One thing about automakers is the burning desire to outsell one another by releasing vehicles packed with unmatched features, and EV automakers often strive to increase driving range and battery life while offering exquisite interior and exterior design.
The Tesla Model X and Audi e-tron are two fascinating luxury EVs, the latter being Audi’s first electric SUV. With the e-tron, Audi joins a growing list of automakers offering entry-level EVs, or electric versions of long-standing brands like what Ford did for the Mustang.
Tesla is no newbie to the EV game with a lineup of available options like the Model S, Model Y, and Model 3. The long-awaited 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 driving 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 falcon-wing doors count as one of the electric SUV’s most popular features. The Model X’s cabin may be characterized as minimalist, but it does offer ample seating space for five people. This can be upgraded to accommodate seven at an additional charge. The e-tron has a five-seat configuration with no option to upgrade.
However, the Audi e-tron does offer a vast range of exterior colors ranging from Mythos Black metallic to Manhattan Gray metallic. Unlike the Model X, the Audi is designed to look like an actual SUV with LED headlights/taillights and stylish wheels. Depending on the model, the wheel options consist of 20-inch (five-double-spoke) Turbine, 21-inch (five-spoke) bi-color, or 21-inch (five-double-spoke) V-design. While the e-tron sports an elegant grille design on its front bumper, the Tesla Model X lacks one.
Compared to the Tesla Model X, the Audi e-tron has three trim packages: Premium, Premium Plus, and Chronos Edition. The Model X has just two trims in the form of the Model X and Model X Plaid.
However, the Plaid is the performance variant with a peak power output of 1,020 hp, three electric motors, a top speed of 163 mph, and an estimated driving range of 331 miles. Tesla claims that the Plaid variant can race from 0 to 60 mph within 2.5 seconds. The Audi e-tron’s best trim, Chronos Edition, is no match for the Plaid with just two electric motors, a max output of 402 hp, and a paltry top speed of 124 mph. Regarding acceleration, the Chronos Edition falls short of the Tesla Model X’s record by hitting 60 mph from zero in 5.5 seconds.
Unfortunately, the Tesla Model X’s infotainment design suffers a huge hit as the SUV doesn't support Apple Carplay or Android Auto despite having hi-tech features like wireless controller compatibility for gaming, a 22-speaker, 960-watt audio system fitted with Active Road Noise Reduction, and a 17-inch touchscreen.
The Audi e-tron is compatible with Apple Carplay and Android Auto and features A 12.3-inch HD display that allows the driver to easily view navigation maps and directions. A Bang & Olufsen Premium sound system is also available so e-tron drivers can enjoy the best audio experience.
Regarding price, the Tesla Model X outdoes the Audi e-tron with the base model costing $128,990 and the performance edition, Plaid, costing a minimum of $146,990. Folks seeking a more affordable EV will swarm to the Audi e-tron, with the base model costing $65,900. The Premium Plus sells for $74,800, with the performance edition retailing at $83,400.
Finally, the e-tron qualifies for a $7,500 federal tax credit, something that Tesla has long lost since the company maxed out its share of the incentives for over 200,000 EVs sold.