Audi’s new Q6 e-tron promises to be a bit special. It features innovative technology, impressive range, and a premium design. It’s also the first model to sport the new, flatter Audi four rings badge.
Having dropped behind BMW in particular in the electric race among the top luxury car makers, Audi is now going for it in the electric vehicle (EV) segment with the introduction of the new Q6 e-tron.
Officially showcased in Norway, the Q6 e-tron represents a significant leap forward from the original e-tron. Initially a frontrunner in the mass-market electric vehicle segment, the original e-tron made a notable impact by blending electric power with a premium look and feel.
The new Q6 e-tron builds on this reputation with advanced technology, enhanced functionality, and increased driving range.
Design and Platform
The Q6 e-tron is built on Audi’s innovative Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture. This platform is set to underpin several upcoming Audi models, including the A6 e-tron, and will be used across the Volkswagen Group, such as in the Porsche Macan.
Utilizing this new platform allows Audi to maximize interior space without significantly increasing the vehicle’s exterior size. As a result, the Q6 e-tron offers interior space comparable to the larger Q8 e-tron while maintaining a more compact external profile.
The new, flatter, Audi logo designed for the digital age.
Performance and Range
Buyers will have multiple motor configurations to choose from for the Q6 e-tron. Rear-motor variants provide the best possible range, while all-wheel-drive quattro models offer added performance and stability. All versions are powered by a 94.9 kWh battery, with a less expensive model featuring an 83 kWh battery expected soon.
In terms of performance, the quattro variant claims an impressive range of up to 388 miles. The vehicle supports a rapid charging speed of up to 270 kW, enabling a 10 to 80% charge in just 21 minutes. Conveniently, charging ports are available on both sides of the car, accommodating easier access regardless of parking conditions.
Driving Experience
Test drives conducted on Norway’s smooth roads revealed that the Q6 e-tron provides a comfortable and refined driving experience, characteristic of a premium SUV. The vehicle’s quattro model offers ample traction and performs well around tight and slippery corners, despite its substantial weight of over 2.3 tonnes, which is lighter than some competitors. While the driving experience is balanced and refined, it doesn’t aim to deliver a particularly sporty feel.
Striking looks
The new Q6 e-tron is a very good looking car. But it’s not just a pretty face, it comes with strong performance and all the comfort you would expect from Audi.
Exterior and Interior Design
The Q6 e-tron boasts distinctive visual features typical of the Audi brand, including prominent four-ring logos and sophisticated LED headlights with customizable Active Digital Light Signatures. The design incorporates thoughtful touches like the side panels, or “rockers,” which break up the vehicle’s overall design in an aesthetically appealing manner.
Inside, the Q6 e-tron is dominated by a tech-centric aesthetic, featuring an integrated display setup that spans over 93 cm, including screens for the driver, central infotainment, and an optional passenger display. The highly digital environment does take some getting used to, but it quickly becomes intuitive. Additionally, the car offers excellent rear-seat legroom, good headroom, a substantial 525-litre boot, and a 64-litre frunk for additional storage.
Models and Specifications
The entry model will be a single-motor performance variant with the more powerful quattro models costing more. Standard features will include the extensive screen setup and a head-up display with advanced graphics for navigation and speed limits. While some menu options in the infotainment system may seem feature-heavy, the system is responsive and user-friendly.
Competitive Edge
The Q6 e-tron arrives into an increasingly competitive market but stands out with its blend of advanced technology, practicality, and pricing. Competing models like BMW’s iX3 and Mercedes’ EQE are aging in comparison, and the Q6 e-tron’s combination of rapid charging, extensive range, and advanced in-car technology makes it an attractive option.
