These Just Got Really CHEAP! - Audi RS e-tron GT Review

Audi RS e-tron GT Review

Main Features

• Built on the J1 platform, developed jointly by Audi and Porsche and shared with the Porsche Taycan.
• The reviewed RS model had extensive equipment, including carbon-ceramic brakes, carbon-fiber trim, Alcantara and red leather, a panoramic roof, Bang & Olufsen audio, air suspension, rear-wheel steering, ventilated seats, and massage seats.
• Other features include an active rear spoiler, a spacious front trunk, and a two-speed transmission. The reviewer said its shift at around 60–70 mph contributes to the car’s character.
• It has two charging ports, but they cannot be used simultaneously. DC fast charging is rated at up to 270 kW on this model; later versions reach 320 kW. Charging from 10% to 80% takes about 22 minutes on this version and about 18 minutes on newer models.
• Battery capacity is 93 kWh gross / 83 kWh usable. The stated range is 249 miles, while the owner estimated roughly 275 miles in real-world use. Range varies with wheel choice.

Driving Experience and Strengths

The reviewer found the car surprisingly fun and sporty, citing its engaging steering, supportive seats, strong brakes, and distinctive sound, which can be switched on or off. Air suspension smooths bumps despite the car’s weight and can be lowered for efficiency. Rear-wheel steering and adjustable driving modes add to its appeal.

The massage seats were especially praised, along with the cabin materials and overall sense of luxury. The front cabin was comfortable, and the front trunk was notably long and useful.

The reviewer considered the car rare and compelling at its sharply reduced used price.

Drawbacks and Ownership Concerns

• The software and infotainment feel dated compared with Tesla and Rivian systems. The native interface is somewhat slow, and Apple CarPlay reportedly sometimes disconnects.
• The reviewer said Audi’s more modular systems are less suited to quick over-the-air fixes; software or hardware changes may require a dealership visit.
• Reported reliability and quality issues included:
  • Repeated low-key-battery warnings.
  • A rear-brake-related repair delayed by an unavailable part.
  • A four-week service visit involving an ABS control unit and heater failure.
  • A further two weeks addressing a door-panel rattle. Rattles and creaks were also noted during the drive.
• There is noticeable road noise, which the reviewer partly attributed to the tires and wheels. A persistent speed-limit warning beep was also described as annoying.
• Rear seating is cramped and upright, with little room to relax and no seatback pocket. The trunk is small for a car of this size, and the reviewer considered its use of space less efficient than in a Tesla or Lucid.
• Repairs outside the warranty could be costly. The reviewer cautioned against buying one if an unexpected large bill would be unaffordable.

Price, Warranty, and Comparisons

The car’s original base price was cited as $147,000, with a $7,100 package for carbon-ceramic brakes, wheels, and tires. The review also refers to a highly equipped price of around $165,000.

The reviewer said non-RS examples could be found for just over $30,000, while the RS and similarly equipped cars were around $50,000–$60,000. He said he paid about $55,000 for a highly equipped example—roughly $100,000 below its original price.

Audi’s basic warranty is 4 years / 50,000 miles, and the battery warranty is 8 years / 100,000 miles. The reviewer contrasted this with the Tesla Model S battery warranty of 8 years / 150,000 miles.

Compared with the Taycan, the e-tron GT shares its platform and has similarly strong charging performance. The reviewer also noted that Taycan range varies substantially with wheel configuration.

Compared with Tesla and Rivian, Audi offers a more traditional, luxurious cabin but falls behind on software and updates. The reviewer called the Model S a potentially more reliable, simpler choice, though it lacks some traditional luxury touches such as massage seats. He also contrasted the Audi’s substantial appearance with the Tesla Model 3.

A previous Taycan wagon review was mentioned as another example of steep depreciation.

Verdict

The RS e-tron GT offers an unusually luxurious, distinctive, and entertaining driving experience for a fraction of its original price. The trade-offs are dated software, reported quality and service issues, and potentially expensive repairs.

The reviewer would not recommend it as a financially risky primary car—especially for someone earning around $70,000 a year—but considers it appealing as a second or third “fun” car, ideally with a warranty or certified-used coverage. No formal numerical rating was given.

Different Perspectives

• Reviewer: Praised the styling, cabin, driving enjoyment, brakes, sound, and value at today’s prices; emphasized the software shortcomings and repair-cost risk.
• Owner: Supplied the real-world range estimate and reported service problems, including the brake-related issue and door rattle.
• Passenger: Reacted positively to the massage seats and sporty feel during the drive.