2023 Audi e-tron S Sportback
20" wheels
Luxury Electric SUV · AWD
Based on battery health, build quality, owner data, EPA range, and market pricing
Above average for 2023 EV SUVs (class avg 66 · top 37%)
Personalize this scoreIs a low score bad?
Last scanned 32 days ago
The 2023 Audi e-tron S Sportback (20-inch wheels) is rated at 496 hp, 212 miles of EPA range and a 87 kWh battery, and plan around the short range and check that home and route charging cover daily use.
Score read
A 68/100 makes this worth comparing, not chasing. Do not let the composite hide this split: software and driver-assist score is 90/100, while range and efficiency score is 38/100. Reddit threads cluster around build quality and owner satisfaction — verify both against the service records. Documented completion matters more than the recall count itself.
Price context
This trim started from $90,800 new. Used examples have come down since launch, but pricing varies by miles, condition, and how the model is moving right now; pull a current KBB Fair Purchase, an Edmunds True Market Value, or an active dealer listing for this exact trim, and anchor your offer there. Walk if the seller will not move off new-car-style pricing.
Who this is for
✓ Good for
- ⏱ Daily commuter ≤50 mi/day, predictable charging
✗ Avoid if you are a
- ☷ Family hauler 3+ kids, cargo, towing
- ↦ Road tripper Long trips, needs DC fast network
- $ Bargain hunter Best TCO, reliability + low depreciation
Gotchas
- Serviceable Recall paperwork has to match the exact VIN.
Mitigation Use NHTSA and the automaker lookup, then require repair records instead of a verbal promise.
- Built in Range is the easy place to overbuy this trim (38/100).
Mitigation Check your commute, winter margin, and fast-charge plan before you assume the EPA number fits your use.
- Verify Current market pricing is not confirmed well enough for this trim.
Mitigation Compare KBB, J.D. Power, and live listings for the same trim before treating price as a buying signal.
Pre-purchase inspection
- 1 Run the exact VIN through NHTSA and the automaker recall lookup before discussing price.
- 2 Compare the dashboard range estimate with the EPA 212-mile rating after a full charge.
- 3 Confirm how much of the 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty remains and whether it transfers.
- 4 If road trips matter, run a short DC fast-charge session and watch whether speed tapers normally.
- 5 Map your normal highway route and winter margin against the EPA range before you treat it as a road-trip car.
VIN status first This model has 3 NHTSA recall records. The exact VIN lookup decides whether the car in front of you is clear.
Complaint context This scan found 4 NHTSA complaint records (10 per 10K VINs, near industry average). Read the themes below before treating the raw count as the verdict.
Price anchor Current market range is $34,223-$37,000. Use that range to compare listings for the same trim, mileage, and condition.
Pricing & Market Value
Score Breakdown
What matters most to you?
Drag the sliders to prioritize what you care about. Your TrimIndex Score recalculates instantly.
Vehicle Specifications
EVs at your price point that match or beat this trim
Price-gated peer set: vehicles within $28.5K–$42.7K market value (±20% of $35.6K). 1 outscore · 5 score within ±2. Mixed across makes — no "spend more, score better" comps.
Model Y
- ✓ +98 mi more range
- ✓ 800V DC charging
Ioniq 5
- ✓ +106 mi more range
- ✓ 800V DC charging
Niro
- ✓ Better build quality
- ✓ Better infotainment UX
- ✓ Better safety score
Q8 e-tron
- ✓ +88 mi more range
Model X
- ✓ +159 mi more range
- ✓ 800V DC charging
XC40
- ✓ +81 mi more range
The federal $4,000 used-EV credit ended Sept 30, 2025.
But 10 states still run their own used-EV rebate programs — some up to $5,000. Pick your state to see what's available for this trim.
Source & disclaimer
Dealers make ~$10,058 on the average car loan.
After the price is set, the finance manager runs four plays to rebuild margin. Every buyer without a pre-approval is a target. Here's exactly what they run — and what stops each one.
78% of dealer loans carry a hidden +1.13% markup above what the lender actually charges. You never see it — it's buried in the contract. · CFPB
Dealer must match or beat your lender — they can't add margin invisibly. The markup play is dead on arrival.
Once you answer, they stretch the term to hit your number. Median result: $4K less off the price, 12 more months on the loan. · Industry avg
Financing is done. Only the sale price is on the table — and the dealer knows it.
Back-office F&I profit averages $1,975/vehicle, up 8.5% YoY. These products exist — but dealer markup is 4–10x what you'd pay elsewhere. · Dealership Guy
Dealer GAP runs $500–1K. Your insurer sells the same coverage for $100–250 over 5 years. Now you know.
"Your loan fell through — come re-sign." This pulls your APR up +5% on average. It's legal. It works because you've already driven the car home. · Ctr for Responsible Lending
A lender commitment letter means the deal is final. "Pending dealer approval" doesn't apply. You can't be yo-yo'd.
