Audi EV Lease Buyout Calculator
Calculate your net buyout cost after the 2026 Audi EV incentive, state sales tax, and estimated fees — then see whether buying out or returning your lease makes more financial sense.
Calculate Your Buyout Cost
How the 2026 Audi EV Buyout Incentive Works
Audi's BEV Lessee Buyout Option Incentive reduces the contractual lease-end buyout price for current Audi EV lessees in the USA. According to dealer bulletins reported by major auto outlets in September 2026, the program runs through the end of the month and offers model-specific discounts:
- Audi e-tron GT: $10,000 off the contractual buyout price
- Audi Q4 e-tron: $5,000 off the contractual buyout price
- Audi Q8 e-tron: $4,000 off the contractual buyout price
The incentive reduces the taxable buyout amount in most cases, which also lowers your state sales tax. Always confirm the exact terms with Audi Financial Services (AFS) or your dealership before making a final decision.
Buy vs. Return: What to Consider
Buying Out Makes Sense When:
- Your car's current market value is at or above your net buyout cost (positive equity).
- You want to keep the vehicle long-term and avoid new-lease pricing.
- You can finance the buyout at a competitive rate.
- You like the vehicle and its remaining battery warranty coverage.
Returning Makes Sense When:
- You're significantly underwater (market value well below the total buyout cost).
- Newer EV models offer substantially better range, charging speed, or value.
- You want to avoid long-term ownership costs (insurance, maintenance, tires).
The calculator above shows your position based on your inputs. Dealership disposition fees, excess mileage charges, and wear-and-tear costs can further shift the math.
Reference: Base State Sales Tax Rates
State sales tax is typically applied to the buyout price and can add $1,000–$3,000+ to your total cost. The rates below are base state-level rates. Local and county taxes may increase the effective rate. Confirm your actual rate with your state's Department of Revenue or DMV.
| State | Base Rate | State | Base Rate |
|---|
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth buying out my Audi EV lease?
It depends on your vehicle's current market value relative to your net buyout cost. If market value is at or above your total buyout cost, buying out is financially favorable. If you're significantly underwater, returning may be the better choice. Use the calculator above to see your specific numbers.
How does the Audi EV buyout incentive work?
Audi applies a model-specific discount directly to your contractual lease-end buyout price. For the September 2026 program, the discount is $10,000 for e-tron GT, $5,000 for Q4 e-tron, and $4,000 for Q8 e-tron. Confirm the exact amount with Audi Financial Services.
How much is my Audi Q4 e-tron lease buyout after the incentive?
Your net buyout is your contractual residual value minus the $5,000 Q4 e-tron incentive, plus state sales tax and fees. For example, a $35,000 residual in California (7.25% base tax) produces roughly a $32,175 net buyout before title and registration fees.
Should I buy out my Audi e-tron GT or return it?
The e-tron GT has seen significant depreciation, and the $10,000 incentive is the largest in the program. Compare your specific net buyout cost against a current market value estimate (KBB, Edmunds, Carvana) — the calculator above shows your equity position automatically.
What happens if I return my Audi EV lease instead?
Returning typically involves paying a disposition fee (around $395–$495 for Audi), any excess mileage or wear-and-tear charges, and walking away from the vehicle. You would then need to arrange new transportation, which may mean a new lease or purchase.
Can I negotiate my Audi lease buyout price?
The contractual residual value itself is not negotiable — it was set at lease signing. However, the current Audi buyout incentive effectively reduces your price by $4,000–$10,000. You may also negotiate the disposition fee waiver or other fees directly with your dealer.
How is Audi lease buyout calculated?
Net Buyout = Contractual Residual − Audi Incentive. Then total cost = Net Buyout + State Sales Tax + Fees. Equity = Market Value − Total Cost. All formulas used in this calculator are documented in the methodology section below.
Does the Audi buyout incentive apply before or after tax?
In most cases the incentive is applied before tax, which means your taxable buyout amount is reduced — and so is your sales tax. Always verify the exact application order with AFS or your dealer, as it can affect your final cost by hundreds of dollars.
