audi road trip

Are Audis Good For Road Trips? (Explained)

Audis are regarded as some of the most reliable and comfortable vehicles in the world. The German automaker retains its impressive history across all sectors of the industry.

Table of Contents

With a range of sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs, there’s an Audi to suit almost everyone’s needs. It’s a go-to luxury vehicle manufacturer alongside other well-known competitors.

Models such as the Audi A1 all the way through to the later Audi SQ8 all deliver exceptional quality and versatility.

Check also: best and worst years for Audi A1 .

But the question is, do they perform just as exceptionally for long road trips?

In this article, we’ll be discussing whether Audis are good for long road trips.

How Comfortable Is an Audi For Long-Distance Road Trips?

A comfortable road trip usually means a smooth ride over many miles with plenty of space for luggage. Audi has a large range of models in its portfolio.

Not only do they offer small hatchbacks, but they also provide an extensive selection of SUVs to fit big families.

The smallest Audi is the A1, which offered great luxury in an affordable price range. It has plenty of space in the front seats, but not so much for rear passengers.

For long-distance road trips, the A1 will be fairly comfortable but could’ve done better with the space in the rear seat. Rear seat passengers who are tall will feel a bit cramped.

Tall adults will have their knees brushing up against the front seats. This will be the same for their heads against the roof.

Space is not an issue for the bigger cars in the Audi range, such as the Audi Q7 and Audi Q8.

These bigger SUV models are very reliable. Here we have a good rundown of the good and bad years for the Audi Q8 .

These models are two of the biggest in the portfolio and offer class-leading space, technology, and ergonomics.

With up to 7 people seated, the Q7 is large enough for a comfortable family road trip. It features plenty of headroom and legroom, even for tall adults to stretch out and enjoy a long trip.

All Audis have plenty of cupholders, door bins, and big enough space in the front of the gear lever for your phone. This makes Audis some of the most comfortable cars for road trips.

The latest technological advances in the Audi are evident in the infotainment systems in their lineups, with modern phone connectivity options for seamless integration and multimedia features.

Long road trips are synonymous with great music to make the journey much more enjoyable.

Audis have some of the best stereo systems in the range and offer crisp, clear sound.

Calls are just as smooth and audible through the infotainment system, without having to have the phone in your hand.

How Much Stuff Can You Pack in the Trunk of an Audi?

Another factor to consider when going on a long trip is whether the trunk of your car has sufficient space for all your bags.

After planning your destination and route, a road trip also entails plenty of luggage to pack. A big trunk means you can pack in as much equipment and luggage as you can.

For a small Audi such as the Audi A1, the trunk space is relatively sufficient to pack in about five carry-on suitcases.

The latest Audi A1 sports up to 335 liters of trunk space. It’s not the biggest trunk in the small car segment, but should do.

Bigger models in the Audi range will have plenty more trunk space. This is because SUVs and large sedans are targeted at large families, so it makes sense that the space is enough.

The big Audi Q7 has a seven-seater offering for large families, also offering a big trunk for luggage needs.

Even with all seven seats occupied, the Q7 has plenty of space for long trips.

We have a good list here of the best Audi Q7 years and some to avoid .

With only 5 passengers in the Q7, you can utilize the huge 865 liters of trunk space for equipment and suitcases. The opening to the trunk is also quite big, making large awkward items easy to fit.

Compared to competitors in the large SUV segment such as the Volvo XC90, the Q7 comes up slightly more spacious. If you only have 5 seats occupied, the third row can be folded over to give a massive 2,050 liters in the trunk.

For large families, the Audi Q7 is a no-brainer when thinking of long road trips. The A1, on the other hand, is enough for a small family of four.

You’ll be surprised as to how few problems there are with Audi SUVs in general.

Does It Have GPS?

Planning out a long road trip requires that you know your destination and organize your route efficiently. This is where a good navigation system comes into play.

Audi has excellent modern infotainment systems that can make planning out your route easy and fun. The built-in GPS system can be updated to include the latest maps and traffic information.

In an Audi, the innovative infotainment system is called the myAudi app. This is Audi’s way of making the car’s infotainment system connect seamlessly with your smartphone.

The myAudi app provides real-time information on routes and traffic updates. In the comfort of your home, you can use your smartphone to get all the necessary route information and plan your destination.

Your smartphone is seamlessly connected to the car’s infotainment system. When you get into the car, your destination and any stops you planned are all there on the dashboard.

To get up-to-date maps on your car, you’ll have to download map updates and install them in your Audi. This process is relatively easy and should be completed in about 60 to 90 minutes.

The Audi navigation maps are available for most regions in the world. The updates require that you have the latest firmware for your Audi. Other systems will require paid updates.

The system update can cost up to $300 depending on which Audi model you have.

All Audi models have one version of the navigation system or the other. The infotainment system also allows Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

This phone connection will allow apps like Google Maps to work on the infotainment system.

Related:  9 Great Sedans For Long Drives! (With Pictures)

Can You Drive Cross-Country in an Audi?

Cross-country drives are fun and can be exciting in the comfort of an Audi. Not only are Audis fast, but they can also accommodate really long road trips and even cross-country drives.

A cross-country drive can take up to six days, depending on which route you choose to take. The journey will take longer if you factor in rest stops.

A trip from New York to Los Angeles is on average about 2,750 miles. The drive will be about 40 hours on average with no stops.

If you want to make the trip faster, sportier Audis like the Audi RS3 or the Audi R8 will get you there quicker.

The RS3 is equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine, getting it from zero to sixty in 3.9 seconds.

If you want to take your time and enjoy the trip and scenic routes in a cross-country drive, more comfortable Audis are your best bet.

The Audi A6 is one of the most comfortable cars in the range for a long road trip.

The A6 is comfortable and smooth enough to be a contender for competitors, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series.

With features such as softer ride quality and upmarket sound systems, the A6 range can get you cross-country in comfort. On top of that, it features a dual-screen infotainment system and plenty of cabin room.

So if you want to get cross-country as fast as possible, the sporty and fast Audi RS3 is an ideal choice.

Audis are more than capable of handling a long cross-country road trip. Whether you want to get through it fast or take the scenic route, there’s an Audi model to suit the trip.

Related:  5 Audi Models With The Most Recalls (Check Before Buying!)

How Reliable Is an Audi Over Long Distances?

When it comes to reliability over long distances, there are usually questions about how well-equipped your vehicle is.

The German manufacturer makes their lineup as reliable as possible for long-distance drives. For example, the Audi A4 was named the most reliable car back in 2019.

The A4 is one of the most recognizable Audis out there and the model has been upgraded over many years. This is for good reason, considering how long they last.

If treated well with regular maintenance, the A4 and other Audis can last you up to 200,000 miles.

If you don’t get into accidents and treat the car well, reliability is high in an Audi car. Accidents can decrease reliability and cost you a lot of money in repairs.

Repair costs increase with expensive models and the type of damage.

If traveling over long distances, it is best to undergo a maintenance check before going on the journey. Audis do have common problems just like any other cars out there.

Knowing what problems your Audi model usually experiences can go a long way in preventing them.

Most Common Problems for Audis

• Gearbox issues
• Braking system
• Air conditioning
• Engine issues
• Electrical components

All these issues are relatively easy to diagnose by a certified mechanic or Audi dealership. The A4 has built a reputation for being very dependable and this has only improved with the latest model.

