Introduction
The Audi Q4 e-tron, a compact luxury electric SUV, entered the US market in late 2021 as a 2022 model year vehicle, positioning itself as a key player in Audi’s expanding electric vehicle (EV) lineup. For buyers and sellers, understanding how this vehicle’s value changes over time is essential for making informed decisions, whether purchasing new, buying used, or planning a resale. Depreciation—the rate at which a vehicle loses its value—can significantly impact ownership costs, particularly for luxury EVs like the Q4 e-tron, where technological advancements and market dynamics play a substantial role.
This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the depreciation trends for the Audi Q4 e-tron, focusing on the Prestige trim with all-wheel-drive powertrains (Q4 50 e-tron for 2022–2023, Q4 55 e-tron for 2024–2025), identified as the most popular configuration based on sales data from TrueCar. We examine year-on-year depreciation trends, compare Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) to estimated used prices in 2025, and present visual aids, including a bar chart and line graph, to illustrate value retention. Additionally, we propose a general depreciation schedule, discuss factors influencing these trends, and offer insights for potential buyers, owners, and industry enthusiasts. All data is specific to the US market, ensuring relevance for American consumers.
Selection of Trim
The Prestige trim was selected for this analysis because it is the most popular model among US buyers, as reported by TrueCar. This top-tier trim includes premium features such as Matrix-design LED headlights, an augmented reality head-up display, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and advanced driver assistance systems, making it a preferred choice for consumers seeking a blend of luxury, technology, and performance.
The all-wheel-drive powertrain—Q4 50 e-tron for 2022 and 2023, and Q4 55 e-tron for 2024 and 2025—was chosen due to its widespread popularity in the US, where all-wheel drive is valued for its enhanced traction and handling, particularly in regions with diverse weather conditions. This configuration ensures the analysis reflects the most representative model in terms of sales volume and market relevance, providing a realistic picture of depreciation trends for the majority of Q4 e-tron buyers.
MSRP and Used Prices
The table below summarizes the MSRP when new and the estimated used prices in 2025 for the Audi Q4 e-tron 50/55 Prestige, sourced primarily from Kelley Blue Book. These figures offer a clear view of how the vehicle’s value has evolved over time.
| Model Year | Powertrain | MSRP (USD) | Used Price in 2025 (USD) | Retention Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Q4 50 e-tron Prestige | 58,695 | 28,078 | 47.8% |
| 2023 | Q4 50 e-tron Prestige | 64,095 | 34,446 | 53.7% |
| 2024 | Q4 55 e-tron Prestige | 63,395 | 58,919 | 92.9% |
| 2025 | Q4 55 e-tron Prestige | 63,095 | 59,915 | 94.9% |
Observations
- 2022 Model: Launched in late 2021 with an MSRP of $58,695, the 2022 Q4 50 e-tron Prestige has a used price of approximately $28,078 in 2025, reflecting a 52.2% depreciation over three years. This significant value loss is typical for early-model luxury EVs, where rapid technological advancements reduce the appeal of older versions.
- 2023 Model: Starting at $64,095, the 2023 model retains $34,446 in 2025, indicating a 46.3% depreciation over two years. The slightly higher retention compared to the 2022 model may be attributed to incremental improvements in range and performance.
- 2024 Model: With an MSRP of $63,395, the 2024 model’s used price is $58,919 in 2025, showing only a 7.1% depreciation. This high retention is likely due to its recent release, low mileage, and the upgraded Q4 55 e-tron powertrain, which offers enhanced power (335 horsepower vs. 295 horsepower) and range (258 miles vs. 241 miles), as noted by Car and Driver.
- 2025 Model: As the current model year, the 2025 Q4 55 e-tron Prestige has an MSRP of $63,095 and a used price of $59,915, indicating minimal depreciation (5.1%) for nearly new vehicles with low mileage and high market demand.
These figures underscore the steep initial depreciation common in luxury EVs, with newer models retaining significantly more value due to their recent introduction and technological enhancements.
Year-on-Year Depreciation Trends
Given the Q4 e-tron’s relatively recent entry into the US market, comprehensive historical used price data is limited. To address this, we’ve estimated year-on-year trends using a depreciation model derived from observed data and industry insights. The model assumes approximately 30% depreciation in the first year, 20% in the second, and 15% in the third, aligning closely with the observed retention rates for 2022 and 2023 models.
Estimated Used Prices by Year
The following tables estimate used prices for each model year at different ages, based on the depreciation schedule and validated against available data from Kelley Blue Book.