What is the residual value on a 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron?
Residual values vary by trim, lease term, mileage allowance, and month of signing. Your exact residual is stated on your lease contract. Typical 36-month residuals for the Q4 e-tron have ranged from roughly 50% to 58% of MSRP depending on trim and lease terms.
Can I avoid sales tax on an Audi lease buyout?
A few states have no sales tax (Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, Oregon) or offer EV-specific sales tax exemptions. In most states, sales tax applies to the buyout price. Some states allow you to avoid a second tax if you already paid tax on the full vehicle value at lease signing — verify with your state DMV.
What fees are included in an Audi lease buyout?
Typical fees include title transfer, registration, and documentation fees. Audi may also waive the disposition fee when you buy out the lease. This calculator uses an estimated $500 combined fee; actual amounts vary by state and dealer.
Is the Audi EV buyout incentive available in all states?
Yes — the September 2026 BEV Lessee Buyout Option Incentive is a national program, available through participating Audi dealers across all 50 states. State-level tax treatment of the buyout still varies.
Methodology & Important Assumptions
This calculator uses the following formulas, all applied client-side in your browser:
- Net Buyout = Contractual Residual − Audi Incentive
- State Tax = Net Buyout × State Base Rate
- Total Cost = Net Buyout + State Tax + Estimated Fees ($500 default)
- Equity = Estimated Market Value − Total Cost
- Break-even Market Value = Total Cost
Key Assumptions
- Audi incentive applies before tax calculation.
- State rates reflect base state-level rates; local/county taxes may add 0.5%–3.0%.
- Estimated fees of $500 cover title, registration, and documentation.
- Market value is user-provided; no live valuation feed is used.
- Incentive amounts reflect the September 2026 program reported by auto industry outlets.
What This Tool Does Not Do
- It does not provide a binding buyout quote.
- It does not calculate lease-end wear-and-tear or excess mileage charges.
- It does not account for state-specific EV rebates or credits.
- It does not access live market value data.
Audi EV Lease Buyout Calculator: See Your Net Cost After the 2026 Incentive
Last updated: September 2026 · Estimated reading time: 9 minutes
Audi's September 2026 BEV Lessee Buyout Option Incentive gives current Audi EV lessees a meaningful discount on their contractual lease-end buyout price — up to $10,000 depending on the model. But the incentive only tells part of the story. The real question most lessees are trying to answer is straightforward: is it cheaper to buy out my Audi EV or hand back the keys?
That answer depends on three numbers that vary from person to person: your contractual residual, your state's sales tax, and your vehicle's current market value. This guide walks through how the 2026 incentive works, how the buyout math is actually calculated, and how to compare buying out versus returning — with worked examples for the Q4 e-tron, e-tron GT, and Q8 e-tron.
You can run your own numbers with our Audi EV Lease Buyout Calculator above, which applies the incentive automatically by model and calculates your net cost after state tax.
Key Takeaways
- Audi's September 2026 BEV buyout incentive offers $10,000 off the e-tron GT, $5,000 off the Q4 e-tron, and $4,000 off the Q8 e-tron buyout price.
- Your net buyout equals contractual residual minus the Audi incentive, plus state sales tax and estimated fees.
- Whether buying out makes sense depends on how your net buyout cost compares to your vehicle's current market value.
- Sales tax varies dramatically by state — from 0% in New Jersey, Montana, New Hampshire, Oregon, Delaware, and Alaska, to over 7% in California and Rhode Island.
- Third-party buyouts (Carvana, CarMax, etc.) are restricted by Audi Financial Services — only you or an Audi dealer can buy out the lease.
- Disposition fees are typically waived when you buy out, which can save another $395–$495.
- Always confirm your final buyout quote with Audi Financial Services before making a decision.
How the 2026 Audi EV Buyout Incentive Works
Audi's incentive is applied directly against the contractual buyout price listed in your lease agreement — not against your monthly payment and not against the original MSRP. Dealers were notified of the program in early September 2026, and it runs through the end of that month according to reports from InsideEVs, CarsDirect, and Carscoops.