That's 19 months of your car payment — handed to the dealer's finance department for nothing.
Takes 2 minutes. No obligation to use it — but you'll walk in with all the leverage.
Pre-approval is a soft credit inquiry — no score impact. FICO treats all auto-loan hard pulls within 14 days as one, so you can still shop rates at the dealer.
NHTSA Recalls (3)
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2024 Audi E-Tron and 2020-2024 Audi E-Tron Sportback vehicles. The fastener that connects the brake pedal and the brake booster may have been improperly assembled during manufacturing, which can cause the brake pedal to detach from the brake booster.
Brake pedal detachment can cause a loss of brake function and increase the risk of a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2026 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 RS e-tron GT, e-tron GT, Q4 e-tron Sportback, Q4 e-tron, 2020-2021 Audi A8, 2019-2024 e-tron Quattro, 2020-2024 e-tron Sportback Quattro, Q5, and 2021-2022 A7 vehicles. When using the industrial 220V/240V plug at the 100% charge setting, some home power outlets may be incapable of handling the electrical current required to use the compact charging system, causing the outlet or charging cable to overheat.
An overheated outlet or charging cable can increase the risk of a fire.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govNHTSA Complaints (4 total · 10 per 10K US vehicles · near industry average)
On at least two occasions, my car suddenly accelerated when I was trying to reverse from a parking spot. The acceleration was very sudden. I did not even have my foot on accelerator at the time. This is extremely scary. In one occasion, I did hit a passing car as my car accelerated. Fortunately no one was hurt (or killed!), but had damage to both the cars. Second time when this happened, fortunately I was able to stop it before it hit any car behind me. On internet there are many Audi E-tron owners have similar experience either while reversing or simply while trying to park the car - the car accelerates without any warning. NHTSA need to force Audi to recall these cars and make needed corrections and updates as needed to prevent any further disaster due to this issue.
On at least two occasions, my car suddenly accelerated when I was trying to reverse from a parking spot. The acceleration was very sudden. I did not even have my foot on accelerator at the time. This is extremely scary. In one occasion, I did hit a passing car as my car accelerated. Fortunately no one was hurt (or killed!), but had damage to both the cars. Second time when this happened, fortunately I was able to stop it before it hit any car behind me. On internet there are many Audi E-tron owners have similar experience either while reversing or simply while trying to park the car - the car accelerates without any warning. NHTSA need to force Audi to recall these cars and make needed corrections and updates as needed to prevent any further disaster due to this issue.
Audi E-Tron (Q8) sudden unintentional acceleration caused a collision to stationary object while releasing brake on a turn. The accelerator was not touched while turning the steering wheel into the drive. It instead launched forward beyond the agreed 5 MPH and hit a tree. Causing significant damage to the vehicle’s front passenger wheel and hood. The airbags did not deploy nor did the “pre-sense” safety collision avoidance sensor attempted to stop the vehicle from hitting the object.
Audi E-Tron (Q8) sudden unintentional acceleration caused a collision to stationary object while releasing brake on a turn. The accelerator was not touched while turning the steering wheel into the drive. It instead launched forward beyond the agreed 5 MPH and hit a tree. Causing significant damage to the vehicle’s front passenger wheel and hood. The airbags did not deploy nor did the “pre-sense” safety collision avoidance sensor attempted to stop the vehicle from hitting the object.
Vehicle malfunctioned and stopped in middle of highway with no warning. It forcefully braked to shutdown. Was able to restart car and drive away after a minute. Two days later it had emergency SOS warning on dashboard. Took vehicle in for diagnostic and repair. When pushing software update the module locked up and car would not start. Replaced module but not confident vehicle will not repeat random behavior. No data provided by Audi to make sure this was not trial and error corrections and that the vehicle is safe.
Vehicle malfunctioned and stopped in middle of highway with no warning. It forcefully braked to shutdown. Was able to restart car and drive away after a minute. Two days later it had emergency SOS warning on dashboard. Took vehicle in for diagnostic and repair. When pushing software update the module locked up and car would not start. Replaced module but not confident vehicle will not repeat random behavior. No data provided by Audi to make sure this was not trial and error corrections and that the vehicle is safe.
The contact owns a 2023 Audi E-Tron. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH and then stopping at a stoplight, the contact attempted to accelerate the vehicle failed to respond as needed. No warning light was illuminated. The failure recurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to the dealer however, the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 380.
The contact owns a 2023 Audi E-Tron. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH and then stopping at a stoplight, the contact attempted to accelerate the vehicle failed to respond as needed. No warning light was illuminated. The failure recurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to the dealer however, the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 380.
