The Audi Q6 E-Tron is a tech-packed new entry that has been revealed as the firm’s new electric SUV to rival the best-selling Tesla Model Y and BMW iX3 . It showcases a new platform shared with the forthcoming electric Porsche Macan – and promises to bring its maker back the sharp end of the EV grid.
It slots between Audi’s electric Q4 and Q8 e-tron models, and shares underpinnings with Porsche on its new Macan EV – both of which have been significantly delayed. Arriving in Audi dealers later in 2024, the Q6 E-Tron uses a new 100kWh battery that allows for a claimed range of up to 381 miles.
At launch, the Q6 E-Tron comes with two electric motors enabling all-wheel-drive. The regular version produces 388hp, allowing a 0-62mph time of 5.9 seconds. Audi will also offer a sportier SQ6 E-Tron, which produces up to 517hp and can spring to 62mph in just 4.3 seconds. A rear-wheel-drive model with a smaller 83kWh battery option will join the line-up at a later date.
It is also equipped with a maximum charging capacity of 270kW – one of the highest of any car currently on sale – which allows a 10-80% recharge to take place in as little as 21 minutes.
Audi promises that the SUV ‘offers sufficient space for five passengers’, while its styling fits in with other models in its range, with clear links to the smaller Q4 E-Tron. The large ‘Singleframe’ grille is closed off in typical electric car fashion, while split headlights are a new design feature that will be used on various future Audis.
The Q6 is also the first car to have an ‘active digital light signature’, which can create a new lighting image ‘every 10 milliseconds’. Eight different rear lighting signatures are also available, while the lighting is even able to warn other road users of breakdowns or accidents with integrated warning symbols.
Inside, the Q6 gets a modern look with a wraparound display that Audi calls a ‘Digital Stage’, incorporating the cockpit and large touchscreen, with the passenger even getting their own screen. The infotainment also uses an Android operating system in an Audi for the first time. Other tech features include an augmented-reality head-up display, and an AI-supported voice assistant.
The Audi Q6 E-Tron and SQ6 E-Tron will be available to order from 30 April, starting from £68,795 and £92,950 respectively.
What this means for you
The Audi Q6 E-Tron has been a long time coming and will arrive as a key player in the electric SUV market. Audi has lagged behind fellow German brands BMW and Mercedes-Benz with its choice of electric SUVs, so the Q6 will certainly help.
The Audi Q6 looks to offer a longer range than many of its rivals, while being packed with technology and offering a practical and family-friendly interior. Whether the Q6’s steeper cost is justified on the spacious and well-rounded Q4 E-Tron remains to be seen, however.
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