Incentive Amounts by Model
| Audi Model | Buyout Incentive | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Audi e-tron GT | $10,000 | Largest discount in the program; significant depreciation on this model makes the incentive especially relevant |
| Audi Q4 e-tron | $5,000 | Increased from a prior $3,000 offer; Audi's highest-volume EV |
| Audi Q8 e-tron | $4,000 | Discontinued model; targeted at remaining lessees |
Program Timeline and Eligibility
The incentive applies to current Audi Financial Services lessees whose lease is approaching maturity and who choose to buy out the vehicle rather than return it. The program window is short — ending September 30, 2026 — and Audi has not publicly confirmed whether it will be extended. If you are weighing the buyout decision, verifying your eligibility with AFS directly is the safest first step.
What Your Audi Lease Buyout Price Actually Includes
The "buyout price" you see in your AFS account is not the number you pay out the door. Four components affect what you actually owe at lease-end:
1. Residual Value
Your residual is the pre-agreed value of the vehicle at lease-end, set when you signed the lease. This is the largest component of your buyout price and cannot be renegotiated — it's a contractual figure. For a 36-month Q4 e-tron lease, residuals have typically landed between 50% and 58% of MSRP depending on trim and lease terms.
2. State Sales Tax
Most states charge sales tax on the buyout amount. This is where the numbers get very different state-to-state. A $30,000 net buyout costs nothing extra in New Jersey (which exempts EV sales tax) but adds roughly $2,175 in California at the base 7.25% rate — and more if you live in a county with additional local tax.
3. Title, Registration, and Documentation Fees
Every state charges title transfer and registration fees. Dealers may also charge a documentation fee. These are usually $300–$700 total, and they vary more by state than by dealer.
4. Disposition Fee Waiver
Audi normally charges a disposition fee (typically $395–$495) when you return a leased vehicle. This fee is generally waived when you buy out the lease, which is a small but real benefit to keeping the car.
Buy vs. Return: Which Option Makes Sense?
The math comes down to two numbers: your total buyout cost and your vehicle's current market value. The difference between them is your equity position.
When Buying Out Makes Sense
- Your market value is at or above your total buyout cost (positive equity)
- You like the vehicle and want to keep it long-term
- You can finance the buyout at a competitive rate (typically 5.5%–8.5% APR depending on credit)
- The remaining battery warranty still provides meaningful coverage (Audi offers 8 years / 100,000 miles on the high-voltage battery)
When Returning Makes Sense
- You are significantly underwater — market value well below total buyout cost
- Newer EV models offer substantially better range, charging speed, or pricing
- You want to avoid long-term ownership costs (insurance, tires, out-of-warranty repairs)
- You are uncomfortable with EV depreciation risk over the next 3–5 years
The Three-Way Comparison
| Option | Immediate Cost | Long-Term Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buy Out | Net buyout + tax + fees | Insurance, maintenance, repairs, depreciation | Positive equity owners planning to keep the car |
| Return | Disposition fee + wear/mileage charges | New lease or purchase payments | Underwater lessees or those wanting a newer EV |
| Lease New Audi EV | New lease signing costs | New monthly payments | Drivers who value warranty coverage and latest tech |
Audi EV Lease Buyout Examples by Model
These examples use assumed residual values, base state tax rates, and estimated fees. Your actual numbers will differ based on your lease contract, location, and vehicle condition.
