Q4 e-tron vs QX50
Audi brings the Q4 e-tron; Infiniti answers with the QX50. Both play in the compact luxury suv class. Where they differ, they differ gently, which makes the few meaningful gaps worth a closer look.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Q4 e-tron wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance6.9
- Engine & Performance4.2
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The Q4 e-tron has 122 lb-ft more torque
Here the Q4 e-tron pulls well ahead of the QX50, with 402 lb-ft compared to 280 lb-ft. Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
-
The Q4 e-tron has 14 hp more power
Only a little separates them: 282 hp on the Q4 e-tron, 268 hp on the QX50. The Q4 e-tron’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | Q4 e-tron | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | N/A (not specified) | 184.7 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | N/A (not specified) | 74.9 in |
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 110.2 in |
Engine & Performance
Q4 e-tron leads
Few areas are as clear-cut as this one: the Q4 e-tron leads the engine & performance section with room to spare. The Q4 e-tron steps ahead thanks to 122 lb-ft more torque. More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades. If this section decides it for you, choose the Q4 e-tron.
Torque
Q4 e-tron: 402 lb-ft QX50: 280 lb-ft The Q4 e-tron’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Total system output
Q4 e-tron: 282 hp QX50: 268 hp Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
Neither pulls ahead on space & practicality; the numbers are close throughout. The space & practicality verdict: no winner, and no reason to worry either way.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Neither the Q4 e-tron nor the QX50 has a real advantage in the off-road & towing category. Treat off-road & towing as common ground and look elsewhere for the deciding factor.
Safety & Tech
Here the spec sheet speaks in model names and types. Compare the Q4 e-tron and the QX50 row by row in the table below.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Q4 e-tron | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Electric | Gas |
| Engine | Single rear electric motor | 2.0L turbo I4 (VC-Turbo) |
| Total system output | 282 hp (winner) | 268 hp |
| Torque | 402 lb-ft (winner) | 280 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 1-speed direct drive | CVT |
| Drivetrain | RWD (quattro AWD available) | FWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Q4 e-tron | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | N/A (not specified) | 26 mpg |
| Fuel economy (city) | N/A (not specified) | 23 mpg |
| Fuel economy (highway) | N/A (not specified) | 29 mpg |
| Electric range | 288 mi Shortest electric range | N/A (not specified) |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Q4 e-tron | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | N/A (not specified) | 31.4 cu ft Biggest cargo area |
| Cargo (seats folded) | N/A (not specified) | 65.1 cu ft Most room, seats folded |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Q4 e-tron | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Q4 e-tron | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 60,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | Q4 e-tron | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | N/A (not specified) | 184.7 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | N/A (not specified) | 74.9 in |
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 110.2 in |
Price
| Spec | Q4 e-tron | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $49,800 | N/A (not specified) |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Q4 e-tron if…
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (402 lb-ft vs 280 lb-ft of torque)
- you merge, overtake or climb hills with a full load (282 hp vs 268 hp)
- you already use other Audi products
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the Q4 e-tron or the QX50?
On the specs compared here, the Q4 e-tron makes more sense for most buyers; the QX50 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Cross-brand comparisons are where I find the real differences in philosophy, and the Q4 e-tron versus the QX50 shows that nicely. The biggest reason I lean toward the Q4 e-tron is simple: it has 122 lb-ft more torque.
Match the strength to your habits (engine & performance for the Q4 e-tron, the things a spec sheet can’t capture for the QX50), and you won’t go far wrong.
My pick: the Q4 e-tron.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.