2025 Audi Q6 e-tron Seriously Ups Its EV Game

• Audi is moving into the next phase of its EV journey, starting with the Porsche-shared Premium Platform Electric architecture on the Q6 e-tron.

• Truly all-new for 2024, the Audi Q6 e-tron will feature as much as 388 miles of range while the SQ6 e-tron boasts 506 hp from its 100-kWh battery pack.

• Factored from European pricing, Audi says the base model Q6 e-tron will start around $81,000 while the SQ6 e-tron goes over $101,000.

Seldom does the term "all-new" really mean just that in the automotive world, but Audi is getting its own shining moment this week. Ahead of the New York International Auto Show and marking a new era in its electric legacy, the 2024 Audi Q6 e-tron is finally here—and in good form, too.

That's not to downplay the importance of previous and current Audi EVs. We're big fans of the Audi e-tron GT, but the Q6 e-tron represents a shift in Audi's approach to EVs. That's because the mid-size crossover is the first Audi to ride on its new Premium Platform Electric (PPE).

Shared with the incoming Porsche Macan EV, the PPE-based Audi joins its upscale sibling in launching a new portfolio of electric models across the Volkswagen group. Despite a shared platform, the Audi Q6 e-tron will be unique in its own right, starting with its dimensions.

With a 114.1-inch wheelbase and a 64.8-inch height, Audi says the primary focus of the Q6 e-tron is passenger comfort and accessibility. At a glance, the mid-size crossover does appear stretched and lower than its competitors, seemingly allowing for easier entrance for passengers of all ages and mobilities.

That makes up just one difference between the Q6 e-tron and Macan, but both models rely on the same 100-kWh battery and an 800-volt architecture. Even so, the powertrain performance is quite a bit different between the pair, with Audi quoting up to 506 hp on the SQ6 e-tron variety. Power figures for the base model start at 382 hp.

Charging speeds are clearly a higher priority for the executives in Ingolstadt. With a peak DC fast charging speed of 270 kW and a quoted 10%-80% charge time of 21 minutes, Audi says the longest-range version of the Q6 e-tron will go 388 miles on a single charge. By comparison, the SQ6 e-tron has a quoted range of 372 miles.

That range figure originates from the generous WLTP testing cycle, meaning the EPA figure will likely skew toward 330 miles, which is still an impressive number. But its charging speeds and power figures aren't what makes the battery underneath the Q6 e-tron so interesting. Rather, it's the combination of metals, built from an 8:1:1 ratio of nickel, cobalt, and manganese.

Audi claims that the enhanced battery technology is not only good for range but allows for a 30% higher energy density than previous generation batteries. Similarly, bank charging will also be possible on the new Q6 e-tron, dividing the 800-volt pack into two and charging the pieces separately to speed up the process.

Despite weighing over 5000 pounds, Audi remains committed to ensuring a sporty yet compliant ride is present on the Q6 e-tron. While this curb weight helps 95% of braking to be energy regenerating, Audi engineers also worked to fine-tune the suspension with the electric motors, harmonizing the components together.

For starters, Audi redesigned the front-end steering system, eliminating rubber bushings and bolting the mechanical steering components to the subframe. Passive damping will be standard on the Q6 e-tron, though adaptive air suspension will be available on the SQ6 e-tron for a tuneable feel. Both the tires and electric motors are installed in a staggered setup, too.

Specifically, Audi has included two differently sized electric motors at the front and rear, taking up 30% less space overall underneath the car. With an asynchronous motor on the front axle and a permanent-magnet-synchronous motor coupled to a single-speed gearbox out back, Audi says the torque split will be adjusted depending on the surface conditions and has a rearward bias.

At launch, both trim levels (Q6 e-tron and SQ6 e-tron) will be equipped with all-wheel drive, differing only in power figures, range, performance numbers, and price. Starting at $81,000 for the base model Q6 e-tron, pricing goes up to around $101,000 for the SQ6 e-tron (calculated from the European pricing), with deliveries set for summer 2024.

If these sticker prices are a bit too much, you'll be rewarded for a bit of patience, Audi says. That's because the company plans to release a more affordable, RWD version of the Q6 e-tron come 2025, equipped with an 83-kWh battery pack. Pricing and production specifics have yet to be revealed, but Audi says we can count on this model to arrive early next year.

Inside the Q6 e-tron, Audi focused on providing a soft yet modern experience. Employing soft-touch materials throughout the door and center console, Audi continues to rely on its glossy black piano-key material, which we could live without. Even so, the combination of an 11.9-inch digital cockpit and a 14.5-inch infotainment screen keeps the interior looking fresh.

Rounding out the Q6 e-tron announcement is Audi's first-of-its-kind production process. The electric motors will be built in Győr, Hungary while the final assembly will happen at Audi's Ingolstadt, Germany, plant, with both of these facilities being allegedly net carbon-neutral thanks to scrap steel and sustainable fabrics. Notably, this will be the first Audi EV built in Ingolstadt.

Should Audi consider scaling down this PPE platform for electric sedans? Please share your thoughts below.