Audi Q4 e-tron Example (California)
- Contractual residual: $35,000
- Audi incentive: −$5,000
- Net buyout: $30,000
- California base sales tax (7.25%): $2,175
- Estimated title/registration/doc fees: $500
- Total buyout cost: $32,675
- Estimated market value (30,000 miles): $30,000
- Estimated equity: −$2,675 (negative)
- Recommendation: Consider returning; compare against a new lease
Audi e-tron GT Example (Texas)
- Contractual residual: $75,000
- Audi incentive: −$10,000
- Net buyout: $65,000
- Texas state sales tax (6.25%): $4,062.50
- Estimated title/registration/doc fees: $500
- Total buyout cost: $69,562.50
- Estimated market value: $68,000
- Estimated equity: −$1,562.50 (marginally negative)
- Recommendation: The incentive closes most of the gap — evaluate based on your long-term ownership plans
Audi Q8 e-tron Example (New Jersey)
- Contractual residual: $48,000
- Audi incentive: −$4,000
- Net buyout: $44,000
- New Jersey EV sales tax: $0 (EV exemption)
- Estimated title/registration/doc fees: $500
- Total buyout cost: $44,500
- Estimated market value: $41,000
- Estimated equity: −$3,500 (negative)
- Recommendation: New Jersey's EV tax exemption helps, but the gap is still meaningful — compare against new options
Run these numbers for your own situation using the Audi EV Lease Buyout Calculator at the top of this page. It applies the correct incentive for your model and your state's base tax rate automatically.
State Sales Tax on Audi Lease Buyouts
Sales tax on lease buyouts varies significantly by state. The table below lists base state-level rates — local and county taxes can add another 0.5% to 3.0% on top.
| State | Base Rate | State | Base Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 4.00% | Montana | 0.00% |
| Alaska | 0.00% | Nebraska | 5.50% |
| Arizona | 5.60% | Nevada | 6.85% |
| Arkansas | 6.50% | New Hampshire | 0.00% |
| California | 7.25% | New Jersey | 6.625%* |
| Colorado | 2.90% | New Mexico | 4.875% |
| Connecticut | 6.35% | New York | 4.00% |
| Delaware | 0.00% | North Carolina | 4.75% |
| Florida | 6.00% | North Dakota | 5.00% |
| Georgia | 4.00% | Ohio | 5.75% |
| Hawaii | 4.00% | Oklahoma | 4.50% |
| Idaho | 6.00% | Oregon | 0.00% |
| Illinois | 6.25% | Pennsylvania | 6.00% |
| Indiana | 7.00% | Rhode Island | 7.00% |
| Iowa | 6.00% | South Carolina | 6.00% |
| Kansas | 6.50% | South Dakota | 4.20% |
| Kentucky | 6.00% | Tennessee | 7.00% |
| Louisiana | 4.45% | Texas | 6.25% |
| Maine | 5.50% | Utah | 6.10% |
| Maryland | 6.00% | Vermont | 6.00% |
| Massachusetts | 6.25% | Virginia | 5.30% |
| Michigan | 6.00% | Washington | 6.50% |
| Minnesota | 6.875% | West Virginia | 6.00% |
| Mississippi | 7.00% | Wisconsin | 5.00% |
| Missouri | 4.225% | Wyoming | 4.00% |
*New Jersey exempts many EV sales from state sales tax, but rules around lease buyouts can vary — verify with the New Jersey Division of Taxation and AFS.
These rates reflect base state-level rates. Local sales taxes may add another 0.5%–3.0% depending on your county and city. Confirm your exact rate with your state's Department of Revenue before finalizing the math.
Audi Financial Services Buyout Process
The AFS buyout process is straightforward but has a few important restrictions:
- Request a payoff quote through your AFS account or by calling Audi Financial Services. Your quote is valid for a limited window (usually 10–15 days).
- Pay the balance via certified funds, wire transfer, or approved financing.
- Complete title and registration with your state DMV.
- Note the third-party restriction — AFS does not permit third-party buyouts. This means you cannot sell the leased vehicle directly to Carvana, CarMax, or a similar service. The buyout must go through you or a franchised Audi dealer.
If you plan to finance the buyout, arrange the loan before your payoff quote expires to avoid having to request a new one.
What About Negative Equity?
Many Audi EV lessees — especially e-tron GT owners — are facing negative equity due to aggressive EV depreciation over the past two years. If your market value is below your net buyout cost, you have four realistic options:
- Buy out anyway if you plan to keep the vehicle long-term. The negative equity reverses on paper if you own the car past the depreciation curve.
