After a period of relative quiet on the new product front, with only restyling efforts to speak of, Audi is now revving up for a series of launches, spearheaded by its electric SUV lineup.
Leading the charge is the eagerly awaited Q6 e-tron, along with its sportier variant, the SQ6 e-tron, both of which have faced delays of nearly two years, originally slated for release last fall.
In its competitive segment, rivals like the Tesla Model Y, BMW iX3, and the Mercedes EQC second generation are vying for attention. Yet, the Audi Q6 e-tron stands out with its prestigious lineage, built upon the Volkswagen Group’s latest Premium Platform Electric (PPE) platform, shared with the new electric Porsche Macan.
At the forefront, the Q6 boasts Audi’s signature full single-frame grille and a sleek, minimal overhang. Drawing inspiration from the sporty e-tron GT, designers have incorporated features like the distinctive light strip at the rear.
Audi takes pride in the meticulous attention given to the lighting signature of the Q6 and SQ6, offering a choice of eight designs for the matrix lights, including six OLED panels. Beyond personalization, these lights also serve practical functions, such as displaying warning symbols during braking or when danger is detected.
Inside, the Q6 offers a contemporary experience, centered around a dashboard housing three screens. The 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster pairs with a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, slightly angled towards the driver.
An optional third 10.9-inch screen for the passenger, standard on the SQ6, features a private filter to minimize distractions for the driver. Keeping up with modern electric car standards, the Q6 offers over-the-air updates and 5G compatibility.
An expansive head-up display projects augmented reality information onto an 88-inch surface, enhancing the driving experience. However, the transition to touch-based air conditioning controls on the central screen may impact user fluidity.
Performance-wise, the Q6 delivers 388 hp, while the SQ6 boasts around 490 hp, peaking at almost 517 hp during acceleration. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 5.9 seconds with the Q6 Quattro and 4.3 seconds with the SQ6.
Both models offer four energy recovery modes, including an automatic mode and a “one-pedal” driving option, with energy distribution adapting based on brake pedal pressure.
For charging, the Q6 e-tron supports rapid charging at up to 270 kW on DC terminals, thanks to its 800-volt architecture. Alternatively, it can charge at 135 kW on compatible 400-volt terminals.
AC charging at 11 kW is standard, with a 22 kW version on the horizon. Audi’s attention to detail extends to the integration of a second charger on the passenger side for added convenience, albeit limited to AC charging.
Rapid charging from 10% to 80% capacity takes 21 minutes at 800 volts and just over 30 minutes at 400 volts, with a claimed 255 km of range recoverable in 10 minutes. According to WLTP standards, the Q6 e-tron, equipped with a 100 kWh battery, offers a range of up to 625 km, slightly reduced to 598 km for the more powerful SQ6.
