Images documenting Audi’s extreme weather testing program in Sweden have revealed what looks to be a facelifted version of the e-tron S Sportback.
While not officially stated as such, the ‘spy shots’ form part of a collection were taken at the Volkswagen Group’s undisclosed facility in Sweden as part of a behind-the-scenes overview of Audi’s conventional winter testing program. The proving grounds, which cover more than 3,600 hectares, are referred to simply as ‘KALT 1’ in lieu of a definitive location.
Audi e-tron S Sportback
The side panels and roofline look to be untouched, though both the front and rear ends of the vehicle are guarded with camouflaged livery. The closed-off front grille, a hallmark of Audi’s all-electric e-tron range, is expected to stay, though subtle revisions to the fascia and the splitter suggest Audi is looking to increase aero efficiency at the front of the vehicle, thus extending the range. Changes to the rear below the full-width light bar look to be more even indistinct.
Audi e-tron S Sportback
Accompanying infographics attest that the facelifted model will feature the same tri-motor setup (one at the front, two at the rear) launched on the e-tron Sportback in 2020. Whether the revised ‘S’ edition features the same 469 hp and 717 lb-ft of torque output remains to be seen, though it is likely the 341 km of estimated range will receive an incremental increase if rumours of a larger battery – potentially up from 95 kWh to 100 kWh – are confirmed.
Though not confirmed, Auto Express has also suggested that the e-tron S could be renamed as the Q8 e-tron Sportback hereafter in preparation for the arrival of the Mercedes EQE-rivalling Q6 e-tron later this year.
