The Audi Q6 e-tron is a bold new entry into the premium electric SUV market, representing a significant step in Audi’s electrification strategy. Built on the cutting-edge PPE (Premium Platform Electric) platform shared with Porsche, the Q6 e-tron blends innovative technology, practicality, and luxury, giving it a unique competitive edge.
The Q6 e-tron’s design adopts Audi’s “e-tron language,” characterised by a closed-off single-frame grille and striking Matrix LED headlights, designed for both aesthetics and functionality. At the rear, it features a full-width light bar inspired by the RS e-tron GT, adding a sporty flair. Its dimensions, 4.77 metres in length, 1.7 metres in height, and a 2.89-metre wheelbase, allow for a spacious interior while maintaining sleek proportions. The standout Ascari Blue paintwork in my review model elevates its visual appeal, though its symbolic meaning is up for interpretation (worms, soldiers or racetrack which is probably more apt).
The Q6 e-tron is powered by a 94.9 kWh battery, benefiting from 800-volt architecture. This enables fast charging up to 270 kW, allowing a 10-minute charge to provide approximately 250 km of range. Audi claims a total range of up to 567 km, although real-world results were noted to be lower, especially with vigorous driving.
With 285 kW of power and torque split between the front (275 Nm) and rear (580 Nm) wheels, the Q6 e-tron delivers a 0-100 km/h time of 5.9 seconds. While not breaking EV performance records, the vehicle provides satisfying responsiveness and versatility. Its rear-biased quattro all-wheel drive system and staggered tires (wider in the rear) contribute to both engaging handling and solid traction, particularly noticeable during cornering or dynamic driving.
On the road, the Q6 e-tron strikes an excellent balance between performance, comfort, and practicality. It delivers a smooth and confident ride, thanks to its adaptive chassis control and variable-height suspension system. These features enable the vehicle to transition seamlessly from a comfortable cruiser to a dynamic handler. Though heavy due to its substantial battery, it retains agility and composure around corners, leveraging technologies inherited from Porsche’s platform.
The cabin itself encourages spirited driving, with a sport-focused flat-bottom steering wheel and supportive leather seats embossed with Audi’s “S” logo. The experience is further enhanced by the vehicle’s low noise levels and responsive steering. The driving dynamics perfectly balance the need for family practicality with the occasional thrill for the driver.
Inside the Q6 e-tron, the focus is on luxury and innovation. It features a three-screen layout, including a curved dashboard screen and a dedicated passenger infotainment display with apps like YouTube and Spotify. The materials and craftsmanship are quintessentially Audi, with leather-appointed, heated, and ventilated seats offering excellent comfort.
The cabin’s technology suite is impressive, highlighted by an augmented reality (AR) head-up display that overlays navigation directly onto the windscreen. While highly advanced, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and other areas may feel overengineered and challenging for less tech-savvy users. The car further offers customisable display options for drivers, allowing them to prioritise key driving or energy metrics in real-time.
Practical features include 520 litres of trunk space (plus a 64-litre frunk), heated rear seats, and ample legroom for all passengers. Complemented by a panoramic glass roof, the interior creates a bright and spacious environment. While minor conveniences, like the non-functional foot-gesture tailgate (actually it does have the function, I just couldn’t get it to work), fall slightly short, overall practicality still shines through. Most charging-related tasks are intuitive, despite my criticism of overengineered ‘electric-opening’ charging flaps and there being two – DC one side and AC/DC on the other – yes I know it’s more convenient.
With a starting price of approximately $155,000, the Audi Q6 e-tron represents a compelling option in the premium EV market. It delivers an excellent combination of luxury, technology, and performance. While it may not match Porsche’s electric agility, its family-focused versatility, advanced tech, and long-range capability ensure it stands out as a practical yet exciting choice for discerning buyers.