- Return the lease and accept the loss of the incentive. You avoid paying the negative equity out of pocket but walk away with nothing.
- Negotiate a lease extension with AFS to delay the decision while the market settles.
- Lease a new Audi EV and let the dealer handle the lease-end logistics — though this usually means rolling any negative equity into the new lease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth buying out my Audi EV lease?
It depends on your market value relative to your total buyout cost. If market value is at or above your total buyout cost, buying out is financially favorable — you'd have positive equity immediately. If you're meaningfully underwater, returning is usually the cleaner financial move. Run your specific numbers first.
How does the Audi EV buyout incentive work?
Audi applies a model-specific discount directly to your contractual lease-end buyout price. For September 2026, the discount is $10,000 for the e-tron GT, $5,000 for the Q4 e-tron, and $4,000 for the Q8 e-tron. The discount reduces your buyout balance before tax in most cases.
How much is my Audi Q4 e-tron lease buyout after the $5,000 incentive?
Your net buyout equals your contractual residual minus $5,000, plus state sales tax and estimated fees. For example, a $35,000 residual in California (7.25% base tax) produces roughly a $32,675 total buyout cost before financing.
Should I buy out my Audi e-tron GT or return it?
The e-tron GT has seen steep depreciation, and the $10,000 incentive is the largest in the program. Compare your specific net buyout cost against a current market value estimate from KBB, Edmunds, or Carvana. If you're within a few thousand dollars of break-even, buying out is often the better long-term choice.
Can I negotiate my Audi lease buyout price?
The contractual residual value itself is not negotiable — it was set at lease signing. However, the current Audi incentive effectively reduces your price by $4,000–$10,000. You may also be able to negotiate the disposition fee waiver or documentation fee with your dealer.
What happens if I return my Audi EV lease instead?
Returning typically involves paying a disposition fee (around $395–$495), any excess mileage or wear-and-tear charges, and then walking away from the vehicle. You'd then need to arrange new transportation — a new lease, a purchase, or another alternative.
How is Audi lease buyout calculated?
Net Buyout = Contractual Residual − Audi Incentive. Then Total Cost = Net Buyout + State Sales Tax + Fees. Equity = Market Value − Total Cost. All formulas used in our calculator are documented in the methodology section below.
Does the Audi buyout incentive apply before or after tax?
In most cases, the incentive is applied before tax — meaning your taxable amount is reduced, and so is your sales tax. Always verify the exact application order with AFS or your dealer, as it can affect your final cost by hundreds of dollars.
Can I avoid sales tax on an Audi lease buyout?
A few states have no sales tax (Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, Oregon) or offer EV-specific exemptions. In most states, sales tax applies to the buyout price. Some states allow you to avoid double taxation if you already paid tax on the full value at lease signing — verify with your state DMV.
What fees are included in an Audi lease buyout?
Typical fees include title transfer, registration, and documentation fees. Audi may also waive the disposition fee when you buy out. This calculator uses an estimated $500 combined fee for the projection; actual amounts vary by state and dealer.
Is the Audi EV buyout incentive available in all states?
Yes — the September 2026 BEV Lessee Buyout Option Incentive is a national program available through participating Audi dealers across all 50 states. State-level tax treatment of the buyout still varies significantly.
Can I sell my leased Audi EV to Carvana or CarMax?
No. Audi Financial Services does not permit third-party buyouts. Only you (as the lessee) or a franchised Audi dealer can purchase the vehicle at lease-end. If you want to capture equity, you would need to buy out the lease yourself first, then sell the vehicle privately.
Methodology & Data Sources
How We Calculate Your Buyout Price
Our calculator applies the following formulas, all computed client-side in your browser:
- Net Buyout = Contractual Residual − Audi Incentive
- State Tax = Net Buyout × State Base Rate
- Total Cost = Net Buyout + State Tax + Estimated Fees ($500 default)
- Equity = Estimated Market Value − Total Cost
- Break-even Market Value = Total Cost
Data Sources
- Audi buyout incentive amounts and program dates: Audi dealer bulletin reported by InsideEVs, CarsDirect, and Carscoops (September 2026).
