The 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron is causing a stir in the electric vehicle (EV) segment with its vision as a premium midsize SUV offering a combination of advanced technology, plush comfort, and the familiar Audi style. Being first on a newly adjusted PPE platform by Audi and Porsche, the Q6 e-tron must come with high performance, a long range and a fast charging option. But what’s it like in real-world testing?
This article takes a deeper dive into some of the highlights of the Audi Q6 e-tron, including its design, performance, technology and practicality, which should help you decide if this is the EV you’re looking for.
Audi Q6 e-tron Overview
The Audi Q6 e-tron is an all-electric midsize SUV positioned between the compact Q4 e-tron and the full-size Q8 e-tron in Audi’s growing EV lineup. Due in 2024, it’s a critical car for Audi’s electrification plan, taking the fight to rivals such as the BMW iX3, Mercedes EQE SUV, Tesla Model Y and Polestar 3.
Based on the PPE architecture, it brings some fancy stuff like an 800-volt electrical system that allows for ultra-fast charging and a plush interior that Audi says sets a new benchmark for its EVs. Whether you’re a family buyer or someone with luxury aspirations, the Q6 e-tron has something for everyone with standard SUV and slicker Sportback bodies.
Design of Audi Q6 e-tron
Outside Styling
The Q6 e-tron’s exterior design is a mixture of the familiar and the futuristic. It keeps Audi’s trademark single-frame grille, however with a sealed-mesh pattern to show it’s an EV (since no radiator cooling is required).
The futuristic feel is compounded by the split headlight design that gains the ability to program digital daytime running lights (DRLs) on each side, including 61 segments.
The angularity, athletic stance and taut creases have been lauded by reviewers for creating a muscle-car-with-honed-facial-hair aesthetic compared with the “jellybean” designs for EVs. The 20-inch or 21-inch wheels are optional, and the variety of colors, such as Soneira Red, add to its attractiveness on the road.
Interior
Inside, the Q6 e-tron debuts Audi’s “Digital Stage,” a panoramic dual-screen experience with an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit and a 14.5-inch OLED touchscreen. An available 10.9-inch passenger touchscreen gives front-seat occupants access to entertainment without compromising the driver’s view through the use of digital shutter technology.
The cabin is constructed from eco-friendly materials, such as Dinamica synthetic leather and natural wood inlays, so Audi’s premium vibe is preserved. But a few critics point out that, despite the high-end interior, some of the plastics on the doors and dashboard fall short of the premium materials you’d expect for a car in this price range.
Audi Q6 e-tron Performance
Powertrain Options and Acceleration
The Q6 e-tron can be had in multiple powertrain types depending on driving preference:
- Single-Motor RWD: Makes 302 horsepower (322 hp with launch control), does 0 to 62 mph in 6.6 to 7.0 seconds.
- Dual-Motor AWD (Quattro): Gets 422 hp (456 hp with launch control) and goes from 0 to 60 in anywhere from 4.4 to 4.9 seconds.
- SQ6 e-tron: The performance edition gets 483 hp (509 hp with launch control), with 0-60 mph in 3.7-4.1 seconds.
Reviewers say that acceleration is smooth and linear, tuned to not overwhelm drivers accustomed to internal combustion engine (ICE) powertrains, i.e., not the sudden rush of a neck-snapping EV. Where the SQ6 is an exciting straight-line bullet, the Q6 e-tron puts refinement over sport; it is a car that inspires a feeling of surefootedness and stability.
Ride and Handling: Soft Over Sport Ride quality is the new Telluride’s high point.
When equipped with the optional adaptive air suspension (standard on SQ6 variants), the Q6 e-tron excels at mitigating life’s bumps.
It soaks up the road imperceptibly, offering a soothing, hushed ride thanks to the insulated motors and the use of noise-damping materials. But that 5,269-pound curb weight is readily felt in corners, and the steering is not as quick as that of its Porsche Macan EV cousin.
The reviews of the Q6 are that it rides competently if unexciting, and if you’re looking for a luxury long-distance GT car, the Q6 could well be your thing.
