Audi’s electric revolution continues as the company has unveiled the all-new Q6 and SQ6 e-trons.
Set to be launched later this year, the model slots above the Q4 and features a fully enclosed Singleframe grille that is flanked by split lighting units. Speaking of which, the crossover has an active digital light signature for both the daytime running lights and taillights.
This enables their lighting signature to change and even communicate with other road users. As part of this effort, there’s a communication light that is designed to warn other motorists about accidents and disabled vehicles. Audi said it “displays a specific static taillight signature with integrated warning symbols.”
Putting the lights aside, the model has an upscale design that blends soft curves with muscular accents. We can also see a rakish windscreen that flows into a gently sloping roof. They’re joined by a pronounced D-pillar and bulky side skirts.
The model rides on 18-inch wheels, while the S line variant has larger 19-inchers. Customers can also get a black pro styling package, which adds black accents, dark badging and window trim, and additional body color elements. The SQ6 e-tron goes in a different direction as it has faux aluminum accents and 20-inch wheels that are backed up by black brake calipers.
In terms of size, the model measures 187.8 inches (4,771 mm) long, 78.5 inches (1,993 mm) wide, and 64.9 inches (1,648 mm) tall with a wheelbase that spans 114.1 inches (2,899 mm). To put those numbers into perspective, the Q6 is 7.1 inches (180 mm) longer than the Q4 and has an extra 5.4 inches (137 mm) between the wheels.
A High-Tech Interior With A Front Passenger Display
Audi showcased the Q6’s cabin at last year’s Munich Motor Show, so there aren’t many surprises. That being said, the crossover has a panoramic display that consists of an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch infotainment system. The latter is based on Android Automotive and features an app store as well as a digital assistant that is represented by an avatar.
Customers can also get an augmented reality head-up display and a 10.9-inch front passenger display. The latter has shutter technology, which enables the passenger to watch movies without distracting the driver.
Other highlights include an interaction light bar, a 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, and a spacious cargo compartment. The latter holds 18.6 cubic feet (526 liters) of luggage, but that can be increased to 54 cubic feet (1,529 liters) by folding the rear seats down. If that’s not enough, the frunk has a capacity of 2.3 cubic feet (64 liters).
An assortment of options will be available including birch and sweetgum wood trim as well as matte brushed aluminum. It’s also worth noting the S line variant has elastic melange, which is made from 100 percent recycled polyester.
Two Powertrains At Launch, More Inbound
The Q6 e-tron rides on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) and features a newly developed lithium-ion battery that has twelve modules, 180 prismatic cells, and a gross capacity of 100 kWh. This gives the model a range of up to 388 miles (625 km), although the EPA figure is said to be in excess of 300 miles (483 km).
In the United States, the Q6 e-tron will produce 422 hp (315 kW / 428 PS). That figure climbs to 456 hp (340 kW / 462 PS) with launch control and this enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-60 mph (96 km/h) in approximately five seconds. If drivers keep their foot planted, the model will eventually top out at 130 mph (210 km/h).
The international variant is slightly less impressive as it’s rated at 382 hp (285 kW / 387 PS). This results in a slower 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 5.9 seconds, but the top speed remains unchanged.
Lastly, the SQ6 e-tron has 483 hp (360 kW / 489 PS) and 510 hp (380 kW / 517 PS) with launch control. Thanks to the extra oomph, the dash to 60 mph (96 km/h) takes around 4.2 seconds while the top speed climbs to 143 mph (230 km/h).
Additional variants will follow later on including a Sportback and two rear-wheel drive models. Little is known about the latter, but one will be focused on efficiency and range while the other will serve as an entry-level model.
When the battery is low, drivers will be thankful for the 270 kW DC fast charging capability. It enables the model to get up to 158 miles (255 km) of range with a ten minute charge. If you’re not in a rush, the battery can go from 10-80% in around 21 minutes.
The Q6 e-tron will be launched in the third quarter and German pricing starts at €74,700. Deliveries of the SQ6 e-tron will occur at the same time, although that particular model will set you back €93,800.