Most problems will usually occur after an accident with a car. On average, Audis can last you up to 13 years if properly taken care of.

How Long Can An Audi Drive With No Breaks?

How long you can drive an Audi without breaks depends on the specific model’s gas tank, the fuel economy and your endurance as a driver.

For example, the 2022 Audi A4 has a 15.3 gallon fuel tank. The car’s EPA mileage estimates are 23/34 mpg for city and highway driving, respectively.

On a full tank, you can drive the car for 351.9 miles without breaks in the city, although we doubt anybody can endure such long driving hours in city conditions.

If you’re driving on the highway, the Audi A4 can take you as far as 520.2 miles on a full tank.

Related:  Audis & Depreciation: Numbers + Examples You Should Know

Does An Audi Offer Good Mileage Over Long Distances?

It’s no secret that Audis are expensive, even though not the most expensive of brands out there. Among some of the most premium vehicles, Audi is one of the leading brands in terms of fuel efficiency.

The Audi A1 Sportback, Audi A3, and Audi A6 are some of the most fuel-efficient models from the German automaker. These models have great fuel economy over long-distance drives.

Check also: best and worst years for Audi A3 .

Even though Audis are regarded as luxury cars, they do tend to have good mileage over long distances.

For example, the 2022 Audi A3 sedan can get you up to 29 mpg for city driving and a good 32 mpg for highway driving. The A3 is one of the most fuel-efficient models that run on gas.

In the SUV range, the 2022 Audi Q7 doesn’t fare so well. It gets an average highway mpg rating of 25 mpg. This is not a big surprise if you look at the size of the Q7 and its big engine.

When driving over long distances, fuel economy is one of the factors that must be considered. The longer the journey, the more fuel the car is going to use.

Audi models all have different fuel efficiency ratings across the range. Smaller vehicles like the A1 are lighter and prove to be best for city driving. Lighter cars are typically fuel efficient and have higher MPG ratings.

Bigger vehicles, on the other hand, will have bigger engines and therefore lower MPG ratings.

The Q7 is quite a big SUV and therefore has increased CO2 emissions. Higher CO2 emissions usually result in lower fuel economy.

A high MPG vehicle not only reduces maintenance costs but also saves you money through fuel savings.

Audis are among the leading brands in fuel savings. The latest Environmental Protection Agency reports show that 32 Audi models are emitting less than 225 grams per mile of CO2.

Real-world MPG ratings are usually different from those specified by the manufacturer. But Audi is closing the gap on this, showing more accurate MPG ratings when compared to real-world statistics.

How Many People Can Comfortably Go on a Road Trip in an Audi?

Regarding seating capacity, the more seats there are, the better. For a long road trip, comfort is one of the highest priorities.

The Audi A3, for example, can seat up to 5 passengers. The front seats offer plenty of space and support for long journeys.

For taller adults, the rear seats are a bit small for the segment. The rear seats can recline and slide is a good feature, but tall adults will struggle.

Legroom is not great for tall adults because they might feel a bit squashed. This is also the case with the headroom in the Audi A3.

The largest Audi in the SUV range, the Q7, has much more room for up to seven seats.

The third-row seats are a tad bit smaller but comfortable enough for up to 5 adults.

In the Q7, you can have heated front seats, which are power-adjustable. For most passengers, the second row has plenty of space compared to the more confined third row.

Long road trips are also comfortable for little ones who need a child seat. The Q7 has 5 LATCH car-seat connectors. Three connectors are available for the second row and only two for the third row.

The LATCH system was given a rating of excellent, which means it’s easy to understand and operate.

With that said, the larger Audi Q7 can comfortably seat up to 5 adults and 2 children. This is great for large families with multiple kids.

The smaller Audis can comfortably accommodate 4 adults on a long trip. Due to limited legroom and headroom, the smaller Audi models will not be as comfortable for tall adults.

What Are the Best Cars for Long Road Trips?

Here are some of the best cars for long road trips:

• Nissan Altima
• Honda Accord
• Toyota RAV4

Click to share...

Intelligent assistant for electric driving: the Audi e-tron route planner

• Assistant facilitates route planning on fully electric models as standard feature
• Focus on customer value: calculation of optimal driving and charging time
• Integration into Audi’s ecosystem: advance route planning via myAudi app

Share MediaInfo

Audi techfocus newsletter #06.

The e-tron route planner is installed on all of Audi’s fully electric e-tron models. As standard equipment and part of the Audi connect services, it offers customers elementary route planning, which can be done before starting a trip, either using the myAudi app or the in-car navigation system. Once on the road, drivers can rely on always traveling the fastest of all possible routes, supported by the system ideally planning the required charging stops – whenever the destination is located outside of the car’s range. Using new algorithms, the extended e-tron route planner is geared to more effectively taking the unique characteristics of electric driving into account. Daily data updates and individual routes enhance everyday usability.

What are the capabilities of the Audi e-tron route planner?

On the battery-electric models, the Audi e-tron route planner extends the previously known navigation functions of the Audi MMI (Multi Media Interface) by the specific needs of e-car drivers. In addition, it assists them in optimally handling the requirements of electric mobility especially when traveling medium and longer distances. The e-tron route planner calculates the fastest route, considers traffic and road data, includes the driver’s driving style, calculates the duration of the charging stops and incorporates them in planning the total travel time. Users receive important information such as the charging capacity or charging connections and plug types for the relevant charging stations. Moreover, the system indicates dynamic availability, for instance, whether or not charging stations are vacant or occupied, always with a bias for moving forward quickly. For example, two short charging processes with high charging capacity may yield time-related advantages over one long stop with low charging capacity. Alternative routes with better charging infrastructure are considered in the calculation of the optimal total travel time as well. The Audi e-tron route planner gives preference to the powerful HPC charging stations (HPC = High Power Charging). They are able to charge the high-voltage battery, for instance in the Audi e-tron Sportback 55 quattro , with up to 150 kW direct current (DC). Under ideal conditions, charging from 5 to 80 percent of the battery’s capacity takes only around half an hour. A push notification on the myAudi app indicates to the driver when the desired state of charge (SoC) has been achieved and the trip can be continued.

What makes the Audi e-tron route planner so valuable?

Audi has been installing in its e-tron models the e-tron route planner as standard equipment from day one. It provides the four rings with a competitive advantage because this important assistant is unrivaled in this form. The service is fully integrated in the brand’s ecosystem. The route planner can be used in the car and for pre-planning purposes by means of the myAudi App. In this way, planning a trip with the Audi e-tron can conveniently start on a mobile device at home and be sent to the car by wireless transmission. Daily charging station data updates are available in both the myAudi app and the in-car Audi MMI. The combination of the Audi e-tron route planner, the individual search for the most suitable charging stations, display of their locations and charted range indication covering an area surrounding the driver’s own location makes this total package so practical and valuable.

What technology does the Audi e-tron route planner use?

The Audi e-tron route planner is a new software development that was initially integrated in the Modular Infotainment Matrix of the MIB 2+ generation. Since 2020, the third generation of the Modular Infotainment Matrix (MIB 3) with ten times higher computing power has been offering e-tron route planner functions that have been enhanced once again. A new algorithm improves everyday usability of the extended route planner: daily data updates of potential charging stations and a portfolio of alternative routes that have been optimized for the requirements of e-cars assist drivers even more effectively. Among other things, the daily data updates include detailed information such as payment and authentication opportunities, accurate station operator data and potential access restrictions.

