USED CARS
Grading on their curves
These upmarket electric SUVs have striking looks to go with their promise of sensible running costs. But this is more than just a beauty contest
*Price today is based on a 2022 example with low mileage and full service history, correct at time of writing
PRICE TODAY £31,500*
AUDI Q4 SPORTBACK E-TRON 50 quattro S line
List price when new £56,045
Available from 2021-present
The Q4 Sportback puts the emphasis on refinement and comfort, while it offers a longer official range than its rival
PRICE TODAY £29,900*
VOLVO C40 RECHARGE Twin Plus
List price when new £55,550
Available from 2021-present
With more than 400bhp on tap, the C40 is seriously rapid, and it’s a bit cheaper to buy than the Q4 at three years old
1 Adjusting the air temperature is a breeze, thanks to physical buttons that sit below the infotainment screen
2 Fiddly volume control involves you touching a pad and drawing a circle on it.We’d rather use the steering wheel controls
3 Hexagonal steering wheel (an option from new) brings paddles that allow you to adjust the brake regeneration level
Photography:John Bradshaw
1 Textured plastic dashboard inserts look a little cheap, but the rest of the interior feels plush and very well made
2 Digital instrument panel is easy to read at a glance, but it doesn’t offer as many configuration options as the Q4’s
3 Few other cars have seats as comfortable as these; they’re well bolstered and have great under-thigh support
AUDI Q4 SPORTBACK
Q4 offers brisk acceleration and tidy handling, but its main strengths are its refinement and composed ride
BEST RIDE
VOLVO C40
As well as being quicker than the Q4, the C40 offers slightly sharper handling.Visibility isn’t great, though
BEST HANDLING