Audi Q6 e-tron Review: Start of a New Wave
The Audi Q6 e-tron represents a pivotal moment in Audi's transformation towards electric mobility. It brings a freshness and newness that sets it apart from previous Audi models. Although its name suggests it sits between the Q4 e-tron and the Q8 e-tron, the Q6 e-tron is technically distinct, sharing more in common with the electric Porsche Macan than any other Audi.
At the heart of the Q6 e-tron is the PPE (Premium Platform Electric) platform, also used by the Macan EV. Unlike the Q8 e-tron, which is an ICE conversion, or the Q4 e-tron based on VW’s MEB platform, the PPE is a state-of-the-art, born-electric architecture. It features the latest software, super-efficient electric motors, an energy-dense battery, and an 800V architecture for faster charging and improved efficiency.
The Q6 e-tron is equipped with a 100kWh battery made up of 180 high-density prismatic cells packed into 12 modules, offering a class-leading range of 625km. This surpasses the Q8 e-tron's range, despite the latter's larger 114kWh battery. The Q6 e-tron's battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in under 21 minutes, and a 10-minute charge provides 255km of range, though these figures are academic in India due to the need for a 270kW charger.
The Q6 e-tron’s primary model will be a four-wheel drive, true to Audi's Quattro lineage. It features two state-of-the-art electric motors: a 140kW asynchronous motor on the front axle and a 280kW permanent-magnet synchronous motor on the rear. Combined, they produce 388hp (in launch control mode) and up to 516hp in the SQ6 e-tron variant.
Technical Innovations
Hairpin windings in the ASM to maximize current flow
Silicon carbide semiconductors in the pulse inverter
Dry sump and electric oil pump in the gearbox
Direct oil cooling of the electric motors
These innovations increase efficiency, and power density, and reduce the usage of rare-earth elements, lowering manufacturing costs and environmental impact.
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The Q6 e-tron boasts a new steering system, multi-link front and rear suspension, and optional adaptive air suspension. It is shorter than the Q8 e-tron by 130mm, but its 2,899mm wheelbase is only 29mm shorter. The long wheelbase and short overhangs give it a balanced proportion and sporty stance. The Matrix LED headlights and OLED tail-light combo can be personalized with eight different digital light signatures.
Inside, the Q6 e-tron features a new, feature-packed infotainment system powered by the latest software. It includes:
A massive, free-standing curved screen with an 11.9-inch instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch MMI touch display
An optional 10.9-inch MMI display for the front passenger
A vertical charging dock for mobile phones, designed to minimize driver distraction
The Q6 e-tron accelerates from 0-100kph in 5.9 seconds, delivering power smoothly and linearly. It offers a quiet and refined driving experience, with minimal motor whine, road, and wind noise. The adaptive air suspension and responsive steering enhance the driving dynamics, making it easy to handle on twisty roads.
The Q6 e-tron is expected to launch in India next year, followed by the SQ6 e-tron. Pricing is estimated at around Rs 85 lakh for the Q6 e-tron and over Rs 1 crore for the SQ6 e-tron. This model marks the beginning of a new wave of Audis on the PPE platform, promising exciting times ahead for the brand.
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