- State sales tax rates: Base state-level rates; local rates may apply. Confirm with your state's Department of Revenue.
- Residual values: User-provided from lease contract. Lease contracts are issued by Audi Financial Services.
- Market value estimates: User-provided or checked against KBB, Edmunds, or Carvana. Our calculator does not pull live valuation data.
- Fee ranges: Typical title, registration, and documentation fees based on state DMV schedules.
- Battery warranty information: Audi's published 8-year / 100,000-mile high-voltage battery warranty for US vehicles.
Limitations
- This calculator provides estimates only. It does not produce a binding buyout quote.
- It does not account for state-specific EV rebates or credits that may apply to a buyout.
- It does not calculate lease-end wear-and-tear or excess mileage charges.
- It does not access live market value data — the user must enter a market value estimate.
- Local sales taxes may add 0.5%–3.0% on top of the base state rate shown.
Disclaimer: The information and calculations on this page are for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Actual buyout costs, taxes, and fees are set by Audi Financial Services, your state, and your dealership. Always confirm your final buyout quote and tax liability with AFS and your state's Department of Revenue before making a financial decision.
Related EV Lease Tools and Guides
- Tesla Autopilot Wrongful Death Settlement Calculator
- EV Owners Guide 2026: Battery, Charging, Winter, Tires & Lemon Law
- EV Maintenance Cost Calculator
- Free EV Break-Even Calculator Online
- EV Tax Credit Calculator Check Eligibility & Savings
- EV Charging Cost Calculator by ZIP Code
- EV Range Calculator
- EV Charging Time Calculator by Model
- V2G Revenue Calculator
- EV Charging Queue Calculator
- EV Insurance Calculator
- EV Battery Passport Checker
- EV Battery Health Checker
- EV Financing Calculator with Sales Tax
- EV Battery Health Score Calculator
- EV Home Charging Cost Calculator
- EV Cost Per Mile Calculator (2026)
- EV Battery Degradation Calculator
- EV Range Calculator by Temperature
- EV Charging Network Comparison 2026
- EV Catastrophic Injury Lawsuit Calculator
- Residual value — the pre-agreed value of the car at lease-end, typically a percentage of MSRP set at signing. This is the largest component and is not negotiable.
- Remaining payments — if you buy out early, you may owe remaining monthly payments. At lease-end, this is typically $0.
- Purchase option fee — a fee charged by the leasing company for the buyout privilege.
- Sales tax — applied to the buyout amount. This varies significantly by state (0% in NJ/Montana/Oregon to over 7% in California).
- Title and registration fees — state DMV charges for transferring the title.
- Documentation fee — dealer or lender processing fee.
- ~1% or less — Outstanding deal
- ~1.25% — Good deal
- ~1.5% — Fair/acceptable maximum
- Over 1.5% — Likely not a competitive deal
- Audi Q4 e-tron: Lease deals have been available in the mid-$400s to low-$600s per month range in the US, depending on term and mileage.
- Audi e-tron GT: Lease payments typically start around $826/month for a 36-month term with 15,000 mi/yr allowance.
- Audi A6 e-tron Sportback: UK lease deals start at approximately £686.78/month including VAT.
- Rapid EV depreciation: EVs depreciate faster than gas cars due to technological advancements, battery degradation concerns, and shifting demand. The 2021 Audi e-tron has lost approximately 63% of its value in just three years, with resale values around $19,450 and trade-in values around $15,000.
- Range limitations: Early e-tron models (2019–2022) offered only 218–222 miles of range, which is below many newer competitors.
- Model renaming and discontinuation: The original e-tron was renamed Q8 e-tron in 2022, and production ended in 2025 with the closure of Audi's Belgian facility.
- Audi's buyout incentive: Audi is actively encouraging lessees to keep their EVs rather than return them, offering up to $10,000 off buyout prices — which reflects how much Audi wants to avoid absorbing wholesale losses on returned EVs.