2022 Q4 50 e-tron Prestige (MSRP: $58,695)
| Year | Age | Estimated Used Price (USD) | Actual Used Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 0 | 58,695 (MSRP) | – |
| 2023 | 1 | 41,086 (70% retention) | – |
| 2024 | 2 | 32,869 (56% retention) | – |
| 2025 | 3 | 27,939 (48% retention) | 28,078 |
2023 Q4 50 e-tron Prestige (MSRP: $64,095)
| Year | Age | Estimated Used Price (USD) | Actual Used Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 0 | 64,095 (MSRP) | – |
| 2024 | 1 | 44,866 (70% retention) | – |
| 2025 | 2 | 35,893 (56% retention) | 34,446 |
2024 Q4 55 e-tron Prestige (MSRP: $63,395)
| Year | Age | Estimated Used Price (USD) | Actual Used Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 0 | 63,395 (MSRP) | – |
| 2025 | 1 | 44,376 (70% retention) | 58,919 |
2025 Q4 55 e-tron Prestige (MSRP: $63,095)
| Year | Age | Estimated Used Price (USD) | Actual Used Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 0 | 63,095 (MSRP) | 59,915 |
Notes on Estimates
- Estimated used prices for 2023 and 2024 for older models rely on the assumed depreciation rates, as historical used price data is sparse due to the vehicle’s recent market entry.
- The 2024 model’s actual used price ($58,919) is higher than the estimated $44,376, likely due to low mileage, strong demand for newer models, and the Q4 55 e-tron’s upgraded powertrain, which offers improved range (258 miles vs. 241 miles) and performance (335 horsepower vs. 295 horsepower), as reported by Car and Driver.
- The 2025 model’s used price is nearly identical to its MSRP, reflecting its status as a nearly new vehicle with minimal mileage and high market demand.
Depreciation Trends
The Audi Q4 e-tron exhibits significant depreciation in its early years, with the 2022 model retaining only 47.8% of its value after three years. This steep decline is consistent with luxury vehicles, particularly electric ones, where rapid advancements in battery technology, range, and features diminish the appeal of older models. Newer models, such as the 2024 and 2025 versions, retain over 90% of their value, reflecting their recent release, low mileage, and technological improvements, such as the Q4 55 e-tron’s enhanced powertrain introduced midway through the 2024 model year, as noted by Car and Driver.
Several factors contribute to the Q4 e-tron’s depreciation:
- Technological Advancements: Newer models with improved range, faster charging, and updated features reduce the value of earlier models. For example, the 2024 refresh introduced a more efficient motor and longer range, making older models less competitive.
- Market Dynamics: Fluctuations in EV demand, influenced by fuel prices, government incentives, and charging infrastructure availability, impact resale values, as highlighted by Edmunds.
- Vehicle Condition: Higher mileage or wear accelerates depreciation, though the high retention of 2024 and 2025 models suggests low-mileage vehicles retain more value.
- Brand Competition: Audi faces competition from brands like Tesla, whose Model Y offers a longer range, impacting the Q4 e-tron’s resale value.
Charts and Visuals
The bar chart above compares the MSRP and 2025 used prices for each model year, illustrating the extent of value loss over time. The 2022 and 2023 models show significant depreciation, while the 2024 and 2025 models retain most of their value due to their recent release and technological upgrades.
The line graph above shows the retention percentage versus vehicle age in 2025:
- Age 0 (2025 model): 94.9% retention, reflecting minimal depreciation for nearly new vehicles.
- Age 1 (2024 model): 92.9% retention, indicating a modest value loss in the first year.
- Age 2 (2023 model): 53.7% retention, showing a significant drop due to technological advancements and market dynamics.
- Age 3 (2022 model): 47.8% retention, highlighting substantial depreciation over three years.
Commentary on Retention
The steep drop in retention between the first and second years (from 92.9% to 53.7%) is notable, likely driven by the initial depreciation hit common in luxury EVs and the introduction of improved powertrains in later models. According to iSeeCars, the Q4 e-tron depreciates 69.2% over five years, higher than the average SUV (47%) but typical for luxury electric compact SUVs (69%). This suggests that while the Q4 e-tron’s depreciation is significant, it aligns with its market segment. The high retention for 2024 and 2025 models indicates strong demand for newer vehicles with updated features, such as the Q4 55 e-tron’s improved range and performance.
