What defines the 2025 e-tron GT lineup?

 

The new Audi e-tron GT represents a significant evolution in the Audi electric vehicle portfolio, featuring three distinct variants that cater to different performance appetites. The lineup starts with the S e-tron GT, which serves as the entry point to the Audi electric grand touring experience. At the pinnacle sits the formidable RS e-tron GT Performance—the most powerful production car Audi has ever created. Both models share the same sophisticated platform and electric architecture but differ substantially in their performance characteristics, feature sets, and overall driving experiences. This refreshed lineup addresses previous limitations with enhanced range, faster charging capabilities, and more responsive driving dynamics, making the choice between models more compelling than ever for prospective electric vehicle enthusiasts.

How do the powertrains compare between models?

 

Both the S e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT Performance utilize dual electric motors and the Audi electric quattro all-wheel drive system, but the similarities end there. The base S e-tron GT delivers an impressive 679 horsepower in launch control mode, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 3.5 seconds. The RS e-tron GT Performance, however, unleashes a staggering 925 horsepower when launch control is activated, propelling it from standstill to 100 km/h in just 2.5 seconds—making it one of the quickest production cars available regardless of powertrain type.

Both variants feature permanent-magnet synchronous AC motors at the front and rear axles; however, the RS Performance benefits from more powerful rear motor specifications and enhanced power electronics, which enable its superior output. The instantaneous torque delivery characteristic of electric motors is present in both models. Still, the additional power of the RS Performance creates an acceleration experience that rivals or exceeds many hypercars, despite maintaining the practical four-door configuration and comfortable cabin of a grand tourer.

What range and charging capabilities do these models offer?

 

The e-tron GT models have received significant improvements in their energy storage and management systems. Both variants now feature a larger 97.0-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, an increase from the previous generation’s 83.7-kWh capacity. This increased energy storage, combined with improved efficiency, results in significant range improvements. The S e-tron GT achieves approximately 483 kilometres of range, while the more powerful RS e-tron GT Performance manages about 447 kilometres.

Charging capabilities have also seen substantial enhancements across the lineup. Both models can now accept up to 320 kW of DC fast charging power, with improved thermal management allowing for higher sustained charging rates across the entire charging curve. This advancement means that despite the larger battery capacity, charging times have actually decreased. Under optimal conditions, both variants can recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 20 minutes when connected to compatible high-power charging stations.

Additionally, regenerative braking capabilities have been significantly upgraded, with both models now able to recuperate up to 400 kW during deceleration—110 kW more than the previous generation. This enhanced regeneration not only contributes to an extended range but also provides more adjustability for drivers to tailor their driving experience.

 

How do the chassis and suspension systems differ?

 

While both the S e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT Performance share the same fundamental platform, the suspension tuning and available chassis technologies create distinct driving characteristics. Both models feature the newly developed air suspension system that utilizes a two-chamber, two-valve setup, replacing the previous three-chamber, single-valve configuration. This advancement enables independent control of compression and rebound, resulting in enhanced ride quality and improved handling precision.

The RS e-tron GT Performance, however, receives additional chassis enhancements as standard equipment that are optional on the S model. These include active dampers that can respond to road conditions in milliseconds, rear-axle steering that improves both low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability, and a more sophisticated torque vectoring system that can precisely distribute power between the rear wheels.

Perhaps the most significant chassis difference is the RS Performance standard carbon-ceramic brake system, which not only provides exceptional stopping power but also reduces unsprung weight by approximately 20 kg compared to the standard brakes found on the S model. The RS Performance also comes equipped with performance-oriented Pirelli P Zero PZ4 Elect summer tires, while the S model features all-season rubber as standard; however, summer tires remain an optional upgrade.

 

What luxury and technology features separate these models?

 

Inside the cabin, both models showcase the renowned Audi craftsmanship and attention to detail. However, the RS e-tron GT Performance includes several premium features as standard that are optional on the S variant. Both models feature the latest MMI touch response system, which includes dual screens—a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch infotainment display. Additionally, they come standard with navigation, wireless smartphone integration, and a premium audio system.

The RS Performance distinguishes itself with standard carbon fibre interior trim elements, a flat-bottomed RS steering wheel featuring additional drive mode controls, and more aggressively bolstered sport seats that include the RS embossing and contrast stitching. The RS also includes the Audi Black Optic exterior package as standard, which replaces traditional chrome elements with high-gloss black accents for a more menacing appearance.

Both models feature the latest driver assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking. However, the RS Performance includes a full suite of advanced driver assistance features as standard, including night vision assistant, intersection assist, and the surround-view camera system that provides a 360-degree perspective when maneuvering in tight spaces.

 

How do the exterior designs differentiate the models?

 

While sharing the same sleek silhouette and fundamental design language, several visual cues distinguish the base S e-tron GT from the top-tier RS Performance variant. Both feature distinct Audi e-tron design elements, including the closed Singleframe grille, pronounced wheel arches, and sculpted side panels that emphasize the car’s electric powertrain while maintaining the characteristic Audi elegance.