- Used EV market pressure: As more EVs come off lease, supply has increased while demand fluctuates, pushing used prices down.
- Kia Niro EV: At $239/month with $3,999 due at signing on a 24-month term, this was the lowest-cost new EV lease available in June 2026. Effective cost is about $400/month before taxes and fees.
- Toyota bZ: At $379/month, the bZ undercut several popular electric SUV rivals in August 2026, with an effective cost of about $490/month.
- Audi A6 e-tron: Listed at $826/month for a 36-month term with 15,000 mi/yr in August 2026.
- Hyundai IONIQ 9 SEL: Starting at $495/month, this three-row electric SUV significantly undercuts the Tesla Model X ($999/month) and Rivian R1S ($799/month).
- Battery technology advancement: Newer EVs offer more range, faster charging, and better efficiency, making older models less desirable.
- Range concerns: The original e-tron's 218–222 mile range was competitive in 2019 but is now well below average for premium EVs.
- High initial price: The 2021 e-tron was over $80,000 out the door, and that high starting point amplifies depreciation in percentage terms.
- Model discontinuation: The e-tron/Q8 e-tron was discontinued in 2025, which reduces long-term parts and service confidence for buyers.
- Battery degradation uncertainty: Used EV buyers worry about replacing battery packs that can cost $15,000–$20,000+, which suppresses resale values.
- Market oversupply: Many e-trons came off lease simultaneously, flooding the used market.
- Q4 e-tron: Still in production and is Audi's highest-volume EV.
- e-tron GT: Still in production (based on Porsche Taycan platform).
- Q6 e-tron: Newer model, now available.
- A6 e-tron: Newer model, now available.
- Massive depreciation means you can buy a 2021 e-tron for under $25,000 — roughly a quarter of its original price.
- Air suspension comes as standard; the cabin is refined and quiet.
- Fast charging capability (150 kW DC) is still competitive for daily use.
- Build quality and materials are genuinely premium.
- Range of 218–222 miles (for the 2019–2022 models) is below average for modern EVs.
- Battery degradation may have reduced range further, depending on previous charging habits.
- Discontinued model — parts availability may become an issue long-term.
- Newer EVs are significantly more efficient and offer longer range.
🛠️ Related Tools & Calculators
This page is updated as Audi's incentive programs change. Last updated September 2026.
Does Audi allow lease buyouts?
Yes. Audi Financial Services (AFS) allows lease buyouts at the end of your term, meaning you can purchase the vehicle you've been leasing instead of returning it. However, AFS does not permit third-party buyouts — so you cannot sell the leased vehicle directly to Carvana, CarMax, or similar services. The buyout must go through you (the lessee) or a franchised Audi dealer.
To further encourage buyouts, Audi launched a nationwide "BEV Lessee Buyout Option Incentive" in September 2026, offering up to $10,000 off the contractual buyout price for current EV lessees.
How to figure out lease buyout amount?
Your lease buyout amount is calculated by adding up several components:
The formula: Residual Value + Remaining Payments + Purchase Option Fee + Sales Tax + Title/Registration Fees + Doc Fee = Total Buyout Cost.
You can request an exact payoff quote through your AFS account or by calling Audi Financial Services.
What is the 1.5% rule when leasing a car?
The 1.5% rule is a quick benchmark for evaluating whether a lease deal is competitive. The idea is that your monthly lease payment should not exceed 1.5% of the vehicle's MSRP (list price).
How to calculate it: Multiply the vehicle's MSRP by 1.5%. For example, a $50,000 car should lease for $750/month or less to meet the 1.5% rule.
Interpretation:
Important caveat: The 1.5% rule does not account for contract length, mileage allowance, initial payment, or total cost of the lease. It is a quick reference only — always compare the full lease package.
How much is it to lease an Audi e-tron?
Audi e-tron lease pricing varies significantly by model, trim, lease term, mileage allowance, and region. Based on available lease data:
These are representative figures only. Lease pricing changes monthly and depends on manufacturer incentives, dealer participation, and your credit profile. Check with your local Audi dealer or Audi Financial Services for current offers.
