Advertisement

Audi reveals Sportback variants of their Q6 e-tron and SQ6 e-tron SUV for 2025

At the time of writing, Audi offers no less than four electric vehicles in its portfolio, with three of them being crossovers of varying sizes. The Q4 and Q8 e-tron models are available in a more traditional boxy design or the swoopy coupe style that trades practicality for a more fashionable approach. When the Q6 e-tron debuted to slot in between the two, the Sportback version present on its siblings was omitted. That is no longer the case, as Audi has just announced the arrival of the Q6 Sportback e-tron.

Related: All the cars being discontinued for 2025: Here’s what we’ll miss

The Q6 Sportback is mechanically identical to the Q6

2025 Audi SQ6 Sportback e-tron exterior<p>Audi</p>
2025 Audi SQ6 Sportback e-tron exterior

Audi

Let’s start with what the Q6, SQ6, and Sportback e-tron have in common. No matter how different they appear on the surface, every Q6 e-tron is powered by a 100-kilowatt-hour battery pack (of which 94.4 kWh is usable) as standard that propels two electric motors, one on each axle. This supplies the Quattro all-wheel-drive system through a one-speed transmission.

ADVERTISEMENT

At the very least, the Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron makes 422 hp and 456 hp at its peak. The SQ6 Sportback e-tron makes 483 hp, with up to 509 peak hp. The top speeds are 130 and 143 mph, respectively.

<p>2025 Audi SQ6 Sportback e-tron exterior</p>

2025 Audi SQ6 Sportback e-tron exterior

View the 12 images of this gallery on the original article

Although EPA numbers have not been finalized, Audi expects the Sportback to “be similar to that of the Q6 e-tron Quattro, at around 300 miles.” The 800-volt electrical architecture allows for DC fast charging, with speeds up to 270 kilowatts. In ideal conditions, it should take approximately 21 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 percent.

Putting a greater emphasis on sport, the Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron has tweaked suspension and components to enliven its driving dynamics. With the trailing arms placed in front of the tie rods, this enables greater steering feedback, which should pair well with the Quattro all-wheel-drive system that’s actually rear-biased.

Related: Toyota’s 4Runner TRD Surf Concept takes SEMA to the beach

Any present changes are merely skin-deep

2025 Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron exterior<p>Audi</p>
2025 Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron exterior

Audi

The 2025 Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron shares similar dimensions to its boxier counterparts. The biggest difference lies in the roof, which is 1.4 inches shorter from the A-pillar before sloping to the rear. To make up for any diminished headroom, the wheelbase stretches roughly half an inch to better accommodate rear passengers. Otherwise, it maintains the same length and width as the non-Sportback variants. Like the SUV, the Sportback employs Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) to maintain ride comfort and keep the height level neutral.

Beyond that, your eyes won’t deceive you if you try to look for differences in the cabin. Having so much in common with the Q6 e-tron SUV and sharing many of the same features means the interior of the Sportback is virtually identical.

Tech Showcase

<em>2025 Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron interior</em><p>Audi</p>
2025 Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron interior

Audi

Much like other Audi models, the 2025 Q6 Sportback e-tron features a new digital display and user interface. The latest virtual cockpit conveys an 11.9-inch screen behind the wheel and a 14.5-inch center touchscreen incorporates the latest version of Audi’s MMI system. In addition, the latest iteration of the augmented reality head-up display monitors changes in the environment and relays information such as speed, traffic signs, and navigation icons back to the driver.

To make the vehicle even more tailored to your liking, the Sportback presents up to eight light signatures from daytime running lights thanks to the Matrix-design LED headlamps and OLED rear lights. For audiophiles, an available Bang & Olufsen Premium sound system is on hand to deliver 830 watts through 20 speakers.

Final thoughts

Pricing information has not yet been announced, however, the regular Q6 e-tron SUV starts at $65,095 including destination charges. Considering the lineup, expect the Q6 Sportback e-tron to command a small premium. Production is set to begin in 2025.

If you can’t wait and can skip the fashionable roofline, the more practical Audi Q6 e-Tron SUV will arrive in dealerships soon.

Related: Volkswagen’s China crisis: Can the German giant survive the EV price war?