New Audi e-tron S 2021 detailed: Tesla Model Y rival goes official with high-performance focus

Audi has officially revealed the high-performance e-tron S mid-size SUV, with the all-electric model taking its camouflage off to show its production form.

As reported in February, the e-tron S is available in traditional wagon and coupe-style Sportback body-styles, with its tri-motor powertrain developing up to 370kW of power and 973Nm of torque during eight seconds of overboost, or 320kW and 808Nm during normal driving.

The third electric motor is located on the rear axle, enabling torque vectoring for better handling. In most scenarios, the two rear electric motors exclusively provide power, with their counterpart up front only kicking in during hard acceleration and/or when traction starts being lost.

This combination helps the e-tron S sprint from a standstill to 100km/h in just 4.5 seconds, while its top speed is electronically limited to 210km/h.

The e-tron S uses the same 95kWh (86Wh usable) battery as the dual-motor e-tron 55, travelling 359km (wagon) or 364km (Sportback) between charges on the WLTP test cycle.

Inside, front sports seats and Nappa leather upholstery feature.

A 150kW DC fast charger can recharge the battery from five to 80 per cent capacity in about half an hour, while 11kW AC chargers are also supported.

As with all S models, the new e-tron flagship comes with sports suspension (with adaptive dampers and air springs), as well as electric power steering with a variable ratio.

Visually, very little separates the S from the ‘regular’ e-tron, although there is a tweaked front bumper with larger air intakes, big alloy wheels, a more prominent rear diffuser and aluminium trim. Trainspotters will also notice the wider wheelarches (+23mm).

Inside, front sports seats, Nappa leather upholstery, different trim options and a smattering of ‘S’ badges are the only giveaways you’re dealing with the quickest e-tron yet.

Audi Australia has confirmed the Tesla Model Y Performance rival will reach local showrooms in the second half of next year. For reference, the e-tron 50 and 55 are set to arrive in September.