How does the driver affect the e-tron route planner?

While calculating the route, the system considers the battery’s state of charge. Before starting a trip, the driver can set a different SoC in the app in order to use the SoC anticipated at the time of departure for predicting the route. The Audi e-tron route planner includes the personal driving style based on previous trips. If the driving style changes, the system will adjust its calculation accordingly. The choice of charging opportunities affects the route planner as well: if the driver uses the e-tron Charging Service, the system can give preference to relevant charging stations. The list of charging stations is constantly updated online and indicates the latest update. At the end of a trip, the Last Mile Navigation of the myAudi App will calculate the remaining distance before the final destination is reached. All previously known features and functions of the navigation system have been fully retained: alternative routes, avoidance of road types such as freeways or backroads, input of additional destinations and consideration of toll roads in relevant countries.

In which markets can the Audi e-tron route planner be used?

The Audi e-tron route planner is available in all of Audi’s sales regions. In Europe, the e-tron route planner benefits from a well-established network of Audi’s proprietary e-tron Charging Service currently comprising about 180,000 public charging stations. A particularly convenient aspect of the service makes it possible for customers to travel in 26 European countries using just one charging card and paying the same country-wide prices.

What future prospects does the Audi e-tron route planner open up?

With the e-tron route planner, Audi is already providing a package today that eliminates many uncertainties about electric driving and particularly the aspect of charging. Going forward, the company is planning to tailor the service even more closely to individual user needs and preferences. Due to the integration of the route planner in Audi’s ecosystem, users benefit from a constant evolution of the services relating to electric driving on various levels.

More information

• Technology Lexicon: Infotainment
• Technology Lexicon: Charging technologies
• Technology: Electric Mobility
• Technology: Audi connect
• Models: Audi e-tron

Road Tripping in a 2021 Audi RS 6 Avant

One silver lining in the COVID-19 pandemic is more opportunities to discover our beautiful country. This summer, I decided to explore some of the northern parts of Quebec through La Route des Baleines (Whale Route), which stretches along the St. Lawrence River from Tadoussac to Kegaska.

My main destination was Sept-Iles, a town of 28,534 people. My road trip car? A brand new 2021 Audi RS 6 Avant , a high-performance luxury wagon with 590 horsepower.  

• Also: 2022 Audi RS 3 Coming to Canada With Drift Mode
• Also: 2021 Audi RS 6 Avant Has a Price to Match its Madness

Once a forbidden fruit in North America, the RS 6 Avant had many people on this side of the Atlantic jumping with joy when it finally arrived last year. A number of enthusiastic customers even ordered one without having the opportunity to see it or take a test drive first. Of course, they knew (nearly) everything about the car from European reviews and early impressions by Canadian journalists including yours truly (we spent some time behind the wheel in Malibu, California back in November 2019).

The Most Badass Wagon

The strikingly good-looking 2021 Audi RS 6 Avant is a lot more assertive and expressive than its predecessors. In fact, it’s the most badass wagon on the market right now, with razor-sharp styling and widebody proportions that the Mercedes-AMG E 63 S Wagon or Porsche Panamera Turbo S Sport Turismo can’t match.

It’s an exceptional vehicle to say the least, and pricing reflects that. The RS 6 Avant starts at $120,400 in Canada, while my generously equipped tester for this road trip had a tag of $134,500.

Sporty Yet Comfortable

Featuring heated/cooled sport seats with a massage function, dual-zone climate control and rear sunshades, the 2021 Audi RS 6 Avant is just as comfortable as any high-end luxury sedan. The RS Mode button on the flat-bottom, Alcantara-trimmed steering wheel is your shortcut for two customizable drive modes. You can program RS1 for sportier handling on wide-open country roads (or the track!) and RS2 for the smoothest possible ride. The car essentially transforms from Dr. Jekyll to Mr. Hyde at the push of a button.

That split personality proved to be a blessing during my road trip along the St. Lawrence River. The RS 6 Avant sliced every bit of Route 138 where I could let it rip, and then gently devoured long stretches of pavement that called for relaxed driving. With a twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 590 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque, it made extremely short work of passing manoeuvres. Full-throttle acceleration is so strong and linear that I was able to overtake several vehicles at once on two-lane sections.

When equipped with the Dynamic Package, the RS 6 Avant boasts four-wheel steering enabling the rear wheels to turn a few degrees in the same direction as the front wheels to maximize high-speed stability including during quick lane changes. Whenever I got a little too carried away, I could always count on the 420-mm front and 370-mm rear steel disc brakes to promptly brush off speed.

My Biggest Fear

The tester’s air suspension with electronically controlled dampers could be configured using the Audi Drive Select system. In Comfort mode, it delivered a pleasant ride even on the most damaged stretches of pavement along the way, although I was constantly monitoring the road to avoid the biggest potholes and cracks. I was terrified at the idea of puncturing one of the 185/30ZR22 Pirelli P Zero tires or warping any of the magnificent 22-inch alloy wheels. Thank God that didn’t happen! I’m not sure I could have found replacement units in this part of Quebec.

My road trip also revealed just how versatile and practical the Audi RS 6 Avant can be. Cargo capacity expands from 565 to 1,680 litres when you fold the rear seats down, and I particularly appreciated the safety net that deploys from a rear crossbar and attaches to the headliner to protect passengers in the event of a collision. As for fuel consumption, the car averaged 11.5 L/100 km over a total of more than 2,500 kilometres—not bad considering how often I tapped into its supreme performance potential.

Don't miss any updates. Sign up for our newsletter now!

2021 Audi RS6 Avant quick drive review: Take me to the mountain

Audi's RS6 Avant isn't everyone's cup of tea, but those who can afford the brew will find it very sweet indeed.

Ready for a road trip like no other.

I feel like I could write a doctoral thesis on how unfortunate it is that Americans can't see past 1980s preconceptions and appreciate the wonder that is the modern wagon. If you're taking the time to read this, I figure you're already among the faithful. However, if you're merely curious, I encourage you to read on and join me in this celebration of one of the most sublime cars on the road today, the Audi RS6 Avant . Specifically, I want to talk about how it is a wonderful option for all-weather exhilaration.

Audi calls it an Avant in an effort of evocative branding, but this is without a doubt a wagon. It has too many windows on the side to be a hatchback and lacks the crudely unpainted, pseudo-rugged fender flares that many manufacturers are slapping on their long-roofed options. It's a wagon, and a sporty one at that, among the best we've been blessed with here in the US of A.

2021 Audi RS6 Avant is the ultimate practical performer

Audi's RS6 puts down 591 horsepower through all four wheels -- 22-inch wheels at that, wrapped in Continental Wintercontact tires. At least, my car was so equipped for the winter season when I did my testing, but for more seasonable driving I'd recommend sticking with the summer fitment of Pirelli P-Zero rubber.

Power comes from a 4.0-liter V8, turbocharged of course, and looking absolutely menacing nestled up front of this wagon and flanked by a tangle of exposed, race-ready pipes and fittings. I've seen supercars with less evocative engine bays than this. But then, this is a supercar. Or it's as quick as one, anyway.

