Audi is expanding its electric vehicle lineup with the introduction of the Q6 Sportback e-tron and the SQ6 Sportback e-tron. These new models are sleek, stylish crossover coupes set to debut at the Paris Motor Show, and they’re expected to arrive in the United States by next spring or summer. The Q6 and SQ6 Sportback e-trons build upon the Q6 and SQ6 e-tron models, following a design approach similar to Audi's Q4 and Q8 Sportback e-trons. The Q6 Sportback e-tron’s exterior features a sloped windscreen that flows into a sportier roofline, along with a compact greenhouse and an angular rear window, giving the vehicle a streamlined and dynamic appearance.
Thanks to this design, the crossover coupes boast a lower drag coefficient of 0.26, surpassing the regular models by 0.02. This aerodynamic efficiency allows the Sportback to achieve a range of up to 656 kilometers (km) on a single charge. Though the Sportback variants share the same length and wheelbase as the standard models, they are up to 37 millimeters lower, contributing to their more athletic look.
Inside, Audi has equipped the Q6 Sportback e-tron with a high-tech cabin that features an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch infotainment system powered by Android Automotive OS. Additionally, customers can opt for an augmented reality head-up display and a 10.9-inch screen for the front passenger. The voice assistant, enhanced by ChatGPT, is capable of recognizing over 800 commands. Audi also offers a 20-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, including four speakers integrated into the front headrests, providing an immersive sound experience.
Sustainability is a key focus in the interior design, as the cabin incorporates eco-friendly materials with recycled elements. For instance, the roof lining, pillars, and sun visors are covered in Draft fabric, made from 100 percent recycled polyester. Additionally, customers can select other upholstery options crafted from recycled fabrics, such as Elastic Melange, which further emphasizes Audi's commitment to environmental responsibility.
While Sportback models are typically less practical than their traditional counterparts, the Q6 Sportback e-tron offers a decent amount of storage space. It features a 64-liter frunk (front trunk) and a cargo area that holds up to 511 liters, which expands to 1,373 liters when the rear seats are folded down.
The Q6 Sportback e-tron rides on Audi’s Premium Platform Electric, with the entry-level version powered by an 83 kWh battery and a rear motor producing 288 hp. This allows the crossover to reach 100 km/h in seven seconds and provides a range of up to 545 km. Customers who desire more power and range can opt for the Q6 Sportback e-tron performance, which features a larger 100 kWh battery and a motor generating up to 322 hp, accelerating to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds and offering a maximum range of 656 km.
For those looking for all-weather capability, the Q6 Sportback e-tron quattro offers a dual-motor setup with 383 hp. This model can accelerate to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and travel up to 636 km per charge. Audi’s top-tier model, the SQ6 Sportback e-tron, boasts 510 hp, reaching 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds and achieving a top speed of 230 km/h, 20 km/h faster than other models, with a range of 607 km.
When the battery needs charging, drivers can take advantage of the car’s fast-charging capability, with options for 225 kW, 260 kW, and 270 kW DC fast charging, which allow a 10% to 80% recharge in just 22 minutes. Prices start at €65,900 in Germany and £62,475 in the UK, with U.S. pricing to be announced closer to the launch date.