The RS e-tron GT Performance amplifies these elements with more aggressive front and rear fascias, featuring larger air intakes and a more pronounced diffuser. It also includes a standard carbon fibre roof panel that not only reduces weight but also lowers the centre of gravity for improved handling dynamics. The RS Performance comes standard with 21-inch wheels (versus the 20-inch wheels on the S model) and features distinctive RS badging throughout the exterior.

Another visual differentiator is the RS Performance exclusive access to matte paint finishes and the available carbon exterior package, which adds carbon fibre elements to the mirror caps, front splitter, and rear spoiler for an even more motorsport-inspired appearance. While both models project a commanding presence on the road, the RS Performance enhanced visual elements clearly communicate its position as the flagship of the e-tron GT lineup.

 

 

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5 Facts About the 2025 Audi e-tron GT

 

1. Sound Engineering: The RS e-tron GT Performance features a specially designed acoustic system that synthesizes a unique electric sports sound, changing in character and volume based on driving mode and accelerator position, creating an emotional auditory experience despite the absence of a combustion engine.

2. Sustainable Luxury: Both e-tron GT models offer an optional interior package that replaces traditional leather with Dinamica microfiber and Cascade fabric—materials created entirely from recycled PET bottles and reclaimed textile fibers, aligned with sustainability objectives.

3. Intelligent Thermal Management: The e-tron GT models feature a sophisticated thermal management system with four separate cooling circuits that can be interconnected as needed, enabling the battery temperature to adjust for performance, longevity, or rapid charging, depending on the conditions.

4. Rear Seat Foot Garage: Despite the sleek roofline, Audi engineers created what they call a “foot garage”—recessed areas in the battery pack beneath the rear seats that provide additional foot space for rear passengers without compromising structural integrity or safety.

5. Bi-Directional Charging Capability: The e-tron GT models are the first Audi vehicles to support bi-directional charging, allowing them to not only take power from the grid but also supply electricity back to power a home during outages or reduce energy costs during peak pricing periods.

 

 

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Q&A: 2025 Audi e-tron GT Base S vs RS Performance

 

What is the exact power difference between the S e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT Performance?

• The S e-tron GT produces 679 horsepower in launch control mode, while the RS e-tron GT Performance delivers 925 horsepower under the same conditions—a substantial difference of 246 horsepower that is readily apparent during acceleration.

How much additional range does the S e-tron GT provide compared to the RS Performance model?

• The S e-tron GT offers approximately 36 kilometres of additional range compared to the RS Performance model (483 km vs. 447 km), primarily due to the RS model’s more powerful motors and performance-oriented components that slightly reduce efficiency.

Are there differences in the braking systems between the two models?

• Yes, the RS e-tron GT Performance comes standard with carbon-ceramic brakes, which provide superior stopping power and fade resistance compared to the conventional steel brakes on the S model. The carbon-ceramic system also reduces unsprung weight by about 20 kg, contributing to improved handling.

Do both models have the same wheel and tire options?

• While both models offer similar wheel designs, the S e-tron GT comes standard with 20-inch wheels and all-season tires, whereas the RS Performance features 21-inch wheels with performance-oriented summer tires. The RS also offers exclusive wheel designs not available on the S model.

Is there a difference in charging speed between the models?

• Both the S e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT Performance support the same maximum 320 kW DC fast charging rate. However, the RS model includes the enhanced charging package as standard, which adds an additional onboard charger for faster AC charging at 22 kW compared to the S model’s standard 11 kW capability.

What exclusive interior features does the RS Performance offer?

• It features several exclusive interior elements, including honeycomb-stitched RS sport seats with pneumatic side bolsters, an RS-specific steering wheel with additional driving mode controls, and carbon fibre trim elements. It also features ambient lighting with RS-specific colour profiles.

Can both models tow, and if so, is there a difference in capacity?

• Both models have the same towing capability when equipped with the optional towing package. They can tow up to 1,600 kg of braked trailer weight, though Audi recommends limiting extended towing to preserve battery range.

Do the models differ in their regenerative braking capabilities?

• Both models offer the same enhanced regenerative braking system, which can recuperate up to 400 kW during deceleration. However, the RS Performance features a more sophisticated blend of regenerative and friction braking, resulting in a smoother transition when driving in dynamic situations.

Are there any exclusive exterior colours available for the RS Performance model?

• Yes, it offers several exclusive exterior finishes, including Ascari Blue metallic and Tactical Green matte, which are not available on the S model. The RS also exclusively offers matte finish options across its colour palette.

How do the warranties differ between the two models?

• Both models come with identical warranty coverage: a comprehensive 4-year/80,000-kilometre vehicle warranty and an 8-year/160,000-kilometre battery warranty, which guarantees at least 70% the original capacity retention. The RS Performance does include complimentary scheduled maintenance for the first 2 years/30,000 kilometres, which is optional on the S model.
  
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