Introducing the QA6 Sportback e-tron Models from Audi
Introducing the Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron: A Balance of Performance, Range, and Premium Technology
Audi has unveiled its latest electric offering, the Q6 Sportback e-tron quattro, at the Paris Motor Show 2024. This new electric model promises a blend of performance, range, and premium technology, encapsulated in a sleek utility-oriented EV package.
The Q6 Sportback e-tron comes equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, delivering up to 456 hp (Sport model) with launch control enabling 0-60 mph in about 4.9 seconds. The SQ6 variant boosts power to around 510 hp, promising similarly strong acceleration.
The vehicles use an 800V electrical architecture supporting fast charging at up to 270 kW, enabling rapid battery replenishment. The battery packs are liquid-cooled lithium-ion with capacities around 94 kWh, offering real-world ranges near 494 km (Sport model) and slightly less for the higher-performance SQ6 trim (about 445 km).
Design-wise, the Sportback e-tron blends a sleek coupé-like silhouette with premium touches. It features 19-inch wheels (upgradable to 20-inch on S line and 21-inch on Edition 1), matrix LED headlights available on higher trims, and air suspension with adaptive damping that lowers the vehicle at speed for aerodynamic efficiency and a smooth ride.
Inside, a standout feature is the curved MMI panoramic digital display combining an 11.9-inch driver display with a 14.5-inch touchscreen central display, plus an optional 10.9-inch passenger display that allows co-passengers to control media and apps. An augmented reality (AR) head-up display is available for enhanced navigation cues projected onto the windshield. The SQ6 and upper trims add luxury touches like microfibre suede/leather seats with diamond stitching, a 10.9-inch passenger screen, and Audi’s synthesized ‘e-tron sports sound’ to enhance driving engagement.
Technology includes adaptive air suspension with controlled damping for load leveling and ride comfort, four regeneration modes including one-pedal driving, and an available 830-watt Bang & Olufsen premium audio system with 20 speakers (SQ6). Advanced driver aids bundled in prestige packages such as adaptive cruise control, 360° cameras, and cabin pre-conditioning are also included.
Pricing in the UK starts at around £60,000 for the base Sport model, with mid-spec S line at about £63,000, Edition 1 at approximately £68,000, and the top SQ6 e-tron around £94,000. In the US, the SQ6 base price is approximately $74,200, rising to over $83,000 with options.
The Q6 Sportback e-tron quattro's charging performance is impressive, with DC fast-charging at a rate of 270 kW, taking 21 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 percent under ideal conditions. It also boasts a high towing capacity of up to 4,400 lb, making it suitable for everyday use. The new passive Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) system in the Q6 Sportback e-tron makes it hug the road, providing greater ride comfort in certain driving situations.
The Q6 Sportback e-tron's optional augmented reality head-up display (AR HuD) provides essential information in a large, tilted image plane, enhancing the AR experience. Audi has significantly expanded its voice control options in the Q6 e-tron, with the new voice assistant recognizing over 800 voice commands. The Q6 Sportback e-tron quattro's exterior design accentuates its sporty character, while its interior is meticulously tailored to the occupants' needs.
The Q6 Sportback e-tron quattro offers up to eight digital light signatures for personalization in its Matrix design LED headlights and digital OLED rear lights 2.0. It includes a new display and user interface, featuring a Digital Stage with the Audi MMI panoramic display and the MMI passenger display. The Q6 e-tron lineup uses Android Automotive OS for the first time in Audi vehicles, coming with the latest Audi connect services and popular apps such as YouTube.
The Q6 Sportback e-tron will arrive in the US market in 2025, with more information regarding pricing and equipment available closer to the on-sale date.
- Audi's Q6 Sportback e-tron, introduced as a balance of performance, range, and premium technology, is now offered in the US market, set to arrive in 2025.
- Technology integrations in the Q6 Sportback e-tron include Android Automotive OS, Audi's voice assistant recognizing over 800 voice commands, and an optional augmented reality head-up display (AR HuD).
- The new electric model features advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control, 360° cameras, and cabin pre-conditioning, as well as enhancing features, such as Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) for a smoother ride.
- In the automotive industry, the Q6 Sportback e-tron follows Audi’s commitment to sustainable transportation by offering electric-vehicle options with impressive charging capabilities, such as fast charging at up to 270 kW.
