We are starting a long-term test of the Audi E-tron GT 2023, and I am genuinely interested in this electric GT car and excited to see how our time together will unfold. I am eager to begin this journey and am not starting with any cynicism or ambivalence.

One positive aspect is that this Audi has already proven to be excellent company. It’s not without flaws – it is quite wide, and the parking sensors are overly sensitive – but it glides through the world like a mechanical panther. It is quiet, sleek, smooth, and incredibly fast with its 472lb ft of torque.

The various aspects of the car, such as the cockpit, steering, and overall aesthetics, are more impressive than Audi’s current offerings in other models. The E-tron GT doesn’t try too hard to impress, unlike the RS7, which makes it easy to warm up to. Even in the bright Tango Red color, which isn’t my preferred choice, the car’s rakish silhouette manages to make it work.

So what exactly is this car? We will delve deeper into its Taycan-shared platform later, but it presents itself as a four-door fastback capable of reaching 152mph while remaining low to the ground. It has air springs (standard on the Vorsprung trim) and a motor on each axle, with the rear motor utilizing a two-speed gearbox. The battery, with a capacity of 93.4kWh, is located under the floor. The whole car weighs 2347kg, which is quite heavy, but it is managed effectively.

With a price tag of £113k, the Audi E-tron GT is undeniably expensive. However, when you consider that BMW is asking £85k for an M3 Comp and a 911 Carrera S costs £110k, it becomes a bit more reasonable. Furthermore, when you take into account that £113k is the price for the fully-equipped Vorsprung model with features like a B&O hi-fi system, head-up display, rear-steering, matrix headlights, Pro sports seats, and acoustic glazing, it seems like a justifiable investment. The base E-tron GT, priced at £85k, offers good value for a cutting-edge and sleek vehicle.

I am quite fond of the Audi E-tron GT. However, I can’t help but wonder how it would perform with a 450bhp inline-five engine longitudinally placed in its sloping nose. My logical side says yes to the idea, and my heart agrees, although not with the same conviction as my head. While it may be heavy and require frequent recharging, there is no denying that this car is authentic. In terms of what it represents and its execution, the E-tron GT is the most thrilling Audi since the rear-wheel-drive R8. Converting it to run on gasoline would undoubtedly diminish its authenticity, though it would likely improve some aspects.