Audi, Tesla