The sprint to 60 mph takes a mere 3.6 seconds in the RS6. It'll go on up to a limited 155 mph should you be lucky enough to have a place where this thing can properly stretch its legs. I'd recommend a race track or an autobahn, because while the RS6 does quite well dicing its way through twisty roads, get deep in the throttle and you realize how much this thing just wants to run and run. Given its head it'll have you hurtling forward at triple-digit speeds in less time than it'll take the judge to bang the gavel at your eventual trial, should you be foolish enough to really push this thing on a public road.

Though the silhouette is not in line with typical American performance sensibilities, every detail within those lines screams aggression. Seriously, look at the intakes on that nose and all the detailing around the exhaust. This car looks mean enough to make a Wrangler with one of those squinty aftermarket grilles look pouty. But despite that, the overall shape is understated. Most on the road won't give the RS6 more than a casual glance.

Sophisticated, but not boring.

That aggro yet sophisticated vibe continues on the interior, where dry carbon abounds, looking and feeling far racier than the polished, resin-dipped stuff slapped around on so many modern exotics. Red contrast stitching highlights comfortable, supportive seats in a less ostentatious way than brightly colored seat belts. Audi's Virtual Cockpit likewise has some subtly sporty extensions, chock full of specific gauges to monitor everything from differential temperatures to tire pressures. It's all ideal for a track day if you're into that sort of thing, but of course this car is more about that long haul to the track.

On the way you'll enjoy a superb Bang & Olufsen sound system that's perhaps a little too bass heavy, but would you expect anything else? There's plenty of headroom, shoulder room and every other kind of room. With 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, the RS6 can haul much more than ass.

And it'll be comfortable while doing so, too. My testing took place toward the end of a lackluster Northeastern winter that disappointed not only in terms of its intensity (too mild) but its longevity. Though the last of the good snow was sliding off the mountain when I made a run up to Vermont, the roads were dry but heavily broken. Despite this and the Audi's sinister 22-inch wheels, the ride quality was quite impressive. I'm sure the softer sidewalls of the winter tires helped that somewhat, but really I can't think of a reason why I wouldn't want to cover big miles in this big wagon. Well, maybe the 20 mpg I scored during my testing, but even that's not so bad considering you get almost twice the horsepower of an A6 Allroad , itself only rated for 20 mpg in the city.

The RS6 Avant was always surefooted despite that awful asphalt still coated with salt and sand and other muck, but when things did finally break loose they tended to do so in a big, eye-opening way. A lot of sports cars, even those with all-wheel drive, will give a little wiggle or hop to warn you that you're getting close to the edge. The RS6 is less progressive, making driving it hard on narrow lanes an intimidating yet thrilling experience.

My run was, predictably, up to a ski resort. I opted to slap my snowboard on the roof using a SeaSucker mount rather than have it in the cabin with me. Yes, there is plenty of room in there to haul my board and gear, but that didn't mean I wanted it sliding around through every turn. So I threw it on the roof, and the panoramic glass meant I could quickly and easily ensure that it stayed there even as I was testing the extents of the Virtual Cockpit's G-meter. 

At the mountain, I raised the suspension before pulling into the craggy lot and idled into a parking spot. I wasn't met by a gaggle of enthusiastic kids like I was when I pulled in with a yellow Porsche 911 Turbo , nor did I get the wide-eyed reaction I got when I earlier cut through the snow in a similarly hued Acura NSX . I don't think this Audi, despite its luscious coating of red, turned a single head.

And you know what? That's fine. Perfect, even. Anyone lucky enough to buy an Audi RS6 Avant isn't doing it for the looks or the comments or the approval of randos on the side of the road. They're doing it because this is an unabashed celebration of engineering, a near-perfect intersection of performance and practicality. Yes, I wish more people appreciated that sort of thing here in America, but in some ways those decades-old, wagon-shaped misconceptions just make this machine all the more special.

2019 Audi E-tron road-trip review: Wait, range ratings aren’t everything?

Not every electric-car first-drive event urges us to climb a mountain to get a good idea of driving range.

Actually make that no other automaker, ever. But that’s what Audi had us do with its 2019 E-tron electric SUV: drive it on a prescribed route that took us nearly 195 miles from Yountville, California (102 feet elevation) and over 7,427-foot Echo Summit along U.S. Highway 50.

The strategy to take the demanding route stems from a hard reality: Audi has a lot to prove with its E-tron.

Earlier this spring, its EPA range ratings were released at just 204 miles—underwhelming considering the E-tron has a big 95-kwh battery pack. Its EPA-rated efficiency stands at just 74 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) combined, which equates to about 46 kwh per 100 miles, or 2.2 miles per kwh.

2019 Audi E-tron - first drive report - Calirornia, May 2019

A first drive in December gave us enough of a sample of the E-tron to recognize that it’s the spacious, versatile, rugged pick among other electric crossovers, and better for families than the Model X (or, we can now say, than the upcoming 2020 Mercedes-Benz EQC ). What we hadn’t done is sample how far the E-tron goes in real-world driving conditions, and whether it charges as quickly as claimed.

Now we have a good idea of that.

With this road trip, Audi wanted to prove that in real-world conditions its driving range is—to borrow a term from the Rolls-Royce and Bentley lexicon—sufficient.

Not just going the distance, going for speed

But there’s more to it, and charging is the flip side. Manufacturers commonly note that electric-vehicle owners charge at home 80 to 90 percent of the time. While lower-power Level 2 chargers may work most other times, at work or at overnight destinations, the real litmus test for an EV comes in the fringe cases—when you’re traveling long-distance and need to get charged-up in about the time it takes to grab lunch.

To that end, Audi also aimed to demonstrate what differentiates the E-tron from every other currently available electric vehicle on the market (including those from Tesla): On speedy new 150-kw CCS DC (Combo) fast-charging equipment, the E-tron can charge up to 80 percent charge in about 30 minutes, or fully charge in about 45 minutes.

Although Audi's claimed 52 miles of range regained in 10 minutes still doesn't keep up with Tesla's current vehicles—or with Tesla's claims of up to 75 miles in five minutes with upcoming V3 hardware—Audi's argument is this: You probably only need to stop once on the way somewhere for the weekend, and their system lets you easily leave a charging stop with a full charge.

Vehicle charge curve - Audi e-tron on Electrify America 150-kw hardware - May 2019

What happens here [provided to us via Audi and EA] between 80 and 100 percent is a boon to usability: Audi has no qualms with you fast-charging the E-tron up to 100 percent, and it’s actually engineered it to play well with the idea that you might want to top off quickly.

After plugging in at a 150-kw Electrify America station that had just opened two weeks before our visit (part of Electrify America’s Cycle 1 plan , required by the VW diesel settlement), the E-tron charged exactly as claimed, bringing our 59-percent charge up to 99 percent in less than 30 minutes. As our charge session surged past 80 and 85 percent, and even as it passed 97 and 98 percent, there was no big slowdown, no excruciatingly long wait. It was still charging at nearly 50 kw at 99 percent.

That full charge matters because at least at 150 kw and up, there won’t be for some time the fast-charging redundancy in locations that Tesla owners have enjoyed on road trips. Although E-tron drivers can use legacy 50-kw fast-charging stations, it’s a big pack, at an official 95 kwh, so a charge to 80 percent takes more like 90 minutes.

