Audi has made noteworthy strides within the electrical car market by embracing EV know-how early on, and the brand new Audi Q6 exemplifies the advantages of that funding in engineering and innovation.
The Q6 is positioned as the electrical model of Audi’s mid-size SUV lineup, distinguishing itself from the normal Audi Q5, which remains to be accessible with an inside combustion engine. Whereas the Q6 is barely bigger than the Q5, the distinction is sufficiently subtle that one might not discover except switching between the 2 fashions.
Apparently, the Q6 is formally known as the Q6 e-tron, though Audi’s emphasis on the "e-tron" branding appears to be waning. It’s doubtless that future fashions may even comply with this naming pattern, with each electrical and hybrid choices probably increasing inside the Q5 lineup.
The Q6 marks Audi’s first car constructed on the brand new Premium Platform Electrical (PPE), which can also be set to underpin the upcoming Porsche Macan and the Audi A6. This progressive platform affords vital enhancements over earlier designs.
Only a week earlier than testing the Q6, I drove the brand new Audi Q5, which makes use of the combustion-engine variant of the platform. This comparability on the scenic roads of Tasmania highlighted the developments Audi has made in 5 years. The power density of the battery cells has elevated by 150%, whereas the burden of the battery has decreased by 15%. Consequently, charging occasions have additionally improved, with the Q6 able to recharging from 10% to 80% in simply 21 minutes utilizing a quick charger, including 255 km of vary in simply 10 minutes.
An Audi engineer commented on the gradual progress in battery know-how, suggesting that vital developments are prone to come from steady enhancements somewhat than a sudden breakthrough.
Nevertheless, pricing stays a problem for European EVs just like the Audi Q6, particularly with the rising presence of extra reasonably priced Chinese language electrical automobiles. The beginning worth for the Q6 is $115,500 for a non-quattro, rear-wheel-drive mannequin, providing 558 km of vary. The all-wheel-drive Q6 Quattro begins at $122,500 however has a barely diminished vary of 542 km. The SQ6, the top-tier mannequin priced at $151,400, boasts a spread of 568 km, benefiting from subtle air suspension that optimizes aerodynamics and driving consolation.
When it comes to options, the Q6 is provided with over 30 lively security techniques and a spread of OLED shows. The dashboard is dominated by screens, together with a passenger show that enables for video playback (which the motive force can’t view whereas driving). The central contact display screen accommodates video games and potential entry to an Audi App Retailer for added options. Notably, two video games may even be performed through the head-up show whereas stationary.
Though some may discover the pattern towards leisure choices distracting, it aligns with a broader business push towards making automobiles extra autonomous and interactive. Patrons also can take pleasure in an eight-year battery guarantee, a one-year Chargefox subscription, and a complete five-year unlimited-kilometer guarantee.
Total, the inside of the Q6 feels trendy and splendid, assembly the expectations set by its worth level.
In abstract, the Audi Q6 stands out because the model’s first EV that authentically embodies the essence of Audi, with out straying too far into unconventional territory. In comparison with the sooner e-tron fashions, the Q6 feels built-in into the broader lineup, reflecting a transition to electrical choices as normal choices.
Driving the Q6 reveals the distinct benefits of its electrical powertrain, offering a easy and refined expertise that’s each spectacular and easy. Whereas it might really feel heavier than the Q5, affecting its dealing with barely, the Q6 affords a powerful stability of consolation and efficiency.
This newest mannequin efficiently integrates seamlessly into Audi’s premium SUV vary, showcasing spectacular functionality but in addition carrying a premium price ticket.
Score: 4/5
2025 Audi Q6 e-tron Quattro Specs:
- Worth: $122,500 (excluding on-road prices)
- Automobile Sort: Electrical, 5 seats, 5 doorways, medium SUV, AWD
- Vary: 524 km (WLTP)
- Battery Capability: 100 kWh
- Battery Guarantee: Eight years
- Power Consumption: 19.9 kWh per 100 km
- Powertrain: One asynchronous motor on the entrance axle and one everlasting magnet synchronous motor on the rear, delivering 280 kW and 580 Nm
- AC Charging: 11 kW Sort 2 plug
- DC Charging: 260 kW CCS combo plug
- Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds
