Audi Q6 eTron Review
The Audi Q6 e-tron, part of Audi’s electric vehicle lineup, boasts a 94.9kWh battery, impressive performance, and advanced features.
Introduction and Model History
Introducing the Audi Q6, a groundbreaking addition to Audi's electric vehicle lineup, exclusively available as the Q6 e-tron. This innovative model utilises the new PPE ‘Premium Platform Electric’ and boasts a lithium-ion battery with a usable capacity of 94.9kWh. The entry-level single motor variant offers 302bhp and a WLTP combined range of up to 392 miles. For those seeking more power, the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive Q6 quattro delivers 382bhp and a range of up to 381 miles.
Additionally, the high-performance 510bhp SQ6 e-tron quattro will join the lineup at a later stage, albeit with a premium price tag of £92,950. While it competes with the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, the Q6 stands out for its roomier interior, measuring 4.8m in length and 2.2m in width, positioning it against electric SUVs like the Porsche Macan, BMW iX3, and Polestar 4.
Range, Battery and Charging
The Q6 e-tron is equipped with a substantial 94.9kWh usable lithium-ion NMC battery (100kWh total), providing a range of up to 392 miles for the most efficient models. This range is impressive, especially when compared to the BMW iX3, which offers only 280 miles. However, real-world range assessments are pending further testing in the UK, though initial estimates suggest the dual-motor Q6 e-tron Sport quattro could achieve between 280 and 340 miles.
Charging capabilities are exceptional, with an 800V system enabling 270kW fast charging. This allows for a 10-80% charge in just over 20 minutes using a 350kW ultra-rapid charger, or a top-up of 158 miles in merely ten minutes under optimal conditions. The Q6 e-tron features dual charging ports: a CCS and Type 2 socket on one front wing, and an additional Type 2 socket on the other side, facilitating convenient home or slower AC charging.
Practicality and Boot Space
The Q6 e-tron impresses with its practicality, offering 526 litres of boot space and an additional 64 litres in the front 'frunk'. Although it lags behind the Model Y and Skoda Enyaq, it surpasses the BMW iX3 and Mercedes EQE SUV in terms of storage capacity. Unlike some larger rivals like the Kia EV9, the Q6 does not offer a seven-seat option but remains spacious and comfortable.
The rear seats are equally accommodating, featuring charging ports, a central armrest, and high-quality soft-touch materials, ensuring a premium feel for passengers.
Interior, Design/Styling and Technology
The Q6 e-tron’s interior introduces a new dash design and screen setup, which Audi describes as ‘human-centric’. The dashboard flows around the driver, highlighted by an ambient light strip that spans the doors and dashboard.
The standout features are the new Audi MMI panoramic display and the passenger screen. The driver’s 11.9-inch readout and 14.5-inch curved touchscreen create a 'digital stage' with advanced OLED technology for vibrant colours and sharp graphics. Front passengers also benefit from their own screen for navigation, entertainment, and more, equipped with an Active Privacy Mode to avoid distracting the driver.
The vehicle supports over-the-air updates and features an AI-powered voice control system that adapts to the user’s accent and commands for improved accuracy.
The entry-level Q6 e-tron Sport is well-equipped with 19-inch alloys, LED lights, a 360-degree parking camera, leatherette upholstery, electric lumbar adjustment for the front seats, and heated seats both front and rear. It also includes three-zone climate control for customised rear passenger comfort. The S Line variant adds style enhancements such as 20-inch wheels and privacy glass, while the Edition 1 includes additional luxury features like a massage function for the front seats, sports suspension, and Matrix LED headlights.
Motors, Performance and Handling
The quattro version of the Q6 e-tron features dual motors for all-wheel drive, producing a combined 375bhp. A temporary boost of 20bhp aids in overtaking, resulting in a 0-62mph time of 5.9 seconds. For those seeking even quicker acceleration, the SQ6 e-tron achieves the same in 4.3 seconds.
Despite the impressive performance of the dual-motor version, the rear-wheel-drive, single motor Q6 e-tron offers excellent value with 302bhp and a 0-62mph time of 6.7 seconds, making it a compelling option for many buyers.
The Q6 e-tron also excels in towing capabilities, able to pull a braked trailer up to 2,000kg, with its long range and rapid charging enhancing its practicality for long-distance towing.
Running Costs and Pricing
Starting prices for the Audi Q6 e-tron are £62,645 for the single motor Sport variant and £68,145 for the quattro Sport, with the SQ6 priced at £92,950. While the high price might steer some towards alternatives like the Audi e-tron GT, the Q6 e-tron’s generous standard equipment, impressive range, and fast charging capabilities make it a worthy consideration.
Finance options are favourable, with monthly PCP costs potentially falling below £600, given a substantial deposit or part-exchange vehicle worth over £10,000. Audi provides a standard three-year, 60,000-mile warranty for the car and an eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty for the battery.