Why are Audi e-trons so cheap now?
Several factors have converged to make Audi e-trons significantly cheaper than their original MSRP, especially on the used market:
Who has the best EV lease deals right now?
Based on available lease data from mid-2026:
Lease deals change monthly. Always check current manufacturer offers and compare the total cost of the lease, not just the monthly payment.
Why do e-trons depreciate so much?
Audi e-trons (especially the original e-tron and Q8 e-tron) have experienced exceptionally steep depreciation for several reasons:
Is the Audi e-tron better than the Tesla?
It depends on what you value. Neither is universally "better" — they prioritize different things.
| Factor | Audi e-tron | Tesla Model X/S |
|---|---|---|
| Interior quality | Premium, luxury-grade materials and finish | Minimalist, tech-focused but less luxurious |
| Ride comfort | Air suspension standard; very refined and quiet | Firmer ride; less emphasis on comfort |
| Range | 218–222 miles (early models) — below average | 300+ miles on most models — significantly better |
| Charging network | Relies on third-party networks (Electrify America, etc.) | Proprietary Supercharger network — major advantage |
| Performance | Quattro AWD; strong but not class-leading | Faster acceleration, especially Model S Plaid |
| Price (used) | Heavily depreciated — excellent value on used market | Holds value better but still depreciates |
| Software/tech | Improved but less advanced than Tesla's ecosystem | Industry-leading OTA updates and Autopilot/FSD |
| Build quality | Generally excellent panel gaps and fit | Historically inconsistent; improved in recent years |
Bottom line: If you prioritize luxury, comfort, and a quiet cabin — and can live with less range — the e-tron is excellent. If you need maximum range, the Supercharger network, and cutting-edge software, Tesla wins.
Is Audi discontinuing the e-tron?
The original Audi e-tron (2019–2022) was renamed the Q8 e-tron in 2022 as part of Audi's naming restructure. The Q8 e-tron was then discontinued in 2025 when the Belgian facility that built it closed.
Audi has mentioned the possibility of reviving the model at a North American factory, but no official confirmation has been made.
For the broader e-tron family:
Is the Audi e-tron worth buying?
Used, yes — with caveats. New, probably not.
Why used e-trons can be excellent value:
Caveats to consider:
Verdict: A used e-tron is a luxury EV bargain if range isn't your top priority and you can verify battery health. If you need maximum range or the latest tech, look elsewhere.
Which is better, Audi e-tron GT or Porsche Taycan?
These two share the same platform (J1) but are tuned and positioned differently. Neither is objectively "better" — it depends on priorities.
| Factor | Audi e-tron GT | Porsche Taycan |
|---|---|---|
| Base horsepower | 469 HP (S e-tron GT: 670 HP) | 402 HP (Turbo: 871 HP) |
| 0–60 MPH (tested) | 2.1 sec (RS e-tron GT performance) | 4.1 sec (Performance Battery Plus) |
| EPA Range | ~300 miles (S e-tron GT) | ~274 miles (base) |
| MPGe (combined) | 91 city / 88 hwy | 89 city / 85 hwy |
| Braking (60–0 MPH) | 109 feet | 112 feet |
| Starting MSRP | ~$106,500 | ~$99,400 (base) |
| Maintenance included | 3 years / 30,000 miles | 2 years / 24,000 miles |
| Dealer network | 51% more dealers than Porsche | Smaller network |
| Driving feel | Grand tourer — comfort-focused with sporty edge | Sharper, more track-focused; Porsche chassis tuning |
Summary: The e-tron GT offers more standard power, faster acceleration in top trims, better braking, and a longer warranty. The Taycan is lighter, more agile, and benefits from Porsche's performance heritage. The e-tron GT is the better daily driver; the Taycan is the better driver's car.
Note: All figures are based on available data as of September 2026. Specifications and pricing are subject to change.
Audi Financial Services lease transition options
U.S. Department of Energy – Alternative Fuels Data Center: Electric Vehicles