Technology Features
Fast Charging and Range
Among its particularly remarkable features: it will run on an 800-volt system that can be charged at a rate of 270 kW. And by optimal, I mean Audi says customers can expect a 10-80% charge in 21 minutes, equaling 158 miles of range in 10 minutes. With the 94.4 kWh (100 kWh gross), you get an EPA-estimated range of:
- RWD: Up to 321 miles.
- AWD Quattro: Up to 307 miles.
- SQ6: Up to 275 miles.
Real-world tests, among them a 75-mph highway test by Car and Driver, achieved 250 miles for the Quattro model, a strong showing. The Q6 also includes two charging ports (CCS for DC fast charging and Type 2 for AC) for added flexibility.
Regenerative Braking and One-Pedal Driving
The Q6 e-tron is Audi’s first EV with what they call genuine one-pedal driving regenerative braking that can be dialed back and forth with steering wheel paddles.
The system recaptures as much as 220 kW of energy, enough to cover 90% of all brake applications. Reviewers rave about its smooth integration, though a few say the hill-hold system can feel jerky while maneuvering at low speeds in parking lots.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The MSMI system is based on Android for the UK and effortlessly adopts other apps such as Spotify and YouTube without resorting to smartphone mirroring.
The augmented reality heads-up display and top-view camera system increase driver visibility, and the available Bang & Olufsen 20-speaker audio system provides an enhanced auditory experience.
But some testers did feel that the number of screens was overwhelming, indicating a potential learning curve for new buyers.
How Practical Is the Audi Q6 e-tron?
Space and Comfort
That midsize-SUV stretch continues with boot and frunk space at 526 liters and 64 liters, respectively, in the Q6 e-tron. It’s a little down on the Porsche Macan Electric (540 liters) but beats competitors such as the Mercedes EQE SUV (520 liters) and Polestar 3 (484 liters).
The back seats should be comfortable for two adults thanks to ample legroom and headroom, although their center position isn’t as inviting. The cabin is airy and the family-friendly aspect is boosted by a panoramic sunroof and side window shades.
Pricing and Value
Priced from $63,800 for the RWD Premium variant, the Q6 e-tron compares well with the BMW iX3 ($68,000) and Tesla Model Y ($65,000). The AWD Quattro base price is $65,800, and the SQ6’s is $72,900.
Fully equipped models, such as the Prestige trim with the Edition One package, can top $80,000. It may not be eligible for the $7,500 federal tax credit, but its tech smarts and long range make it a strong luxury EV proposition.
Why opt for the Audi Q6 e-tron?
Here is why the Q6 e-tron is one of the most complete luxury EVs:
- Top in Range: Up to 321 miles, beating many competitors.
- Rapid Charging: 270 kW for rapid turnover.
- Smooth, Quiet Comfort: The world is full of challenging roads.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: Including digital light signatures and an intuitive infotainment system.
However, it’s not without flaws. The interior quality isn’t always up to Audi’s historic standards, and the handling won’t feel as sporty as you might like compared with rivals such as the Porsche Macan EV. Fans who care more about comfort, technology, and range than truly dynamic driving will find the Q6 e-tron a top choice.
What Do Reviewers Say?
Critics across the board praise the Q6 e-tron’s range, charging speed and smooth ride. PCMag called it the Editors’ Choice for midsize luxury SUVs, praising its “sharp exterior, tasteful interior and cutting-edge tech.
Car and Driver extolled its “calm and composed ride,” while MotorTrend wrote that it is a “competent, balanced EV” that drives much like an Audi should. But some, including Road & Track, found the Q4 e-tron less thrilling than the Macan EV, and Business Car highlighted the slightly cheap interiors of well-worn test cars.
Final Thoughts
So for luxury SUV buyers who are switching to electric from gas, the 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron should be an attractive option. It is a stylistic, technological, and practical marvel, with excellent range and charging performance that place it at the top of its class.
It won’t set the Pantone of driving enthusiasts’ hearts on fire, but in its pursuit of comfort, efficiency and palatability, it fits neatly with Audi’s philosophy of “crushing competency.” If you’re in the market for a high-end EV that gets the mix of novelty and routine just right, the Q6 e-tron ought to be on your shortlist.
For further pricing details and availability, check out Audi’s official site or see reviews on reputable automotive sites such as Car and Driver, MotorTrend and PCMag.
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