Choosing a driving mode is an option found in pretty much every modern car. This includes EVs like the Audi E-tron.
Driving modes (also called drive modes) balance the powertrain and suspension components, making them more suited to a particular environment or task.
Note that Audi refers to driving modes as ‘drive selects’. When you look through your owner’s manual, it’s this term you should watch out for.
So, Audi E-tron driving modes. How do you select them, and what are your options? Find out in this quick overview.
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How to select a driving mode in the Audi E-tron
You can change the driving mode at any time, while stationary or while moving. However, the new drive select might not kick in until you fully remove your foot from the accelerator.
It’s safest to change it while you’re stopped or parked up. Selecting a driving mode in the Audi E-tron is simple. Follow the instructions below to switch to your desired mode.
- Press the drive select button.
- You’ll find it in the center console, above the selector lever.
- Use the left and right arrow keys to cycle through the driving modes.
Alternatively, you could select a driving mode through the MMI:
- On the MMI touchscreen, select Vehicle.
- Choose Audi drive select.
- Select your desired driving mode.
What Audi E-tron driving modes are available?
The Audi E-tron comes with a wide variety of driving mode options. Although they depend on the specific model and what it includes, you can expect to see the following:
- Auto – Auto is the standard setting for the E-tron. It’s a central balance of all the controls and is suitable for most everyday driving applications.
- Comfort – the Comfort drive select is all about luxury. Audi recommends using it for highway driving and cruising.
- Dynamic – ‘Dynamic’ mode is the E-tron’s sport mode. It’ll make the steering more reactive and the controls more responsive.
- Efficiency – with Efficiency, everything’s about using as little charge as possible. The E-tron will also remind you about your power economy with notifications.
- Allroad – the Allroad setting is designed for on-road use. It raises the air suspension while maintaining a focus on handling.
- Offroad – Offroad mode is for use off the beaten track. It’ll raise the air suspension to the second-highest level, reduce ESC input, and activate hill descent assist.
- Individual – within the Individual driving mode, you can alter specific settings to suit your style. See the section below.
Altering Individual settings within the Audi E-tron driving modes
You can alter three different settings within the Individual drive select. These are as follows:
- Drive – here, you’ll adjust how quickly the power gets to the wheels in relation to your accelerator pedal. The more reactive, the sportier the E-tron will feel, and the faster it’ll speed up.
- Steering – lighter steering is more suitable for highway driving or turning through gentle curves. If you’re in the city or driving through a slalom (for some reason), you’ll want more reactive steering.
- Suspension – stiff suspension means better handling but less comfort. In contrast, relaxed suspension gives a much nicer ride but means the E-tron won’t plant itself on the road so well.
Which Audi E-tron driving mode should I select?
The best driving mode for you depends on your personal circumstances. It’s also related to the routes you most often travel down.
These days, many people might consider the Efficiency drive select. It’ll reduce wear on the car and bring your running costs down.
The Dynamic setting is for those who want to make the most of the E-tron’s impressive acceleration. If you’re all about launch control and the rear spoiler, choose this one.
Use Comfort mode if you regularly drive down highways and freeways. It’s the ultimate feeling of relaxation. If neither of the above appeals to you, stick the E-tron in Auto and leave it. It’ll provide a balanced mode on all counts.
Below is a PDF version of the E-tron’s owner’s manual for your reference.
FAQs
What is the best driving mode for Audi e-tron?
The best driving mode for an Audi e-tron depends on your personal circumstances and the type of routes you typically travel. The article suggests that many people may consider the “Efficiency” drive select mode, as it is designed to use as little charge as possible, reduce wear on the car, and bring down running costs. However, the “Dynamic” mode is recommended for those who want to make the most of the e-tron’s impressive acceleration. “Comfort” mode is ideal for highway driving and cruising. If none of these specific modes appeal to you, you can leave the e-tron in “Auto” mode, which provides a balanced setting suitable for most everyday driving applications.
What are the 4 driving modes for Audi?
The article mentions six driving modes for the Audi e-tron, not just four. These modes are:
- Auto: The standard setting that balances various controls for everyday driving.
- Comfort: A luxury-oriented mode suitable for highway driving and cruising.
- Dynamic: A sporty mode that makes steering more reactive and controls more responsive.
- Efficiency: Focused on using as little charge as possible and providing power economy notifications.
- Allroad: Designed for on-road use, it raises the air suspension while maintaining a focus on handling.
- Offroad: Intended for off-road use, it raises the air suspension to the second-highest level, reduces ESC input, and activates hill descent assist.
What are the Audi drive select modes?
The Audi e-tron offers a range of drive select modes, including:
- Auto
- Comfort
- Dynamic
- Efficiency
- Allroad
- Offroad
Individual: This mode allows you to customize specific settings according to your preferences, including drive responsiveness, steering, and suspension.
What is the best mode to drive in Audi?
The best mode to drive in an Audi depends on your driving preferences and the type of driving you’ll be doing. The article suggests that many people might consider the “Efficiency” mode for everyday driving, as it helps reduce wear on the car and lowers running costs. However, the “Dynamic” mode is recommended if you want a sportier driving experience with impressive acceleration. “Comfort” mode is ideal for relaxed highway driving. If you’re unsure or prefer a balanced mode, you can simply leave the Audi in “Auto” mode, which provides a well-rounded setting for most driving conditions.