What Owners Are Saying
"My new '22 Sportback e-tron is bank vault solid and not a single rattle, even on horrible Los Angeles roads, or driving through bumpy canyons. Audi has their head up their ass\*s when it comes to the app, but the build, fit, finish and quality of the e-tron is truly outstanding. I find e-tron build quality to be on par with Bentley, and honestly better than Rolls-Royce! #13· Apr 2, 2022 To be honest, with the quietness of the motors, even the faintest of sounds would be picked up in a typical EV cabin. Building the cabin is a real challenge for EV makers. #14· Apr 3, 2022 > JNealCox said: > > Building the cabin is a real challenge for EV makers. > > > Click to expand... ... and keeping it quiet over the years. I have an odd squeak in the passenger door around the loudspeaker and cannot locate it for the life of me. And yes, it does drive me insane when it happens. #15· May 5, 2022"
"Hi Audi E-tron owners! I’m new to the forum and just purchased a 2022 E-tron Sportback Prestige with S-Line trim! It was a lease return with only 9500 miles, white and brown interior. Just loving the car! I would like to personalize my E-tron with a few exterior changes. Any suggestions on... 62.9Kmauricedorris replied May 7, 2025 Audi A6 e-tron General Discussion Forum 4Rings Jul 31, 2024 Audi A6 e-tron Officially Revealed The U.S. will launch with the A6 e-tron, A6 e-tron quattro, and S6 e-tron Sportback variants. The U.S. market offer structure for the A6..."
"I bought from Carvana. I called the local dealer with the car info to confirm warranties and service history before purchasing and scheduling delivery. They give you 7 days to test drive and return if you're not satisfied, so I left it with Audi for two of those days for a PPI ($250). It was completely solid, other than some evidence of minor body work, likely done to cover bumps before the lease return from the original owner. I had a great experience with this vehicle, and would do it again. CPO is tempting, but there are plenty of great cars on the market, and extended warranties can be cheaper elsewhere."
"When I first got my Prestige in Dec 2019 with the double pane glass, I was amazed that I could not really hear my garage door open or close. I told myself I would NOT want to be in charge of assuring the fit and finish! I have yet encountered any rattle problem that was not my fault (something in the glove box?) and not fixable. There is an occasional body creak and I hear a little creaking from the brakes now and then, but that is only because the interior is so quiet. #3· Apr 1, 2021 that matches my experience as well - I had a truck next to me on the highway the other day and could barely hear anything at cruising speed. Now that I am Audi-spoilt, the next car will have to be even better. The bar keeps on going up #4· Apr 2, 2021 My car is 2 weeks old and has a rattle from the center console, it comes and goes which is very annoying #31· Feb 29, 2024"
"charlienielsen Nov 6, 2025 E-tron EU claim - defects and errors Unfortunately, many of us have experienced well-known manufacturing faults and defects in our beloved e-Trons. These are not minor, insignificant faults, but defective engines, transmissions, etc., and Audi has unfortunately shown a lack of responsibility in addressing these... 1330ForaFrank replied Nov 9, 2025 Audi e-tron (OG and Q8) General Discussion Forum General Discussion Forum") Big Al Nov 11, 2025 myAudi app on 2020 A3 Sportback 40 e-tron"
"Apparently, that particular update was needed in order to allow future updates to occur OTA. I've had one OTA update since then, and it screwed up most of my settings. #4· Jul 21, 2023 I’m naive. I figured this would be pretty common by now. That major companies would have figured it out. Not getting why it is so hard. Whether the data comes from a USB stick or OTA … we get software patches and updates all the time for computers. Via wifi. #5· Jul 21, 2023 > Nom said: > > I’m naive. I figured this would be pretty common by now. That major companies would have figured it out. Not getting why it is so hard. Whether the data comes from a USB stick or OTA … we get software patches and updates all the time for computers. Via wifi. > > Why so hard? > > > Click to expand..."
"9312e-quattron replied Apr 7, 2026 Audi Q6 e-tron Forum Hppy29 Nov 6, 2025 Q6 Software update 03.10.00/C -KD2 As many will have seen Audi have released a new combined update for the Q6/SQ6 e-tron. which will move the car to software 03.10.00 /C For some reason Audi are not offering this (at the moment) as a full campain but only to those who suffer some issues listed in a TBI document. My issue and... 575.8KE=Fb replied Mar 6, 2026 Audi e-tron (OG and Q8) General Discussion Forum General Discussion Forum")"
"Post KD2 update and with the current MyAudi app - the public charging part of the app has disappeared. We are still in the free charging period with Electrify America and we have not been able to start the charging at their location as the App does show the area where you key in the charger... 14289JNealCox replied Mar 11, 2026 Join the conversation about the new electric e-tron, e-tron Sportback, Q4 e-tron, e-tron GT and more, including news, specs, pricing & ownership! Audi e-tron GT General Discussion Forum Audi Q4 e-tron General Discussion Forum Audi e-tron (OG and Q8) General Discussion Forum Audi Q6 e-tron Forum e-tron Complaints, Issues And Problems - Carista Website"
Showing 8 of 29 owner excerpts (sorted by sentiment strength)