150-kw Electrify America charger - The Cannery, Sacramento CA

It’ll get better eventually. EA’s Cycle 1 includes more than 2,000 fast chargers at 484 sites. Cycle 2, which starts this summer , and targets completion by December 2021, will add more highway stations, and other networks like EVgo are building out additional 150- and 350-kw fast chargers.

Keeping it cozy

Audi has a different approach to how it treats its battery pack, though, and it’s part-and-parcel to making the state of charge predictable. It only uses 88 percent (83.6 kwh) of the 95-kwh total cell capacity in its pack, in the interest of a long life, more consistent range performance, and better thermal management.

Audi’s been preaching that thermal management tack all along. Coolant is circulated in a thin sandwich layer beneath the modules, where it can drain away in an extreme crash (helping prevent further damage). Through pumps, valving, and temperature monitoring (all sealed for life and maintenance-free) the pack’s kept in its sweet spot to be ready for DC fast charging at peak- or near-peak charging rates—which gives it a potential advantage over the upcoming Mercedes-Benz EQC or even updated Tesla vehicles.

Even though charging was Audi’s secret-sauce argument for making the E-tron work well for road trips, it turned out its real-world range isn’t too shabby. The route took us from Yountville, California, via I-80 and SR-128, to Sacramento, where we recharged to 99 percent. We then traveled to South Lake Tahoe, via a side loop to Emerald Bay, on Lake Tahoe. After going 119 miles from Sacramento up, up, up to South Lake Tahoe, we had an indicated 51 miles remaining, according to the trip computer.

2019 Audi E-tron

The total trip distance (with the charge along the way) was an indicated 193.5 miles, with an average efficiency of 2.0 miles per kwh, according to the vehicle’s trip computer. In that steep-climb use, this suggests the E-tron return a range of about 167 miles even here. Our driving style was far from gentle and eco-minded; we used the climate control the whole way, and we tapped into the E-tron’s full-throttle Boost Mode—activated by shifting into “S” then pressing the accelerator past its detent—at least a couple of times.

After a charge to 75 percent, Audi drove our car another approximately 55 miles, to Reno, Nevada (elevation 4,506) before crunching its final numbers, for a total trip distance of 248 miles, and said given the efficiency that our vehicle returned (2.21 miles per kwh by then), it had a calculated range estimate of 184 miles—just 20 miles below the official EPA range.

That’s not a bad showing at all considering the full route included 16,759 feet of ascent and 12,441 feet of descent.

The outside temperatures during our drive ranged from 57 to 75 degrees—pretty close to the best zone for today’s automotive lithium-ion cells, so the thermal systems likely weren’t taxed.

Road-tripping in the E-tron

How was the road trip itself, when we weren’t hyper-focused on the trip computer? Serene as a passenger, comfortably engaging as a driver.

The next morning we moved to the front seats and enjoyed the multicontour seats with great thigh and back support. Fresh off a drive of the Mercedes-Benz EQC the previous week, we found the E-tron’s seating position to be a little more carlike, with a ride that isn’t as pillowy as the EQC but had a slightly sportier, more vivid feel on the road. This was also our first time experiencing the E-tron with normal side mirrors, which add depth perception that the high-tech substitute lacked.

We aimed to keep up with traffic and not baby this electric SUV; but having already brought the E-tron up to about 100 mph on pavement and off-roaded in the sand on an earlier first drive of the E-tron , we didn’t go above a peak of about 77 mph on the freeway. Based on instantaneous readouts it looks like the E-tron reaches an efficiency cliff just past 70 mph— we kept closer to that number for most of the trip.

The E-tron comes with a reskinned version of Audi’s digital instrument cluster, with two primary layouts that closely echo what it offers in its gasoline models. Audi aims to keep you from fretting over each percentage of battery capacity, but you can access it via the center screen.

Just a few interface choices seemed a little out of place. The fingertip shifter falls into the gimmicky bin, and the two touchscreens of Audi’s MMI Touch Response infotainment system (10.1-inch up top and 8.6-inch below) require you to take your eyes off the road for too long, especially for climate control functions on the lower screen. The lack of idle creep (when you lift your foot from the brake, for instance) is an odd omission in a vehicle that’s otherwise intended to mimic the behavior of Audi’s gasoline vehicles.

Many modes—or not

Like any good German vehicle, the E-tron offers modes—lots of modes. But it doesn’t require as much familiarization with the interface as with some other EVs—and that’s partly representative of how Audi has achieved its goal of making this vehicle drive just like any other Audi. The Drive Select button at the center of the dash can access Auto, Comfort, Efficiency, Individual, Offroad, and Allroad modes, varying the air-spring suspension by 3.0 inches in all; and there are separate toggles for Comfortable, Balanced, and Dynamic modes for the steering and ride.

Outside a complex and sometimes-confounding Automatic mode for brake regeneration, three levels of regen tap into a maximum of 0.18g through the paddles, but you can get up to 0.3g when you step on the brake pedal—operating a system that’s unique among EVs in that it won’t activate the brake pads until you need more than that brake force.

Our test E-tron cost $87,695, including the $995 destination fee, and was one of the 999 First Edition versions that include gray metallic paint, a black leather interior, a night vision system, bright orange brake calipers, and 21-inch wheels. The starting price of the E-tron is $75,795, not counting its eligibility for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.

After a couple of days with the E-tron, we have a much better idea how it compares to the Tesla Model X and others—and more confidence in it as a “no surprises” pick. By focusing where it counts, Audi is helping make sure your road trip keeps its cool—just like the E-tron’s battery pack.

Audi supplied travel, accommodation, and some meals to Internet Brands Automotive in order to facilitate this report. Also, some of the key claims in this piece rest on data supplied by Audi and not verified through our own independent means.

Contribute:

Additional resources.

How it Works:

• 1 Select your vehicle
• 2 Provide your contact information
• 3 Choose dealers to contact you

People who read this, also read:

• First drive review: 2020 Mercedes-Benz EQC electric crossover charges ahead, luxury first
• 2019 Kia Niro EV: first drive of 239-mile electric crossover
• 2019 Audi e-tron first drive: Redrawing the electric-vehicle boundaries
• VW's Electrify America submits electric-car charging plan to EPA, CARB: now what?

Share This Article:

Connect with the editor:.

Follow Us Today:

Green car reports newsletter.

Sign up to get the latest green car and environmental news, delivered to your inbox daily!

I agree to receive emails from Green Car Reports. I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy.

There's still no end date for internal combustion and the automaker's CEO said it will stay flexible on powertrains "well into the 2030s."

The issue relates to hybrid-system software, but it requires a trip back to the dealership.

EV sales are up but market share is down. The Kia EV6 shows off a facelift and more range. And BYD drops a Shark of a plug-in hybrid pickup south of the border. This and more, here at Green Car Reports. The same morning the Biden administration hiked tariffs vs. Chinese EVs in an effort to keep...

Modest Tesla gains weren't enough to offset the lack of affordable EVs or a sagging luxury market.

With the introduction of an 84-kwh long-range pack, the EV6 might stretch its range to the vicinity of 330 miles or more.

Just after the Biden tariff hikes announced Tuesday, BYD revealed a truck that might rival the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger.