General Depreciation Schedule
Based on observed data and industry insights, a general depreciation schedule for the Audi Q4 e-tron 50/55 Prestige is proposed:
- Year 1: 30% depreciation (70% retention)
- Year 2: 20% depreciation (56% retention)
- Year 3: 15% depreciation (48% retention)
- Year 4 and beyond: 10–15% depreciation per year
This schedule is derived from fitting the observed retention rates for 2022 and 2023 models and aligns with Kelley Blue Book data indicating a 49% depreciation over two years for the 2023 model. Key factors influencing this schedule include:
- Technological Advancements: Newer models with better range and performance reduce older model values.
- Market Conditions: EV demand fluctuations, influenced by economic factors and incentives, affect resale prices.
- Mileage and Condition: Vehicles with higher mileage or wear depreciate faster, while low-mileage newer models retain more value.
Comparison with Industry Averages
The Q4 e-tron’s depreciation rate is higher than the average for all SUVs but aligns with luxury electric compact SUVs. According to iSeeCars, the Q4 e-tron’s five-year depreciation of 69.2% compares to 47% for all SUVs and 69% for its category. In contrast, some EVs like the Tesla Model 3 depreciate less (42.9% over five years), as noted by CarExpert, due to strong brand loyalty and demand. The Q4 e-tron’s higher depreciation reflects its position in the luxury EV market, where rapid technological advancements and competition from models like the Tesla Model Y and Volvo EX40, which offer longer range, impact resale values.
Practical Implications for Buyers and Owners
For potential buyers, purchasing a used 2022 or 2023 Q4 e-tron offers significant savings, with prices ranging from $28,078 to $34,446, but buyers should consider potential battery degradation, which may reduce range by 1–2% per year, as noted by Edmunds. Owners looking to sell should note that newer models (2024–2025) retain high value, making them attractive for resale if low mileage. However, waiting beyond two years may result in a steeper value drop due to the observed depreciation trends. For those considering a new purchase, the 2025 model’s high retention suggests it may hold value better in the short term, though long-term depreciation will depend on future technological advancements and market conditions.
Strategic Considerations
When deciding whether to buy new or used, consider the following:
- New Purchase: Buying a 2025 Q4 e-tron ensures access to the latest technology and high resale value in the first year, but the initial cost is higher.
- Used Purchase: A 2022 or 2023 model offers substantial savings but may lack the latest features and have a shorter remaining battery warranty (typically 8 years or 100,000 miles).
- Resale Timing: Selling within the first year, especially for 2024 or 2025 models, maximizes resale value, while holding older models longer may lead to further depreciation.
Leasing may also be a viable option for those concerned about depreciation, as it allows access to the latest models without long-term ownership risks. However, lease terms should be carefully evaluated for mileage limits and residual value assumptions.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the Q4 e-tron’s depreciation may continue to be influenced by advancements in EV technology, such as solid-state batteries or improved charging infrastructure, which could further reduce the value of older models. Additionally, changes in government incentives, such as federal tax credits, and fluctuations in fuel prices could impact demand and resale values. Monitoring market trends and competitor offerings, such as Tesla’s Model Y or emerging models from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, will be crucial for predicting future depreciation patterns.
Conclusion
The Audi Q4 e-tron 50/55 Prestige experiences significant depreciation in its first two years, with retention percentages dropping to 47.8–53.7% by years two and three. Newer models (2024 and 2025) retain over 90% of their value due to their recent release and technological upgrades, such as the Q4 55 e-tron’s enhanced powertrain. The proposed depreciation schedule—30% in year one, 20% in year two, and 15% in year three—provides a framework for anticipating future value loss, though actual values may vary based on mileage, condition, and market conditions. The bar chart and line graph above visually represent these trends, offering a clear view of how the Q4 e-tron’s value evolves over time. For buyers and owners, understanding these patterns can guide decisions on purchase timing, resale strategies, and long-term ownership costs in the rapidly evolving EV market. Whether you’re considering a new or used Q4 e-tron, this analysis provides the data needed to make an informed choice.
Key Citations
- TrueCar 2025 Audi Q4 e-tron Review Pricing Trims Photos
- Kelley Blue Book Audi Q4 e-tron Prices Reviews
- Edmunds 2025 Audi Q4 e-tron Prices Reviews Pictures
- Car and Driver 2025 Audi Q4 e-tron Review Pricing Specs
- iSeeCars Audi Q4 e-tron Resale Value Depreciation
- CarExpert Electric Cars Depreciation vs Petrol Diesel Hybrids