Audi e-tron vs BMW 330e
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Audi e-tron | BMW 330e | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 408 | 288 | +41.7% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 664 | 420 | +58.1% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | 5★ (NHTSA) | — |
| Fuel type | Electric | Plug-in Hybrid | — |
| Transmission | Automatic | 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $87,372 | $44,500 | +96.3% |
- Audi e-tron makes about 42% more power (408 vs 288 hp).
- Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Plug-in Hybrid), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
- Prices are converted to USD from their home markets (Germany and US); taxes and availability differ by country.
Verdict: e-tron or 330e?
Audi e-tron advantages
- Engine power (+29%)
- Pulling torque (+37%)
BMW 330e advantages
- Affordability (+49%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Audi e-tron if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
- Choose the BMW 330e if you want the lower upfront cost.
- Choose the Audi e-tron if you tow, carry loads or drive hilly roads.
Value for money
BMW 330e delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Audi e-tron vs BMW 330e: which should you choose?
Audi e-tron (2020 e-tron 55 quattro) — electric suv with 408 hp and 664 Nm, rated at 22.4 kWh/100km, 5-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $87,372 in the Germany market.
BMW 330e (2021 iPerformance) — plug-in hybrid sedan with 288 hp and 420 Nm, rated at 31.9 km/L, 5-star NHTSA safety; priced near $44,500 in the US market.
Audi e-tron vs BMW 330e: Audi e-tron is more powerful. Audi e-tron makes about 42% more power (408 vs 288 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Plug-in Hybrid), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Performance
The Audi e-tron is the more powerful, at 408 hp against 288 hp, with 664 Nm of torque on tap. Its electric drivetrain pairs with a automatic transmission.
Running costs
These cars use different energy types (Electric vs Plug-in Hybrid), so compare cost per kilometre at your local fuel and electricity prices rather than a single economy number.
Safety
Audi e-tron is rated 5 stars by Euro NCAP and BMW 330e 5 stars by NHTSA. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The BMW 330e lists lower at about $44,500 (USD-converted from the US market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Audi e-tron better than the BMW 330e?
Audi e-tron takes the overall edge, though BMW 330e wins in specific areas worth weighing. Audi e-tron makes about 42% more power (408 vs 288 hp).
What is the main difference between the Audi e-tron and the BMW 330e?
Audi e-tron makes about 42% more power (408 vs 288 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Plug-in Hybrid), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Which is better value?
BMW 330e delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Audi e-tron if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence. Choose the BMW 330e if you want the lower upfront cost.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.