The Biden administration hikes tariffs on various goods from China, and it goes beyond just EVs and batteries. Kia refreshes its three-row hybrid SUV. And Subaru is looking to Toyota for more of its EVs. This and more, here at Green Car Reports. In a first drive of Mercedes' electric G-wagen, we found it to be a better, more precise off-roader than the gasoline model—outshining the combustion versions even before the EV's party-trick zenith called G-Turn. Subaru is bringing back the Crosstrek Hybrid, according to a report, and it will likely arrive soon after the upcoming 2026 Subaru...

Sweeping tariff hikes apply to Chinese EVs, batteries, steel, and more—and they'll change the auto market as a whole.

Three of the four EVs that Subaru has confirmed as on the way by the end of 2028 might come from Toyota or via collaborations with Toyota.

For 2025, the Sorento Hybrid receives the same facelift non-hybrid Sorento models got for the 2024 model year, highlighted by a more prominent grille.

With four motors and 116 kwh of battery, the G 580 electric SUV muscles in on Rivian and Hummer territory.

The Tesla Supercharger network is set to grow, even though the EV maker fired most of the people making its expansion possible. Vinfast debuts a new Sony entertainment interface. And VW gets a little more specific about how its ID.Buzz vans will be sold in the U.S.—but there’s still no...

• Never Miss a Green Car Reports Story I agree to receive emails from Green Car Reports. I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy. subscribe today

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

Road trip planner

Starting City

Destination City

Or switch to flying

Planning a road trip?

Get advice from people who have done the same trip.

The Trippy road trip planner automatically calculates the optimal itinerary including stops recommended by Trippy members, favorite restaurants and hotels, local attractions and things to do based on what people who live in the area have suggested, and more.

Once you have a quick trip planned, you can customize every detail, adding or removing stops, or changing what time you leave in the morning or how long you stay at each stop. Then you can save your custom trip and share it with friends and family.

Let us know if you have requests for more features you'd like to see in the trip planner!

Here Are 7 Unique Day Trips In Idaho That Are An Absolute Must-Do

Super-rad musician, scholar, photographer, and traveler. The Mountain West and larger PNW = home, but can be found wherever there's adventure.

More by this Author

While extended road trips over weekends are always an adventure, sometimes a long excursion simply isn’t possible. Instead, a quick day trip or outing with the family is your destiny. So instead of obsessively planning, forget about those other complicated vacations and hit the road to enjoy these quick, easy, and inexpensive day trips from nearly every major city. Or, mini-vacays, if you will. If you’ve ever Googled “road trips near me in Idaho”, today’s your lucky day!

Related Stories

13 Unforgettable Road Trips To Take In Idaho Before You Die

One Of The Most Unique Towns In America, Salmon Is Perfect For A Day Trip In Idaho

This Creepy Day Trip Through The Spookiest Places In Idaho Is Perfect For Fall

Do you want to make your day trip last even longer? Take this historic road trip or check out this unique backcountry drive . Have any ideas for more ultimate road trips in Idaho? Tell us about them in the comments!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more Idaho in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Idaho!

Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!

An error occured.

More to Explore

Road trips in idaho near me.

What are some of the best road trips in Idaho I can take?  

You know, Idaho gets a lot of flak. People refer to it as a “flyover” state, which implies that it’s boring -- and that notion couldn’t be further from the truth. There’s plenty to do – especially if you’re a lover of the open road like we are. Basically, if you can dream it, you can probably drive it. You can spend time traveling the Magruder Corridor, which is a beautiful, scenic drive you’ll never forget. You can drive the famous “road to nowhere” or make a whole thing out of visiting the most haunted places in the state. We also suggest making a whole trip out of Idaho’s spectacular waterfalls. If you’d like more inspiration for the best road trips in Idaho,  take a peek at this list .   

Where are the must-visit places in Idaho?   

There are several places that come to mind as definitive, iconic “must-do” activities. For instance, it’s imperative that you visit the incredible Shoshone Falls as soon as you can (if you haven’t already). Explore a dormant volcano at Craters of the Moon National Monument, where you’ll have an out-of-this-world fun experience. You won’t believe the surreal beauty on display at Sawtooth National Recreation Area, and Twin Falls is a wonderful place to come to on a hot summer day. Lake Coeur d'Alene, in northern Idaho, is also a must-see – and don’t forget to bring a camera! These locations are all ridiculously photogenic, and we’re sure you’ll fall in love with them as quickly as we did.   

Where can I find unique attractions in Idaho?  

Believe it or not, Idaho is a state with plenty of unique and otherwise oddball attractions to check out in your spare time. You can explore any number of the interesting (and a bit eerie) ghost towns all over the state, like Custer ghost town, near Stanley, and Burke ghost town, near Wallace. It wouldn’t be Idaho without a museum dedicated entirely to the potato, and Blackfoot, Idaho, has that taken care of. You can also sleep in a giant potato in Boise. In Arco, Idaho, you’ll find the world’s first-ever nuclear power plant. And did you know the center of the universe is a manhole in Wallace? Well, at least they think so...

Related Articles

• This Small Town In Idaho Is The Perfect Day Trip And Many Idahoans Don't Even Know It Exists
• The Tiny Historic Town In Idaho That's The Perfect Day Trip Destination
• The Unique Day Trip To Silver City In Idaho Is A Must-Do
• Visit Lindsay Creek Vineyards For The Most Flavorful Day Trip In Idaho
• Coeur d'Alene Old Mission State Park In Idaho Is A Historic Landmark That's Perfect For A Day Trip
• Both A Garden Center And A Petting Zoo, McKee's In Idaho Is An Underrated Day Trip Destination
• Plan A Day Trip To Heart Of The Monster, A Historic Site In Idaho That's Also Downright Beautiful
• Take The Idaho Donut Trail For A Delightfully Delicious Day Trip

Explore Idaho

Featured addresses.

From saving on gas to driving with kids, here's your ultimate road trip planner

"Easy Travel” is a 10-part series focusing on how to reduce bumps during vacations, anticipate roadblocks and be ready when things aren’t going your way. If you'd like to contribute to our future reporting and share your experience as a source, you can click here to fill out this quick form .

Ina Daly has spent most of her life on the road.

“My dad was a truck driver and that led me to becoming a truck driver,” she said. “What we do in a day, on a daily job would be like a long road trip to most people.”

With nearly 40 years of driving for freight transportation services provider XPO and numerous industry accolades under her belt, including grand champion at this year’s Arizona Truck Driving Championship , Daly is a pro. She’s also a mom and a grandmother who’s happy to share her experiences to make everyone’s road trips better.

“Some of the things I'm telling you are what we truckers tell our family members,” she said. “I've had a lot of accomplishments in my career and going to the National Truck Driving Championships (this month) is a reward, but the bigger reward is being able to share some things … that have the potential to save lives.”

What to do before a long drive

“Make sure that your vehicle’s road trip ready,” Daly said. ”Really pay close attention to your tires, your coolant, your fan belt.”

She notes tire dealers often offer free inspections to ensure tires are properly inflated and undamaged.

AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz advises getting the whole car serviced before hitting the road.

“If you're a car person and you can, do that yourself at home, by all means,” she said. Otherwise, she recommends getting the oil changed and battery and tires checked professionally. 

To save time and avoid stress, Diaz also suggests filling up on gas the night before leaving and making hotel reservations well in advance, noting that many hotels allow cancellations without penalty up until the day beforehand. 

What do you need before a road trip?

It’s always good to keep an emergency kit with supplies like first aid, a flashlight and extra batteries, and basic tools in the vehicle.

“You want to make sure that if you do have a tire issue, you have the proper tools and jacks in your vehicle to be able to change it,” Daly said. She said warning signals like reflective triangles can also warn other drivers to steer clear in the event of a breakdown.

For road trips, both she and Diaz recommend shelf-stable snacks like protein bars that won’t melt and plenty of water. “Don't think that a bottle or two for everybody is enough,” Daly said. “You've got to have, you know, five or six bottles for everyone.” 

Diaz also recommends wet wipes, blankets during the winter, and any time-sensitive medication or pet food that might be needed in the event of an extended delay.

“These things ideally wouldn't take up too much room in your trunk but they're just good to have in case of an emergency,” Diaz said. “Just think, ‘If I were stuck for a long time, what would keep me comfortable until I was able to (get) help?’”  

A printed map and a general sense of the route can also help in case there GPS hiccups or a phone dies.  AAA’s free TripTik planner can help travelers plot their trips in advance and find rest stops, lodging, food and gas along the way. And its free Gas Cost Calculator can help locate the cheapest average gas prices for drivers when it’s time to refuel.

'Get out there': This mom is using a never-ending road trip to inspire Black family travel

What I should know before a road trip?

“Everything can be a distraction in the car – the radio, the kids, etc. But the phone is a big one,” Daly advised. “When you’re driving, that thing should not ever be in your hand.”

More than 3,500 people were killed on U.S. roads in 2021 because of distracted driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration . 

Daly also recommends watching out for distracted drivers.

“You can tell a distracted driver by their fluctuating speed,” she warned. “They're drifting in their lane. Their head is looking down instead of focusing on the road. You want to give those people a wide berth.”

How long will a road trip take?

Road trips always take longer than expected because of traffic, construction and other things that arise en route.

Diaz says to expect at least an hour longer than whatever the GPS predicts. Daly recommends leaving at least two hours early.

“You don't want that stressful drive,” Daly said. “You’re hurrying. That lends to bad driving behaviors like tailgating and speeding, which leads to accidents. Don’t put yourself in that situation.”

How many hours a day should you drive on a road trip?

“It just varies so much from person to person, how long they’re comfortable driving,” Diaz said. “We want to err on the side of safety. We want people to be safe on the roads and drive the speed limit and not rush it, but everybody's different.”

Switching out drivers can lighten the load, but no matter who is driving, Daly said, “If you're starting to feel a little, less attentive, maybe a little fatigued, it’s time to take a break.”

What time is best to drive?

“We always recommend, especially during the holidays, leave early in the morning,” Diaz said. “The later you leave in the day, the worse it's going to be because a lot of times during the week … you're going to mix with those commuters on the road.”

“Some people enjoy night driving,” she added. “Once you get to like 8 p.m., 9 p.m. traffic comes down a lot.” 

However, she noted drivers who leave in the evening should watch out for fatigue and plan to drive less than if they started fresh in the morning.

How do you take a good road trip with kids? 

When possible, Daly recommends having a designated passenger to help with kids so the driver can focus on the road.  

Another important thing is to keep seatbelts on the whole way.

“Kids have a tendency to take those off,” Daly said. “Make sure they stay buckled up. I've seen some horrible things out there.”

'I just want to see more of us': The importance of seeing people like you while traveling

What do kids need on a road trip?

Entertainment helps pass the time, but it doesn’t have to be digital. There are all sorts of screen-free road trip games . 

Diaz recommends printing a map or list of sites or cities for kids to watch for along the way.

“You know, yell it out or mark it on your sheet,” she said. “Have some crayons in the car with them so they're following along on the trip, and they feel like they're part of it.”

“Point out historical landmarks and scenery; enjoy nature,” Daly echoed. “That's one of the things that we truck drivers love about our jobs is we get to see the country and nature.”

Stop at points of interest every few hours or simply for everyone to stretch their legs.

And for those times when kids are on screens, make sure to pack car chargers.

What is the best way to save gas?

Don’t speed. 

“Fuel economy peaks at around 50 miles per hour on most cars, and then it drops off as the speeds increase,” Diaz said. “You think, ‘OK, if I just go 70, I'm going to get there faster, and it'll be better,’ but essentially, you're just wasting gas at that point." Fuel economy can be increased by as much as 15% by reducing highway speeds by 5 to 10 miles per hour, she said.

Don’t idle unnecessarily either, like at rest stops.

“Your car engine consumes about a quarter to a half a gallon of fuel per hour while it's idling,” she said. “But a warm engine only takes about 10 seconds’ worth of fuel to restart, so if it's safe to do so, just shut off your engine.”

Story continues below.

What happens if my tire blows out?

“When you blow a tire, kaboom, it freaks you out. Do not panic,” Daly said. “Don't slow down abruptly or brake hard or jerk the wheel because that will cause you to lose control and have an accident.”

“Just focus on steering,” she added. “Slow very gradually, off to the side of the road in a safe area, and you won’t have any issue from your blown tire.”

How do you drive around semitrucks?

“Be aware of our needs and limitations,” Daly said. “You know we’re big. We need a lot of space around us. We have big blind spots. … If you can’t see the truck driver’s face in the mirrors of the truck, the truck driver can’t see you.”

She advised against passing on the right. 

“If you have to pass quickly, don’t linger over there. We see people driving over there for the shade (and it) puts us in a very dangerous situation,” she said. “And don’t cut in front of us and then hit your breaks. People don’t like to follow a truck because they can’t see around us, so they pass us and then cut in front of us.”

“It takes away that safety cushion we leave in front of us,” she added. “When you see all that space in front of a truck, that's not for your convenience so that you can pass us and cut into it. That’s for our safety and yours.”

By the same token, she advised fellow drivers to leave plenty of space in front of their own vehicles, so they have enough room to stop quickly in an emergency. If another driver cuts into that space, she suggested, “Take a break. Slow down again. Recreate that space. Bite your tongue and think pure thoughts.”

That last tip may not be so easy.

What has been your best or worst road trip experience?

Know before you go.

• What is e-tron®
• Audi at your Door
• Inclusion & Diversity
• Electric Models
• Inside Audi
• Subscribe to model updates
• Special Offers
• Find a dealer
• New inventory
• Pre-owned inventory
• Certified pre-owned
• Contact dealer
• Trade-in value
• Apply for financing
• About myAudi
• Audi Financial Services
• Audi collection store
• Accessories
• Audi connect
• Service and Parts
• Roadside Assistance
• In-Use Verification Program
• Emissions Modification Lookup
• Accessibility
• INDUSTRY GUIDANCE FOR EMERGENCY RESPONDERS

© 2024 Audi of America. All rights reserved.

• Terms of service
• Privacy statement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information for Targeted Advertising
• Cookie settings
• Interest based ads
• Takata Airbag Recall
• TDI Settlement
• Whistleblower system

Audi of America takes efforts to ensure the accuracy of information on the general vehicle information pages. Models are shown for illustration purposes only and may include features that are not available on the US model. As errors may occur or availability may change, please see dealer for complete details and current model specifications.

17 Family-Friendly Road Trip Audiobooks Perfect For Your Next Adventure

A ny parent brave enough to hit the road with kids knows to come prepared with two things: a plethora of snacks and plenty of entertainment. A quick trip to Trader Joe’s or Costco can knock out the first, but the second isn’t quite as easy. After all, you can only listen to so much Kidz Bop ! The solution? Family-friendly road trip audiobooks to lull your kids into blissfully quiet listening. From classics like Roald Dahl’s Matilda to the New Orleans adventures of young Viva Durant, there’s no shortage of top-notch options.

So, whether you’re taking a day trip or driving cross-country with the entire family in your minivan, keep reading for some of the absolute best audiobooks to play on your next adventure.

1. The Wingfeather Saga: On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness by Andrew Peterson

Parents *rave* about this fantasy audiobook series by author Andrew Peterson! The plot? In a cottage above the cliffs on the Dark Sea of Darkness (snicker) live siblings Janner Igiby, his brother Tink, their disabled sister Leeli, and their trusty dog Nugget. But when the venomous Fangs of Dang cross the Dark Sea to overthrow the land, the gifted kids must channel all of their brilliance and bravery to survive. Narrated b y: Andrew Peterson.

2. Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret by Judy Blume

The audiobook tie-in to the movie adaptation of a Judy Blume classic, Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret follows almost-12-year-old Margaret Simon as she moves from New York City to the suburbs. Anxious to fit in with her new friends, she joins a secret club, only to discover the topics of conversation are boys, bras, and getting your period — things she has zero experience in. You can’t really go wrong with this beloved coming-of-age tale if you have a preteen. Narrated by : Laura Hamilton.

3. Viva Durant and the Secret of the Silver Buttons by Ashli St. Armant

Every summer, 14-year-old Viva Durant heads to New Orleans to spend quality time with her “Gram.” But when Gram reads Viva an article about a missing treasure related to the jingle “Miss Mary Mack,” Viva sets out on a quest to solve the mystery — exploring the jazzy city’s unique culture, history, music, and more along the way in this adventurous audiobook . Narrated by : Bahni Turpin.

4. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

Yep, this is the one for the ultra-long road trip . Whether you want to listen to one book or the entire series , it just takes the press of a button to welcome the magic of the wizarding world into the family car. Start a family tradition and turn on Harry Potter for every road trip ahead, as there are hours and hours of listening to indulge in. Narrated by : Jim Dale.

5. Letters From Camp by Jamie Lee Curtis and Boco Haft

Remember the days of sleepover summer camp in your youth? This immersive (and wildly charming) collection will take you right back to that nostalgia-filled time. It tells the story of tween Mookie Hooper, who decides in 2005 to investigate a girl who went missing from Camp Cartwright. Yes, it’s a podcast and not an audio “book” — but the full cast, including icon Jamie Lee Curtis, makes it well worth adding to the list. Narrated by : Jamie Lee Curtis, Sunny Sandler, and more.

6. Zero G by Dan Wells

Another immersive 3D audiobook, Zero G takes your family to outer space where Zero is one of 20,000 people on a spaceship headed toward a new planet to be colonized. The hijinks start when Zero’s pod malfunctions, bringing him out of stasis 100 years earlier than everyone else. Things only get more heart-pumping when a family of pirates tries to hijack the ship — with only Zero awake to fight them off. Narrated by : Emily Woo Zeller, Margaret Ying Drake, and more.

7. Tales of Beatrix Potter by Beatrix Potter

Traveling with little ones isn’t for the faint of heart — you’re going to need an abundance of distractions to keep the peace. Let this unabridged collection of 18 Beatrix Potter stories help. Transport your family to a charming (and nostalgic) world inhabited by Peter Rabbit, Tom Kitten, Squirrel Nutkin, Mrs. Tittlemouse, and more. Narrated by : Nadia May.

8. Holes by Louis Sachar

Add this irresistible audiobook to your list whether your family has read the 1999 Newbery-Medal-winning book, watched the 2003 film adaptation, or is new to the YA gem. Listen along as young Stanley Yelnats gets sent to a juvenile detention center, which he attributes to the family curse placed on his great-great-grandfather by a one-legged gypsy. As he and the other boys at Camp Green Lake spend their days digging holes in the dried-up soil, Stanley starts to realize they aren’t just digging to build character. Narrated by : Kerry Beyer.

9. The Jumbies by Tracey Baptiste

If you have a kid who’s into all things spooky, The Jumbies is the perfect audiobook for your next family road trip. Rooted in Caribbean folklore, it centers on a fearless young girl named Corinne La Mer, who must summon up all of her courage — and some ancient magic she didn’t know she possessed — to save her island home from mystical creatures called jumbies. Narrated by : Robin Miles.

10. Matilda by Roald Dahl

Turn your next road trip into a whimsical ride with the audiobook version of award-winning children’s book, Matilda ! It’s narrated by Kate Winslet, which makes it addicting to listen to. Kids and adults alike can enjoy the magic of a timeless story the next time there’s a family day trip and entertainment is needed. Narrated by : Kate Winslet.

11. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Caroll

Crank the volume and go on a journey with Alice, from chatting with a caterpillar to attending the infamous mad tea party. This whimsical audiobook (told by a familiar famous voice!) brings to life all of the different characters of Wonderland. Narrated by : Scarlett Johansson.

12. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum

The audiobook version of this classic tale features the voice of Academy-Award-winning actress Anne Hathaway to tell one of the most enduring American stories. It’s family-friendly, theatrical, and beautifully done. Narrated by : Anne Hathaway.

13. Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson

Want to sneak a little education for your kiddos into your summer travel? Look, er, listen no further than Neil deGrasse Tyson’s New York Times best-selling guide to the cosmos — adapted for young listeners, natch. Starting with the Big Bang and moving through both basics and big questions of time and space, this out-of-this-world audiobook will have the whole fam riveted. Narrated by : LeVar Burton.

14. Minecraft: The Island by Max Brooks

Calling all parents of gamers! This audiobook version of the first official Minecraft novel is sure to please. Get lost in the story of a lone castaway who washes ashore on the beach of a mysterious island and must tap into every survival skill they have to, ahem, craft their way out of the perilous place. Zombie hordes, exploding creepers, armed skeletons, an unstoppable tide of hot lava — what’s not to love? Narrated by : Jack Black.

15. The Golden Orchard by Flora Ahn

Your summer vacay plans probably don’t include time travel, but you can change that with this intergenerational audiobook tale . Maya loves cooking with her grandmother, aka her Halmunee, to connect with her family’s rich heritage. But she could never have imagined that the strong memory the food evoked would take them back in time to the memory itself! It’s only then Maya learns from her Halmunee that the women in their family have the gift of time travel... which leads her to a magical place called the Golden Orchard that’s packed with trees full of people’s memories. Narrated by : Kathleen Choe.

16. Don’t Make Me Pull Over by Richard Ratay

This ideal family road trip audiobook describes the informal history of the family road trip. It’s not so much about taking a road trip as it is about surviving one, a la National Lampoon style. Funny and fascinating, it’s probably best suited for tweens and up. Narrated by : Jonathan Todd Ross.

17. The Family Road Trip Quiz by A.J. Lovegood Jr., narrated by Jessi Walters

Let this cool, engaging audiobook sound off next time the minivan is revved up and ready to go. This interactive quiz will challenge different participants, aka members of the family, to answer questions, both trivia-style and more personal conversation starters. (Nothing too personal, just things like “What superpower would you have?” and such!) Narrated by : Jessi Walters.