• Auto123 conducts a first test of the new Audi Q6 e-tron 2025
San Sebastian, Spain – Audi promises to offer an electric model in every major automotive segment by 2027, those it defines as the core of the industry. On the way to this goal, it invited us to discover its third all-electric SUV, the Q6 e-tron (as well as the SQ6 e-tron performance variant).
The German brand’s other two electric SUVs have been around since 2019 and 2022, respectively. In the case of the former, it debuted simply as the e-tron, before being renamed the Q8 e-tron last year, following an update. In the latter, the company came to offer the Q4 as an entry-level solution, a model that aims to be the more chic counterpart to the Volkswagen ID.4.
The Q6 e-tron completes the loop, allowing Audi to cover all needs on the utility side.
Audi Q6 e-tron 2025: what’s new?
Everything, or almost, because it should be noted that this vehicle was developed jointly with Porsche, which arrives at the same time as the Macan EV. This is important because the Q6 e-tron becomes Audi’s first electric model to be based on the new PPE (Premium Platform Electric) platform. The latter, very flexible, will serve several different models, while allowing designers to customize their characteristics. The structure also represents the next technological step for Audi, as it offers more possibilities, all on the way to an all-electric family.
The model also benefits from a new electronic architecture, called E3 1.2 (End to End Electronic Architecture) which will allow, among other things, communication between vehicles. It will serve as a basis for future innovations planned by the brand.
Besides, obviously, everything this vehicle uses is practically new, including a new lithium-ion battery. I’ll come back to that.
Design du Audi Q6 e-tron 2025 – 8.0/10
Aesthetically, Audi introduces an evolutionary language for its e-tron signature, but it is recognizable by moons. Compared to the Q4 e-tron and Q8 e-tron, the front is a little more sculpted, and with a model dressed in white, for example, the contrast is more remarkable. It is a little busy and we noticed that it pleased some, but not others. A little always the case with tastes.
From the side and from the rear, it is much more harmonious and homogeneous. The shoulder, at the height of the rear wheels, adds a little something sporty to the design.
Note that the Q6 e-tron will be able to benefit from 18 to 20-inch rims, while for the SQ6 e-tron variant, which we also tested, this will be limited to 20 or 21 inches.
Inside
Without too many surprises, we discover a high-quality interior with this Q6 e-tron, the norm at Audi. The presentation is dominated by a huge screen that actually combines two surfaces; one is 11.9 inches for information related to driving, the other is 14.5 inches for the menus and functions of the multimedia system. Then, a third screen is even available in front of the passenger seat, for entertainment or anything else desired, such as the navigation display. Note that from the driver’s position, it seems closed.
We could talk about a fourth screen with the head-up display that appears on the windshield, especially since the latter can take advantage of augmented reality. During our test, it was reassuring to have an arrow that moved as needed to indicate which direction our next maneuver would be.
There are obviously a lot of touch buttons, which will take some getting used to. On the console, however, we find the essentials, including a semi-touch button to switch the driving modes where you want.
Space is generous, both in the front and in the back, since the design allows for a very long wheelbase, with short overhangs. Occupants in the second row will feel like they are in a much larger vehicle. That said, the trunk volume is not overly generous.
Interestingly, with the optional Bang & Olufsen stereo, you get 22 speakers, four of which are integrated into the two front headrests. Navigation information is relayed to the driver only, so other occupants aren’t constantly disturbed by the system’s interventions. We’ve seen this elsewhere, but it’s a surprisingly practical and welcome touch.
Some recycled materials have been used, and we also note that the steering wheel has a unique shape, with a flat bottom, but also a flattened top, which only provides better all-round visibility.
Technologie du Audi Q6 e-tron 2025 – 9.5/10
Here, we could go on at length, because the manufacturer’s press release never stops praising the merits of this model on the technological level. It is true that what is advanced is impressive, especially when we look to the future.
For example, the front lighting uses six OLED (organic light-emitting diode) panels with 360 segments. The whole thing generates a signature that is updated every 10 milliseconds. The driver can choose between eight visual signatures for the headlights and lights.
But that’s not what’s most impressive. The light signature of the lights, among other things, will be able to warn other road users of the locations of accidents and breakdowns or any other emergency message with integrated symbols. Welcome to the future.
On board, we of course benefit from all the possible connectivity, powered with this Q6 e-tron by Android. Audi explains that its assistant is supported by artificial intelligence and that it will be able to learn from your habits in order to better adapt to them.
Engine of the Audi Q6 e-tron 2025 – 9.0/10
The Q6 e-tron is equipped with a 100 kWh lithium-ion battery, of which 94.9 are usable. There is a motor at the front (asynchronous) and one at the rear (permanent magnet). Power is rated at 382 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque with the Q6 e-tron version, 510 horsepower and 605 lb-ft of torque with the SQ6 e-tron variant. Audi promises a time of 5.9 seconds for 0-100 km/h with the first, 4.3 seconds with the second.
An RS Q6 e-tron variant is reportedly in the works, for even more performance. You might hear about a version with a smaller battery, as well as a rear-wheel drive model. It will exist, but not in our market. What we will get, however, is a Q6 e-tron Sportback, a little later.
Driving the 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron – 8.0/10
As with any electric model, we are entitled to accelerations that are sometimes strong (Q6), sometimes violent (SQ6), but always linear. The weight of the vehicle is felt, of course, the negative element with current electric vehicles. However, the chassis manages things in such a way that it is not too handicapping. Moreover, to make the driving of this model smoother, easier and more fluid, Audi has taken unconventional approaches. For example, the control arms have been moved in front of the suspension arms, to favor the positioning of the battery, improving the behavior in the process.
The steering rack is now attached to the subframe, which improves driving dynamics. The new front axle also improves steering behavior, for more agile performance, as Audi promises.
I won’t tell you that this Q6 e-tron is a sporty beast, but considering the size and weight, it is easy to drive and can be pushed on winding roads.
Consumption
Since the model has not yet arrived in our country, which should happen before the end of the year, the data shared by Audi was obtained via the European WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) cycle, which is more generous than ours, that of the American EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).
For example, combined consumption ratings of less than 20 kWh per 100 km are announced. This will all be verified and confirmed during subsequent tests.
The same goes for autonomy. On the more generous cycle, up to 625 km of freedom is announced. Knowing that we have to subtract about 22% to 25% from this number to obtain the EPA figures, that could give us something around 500 km for the Q6 e-tron variant, a little less for the SQ6.
Where things are the same is with charging. Thanks to an 800-volt architecture, the capacity is at 270 kW. This will allow the level to go from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes. In 10 minutes on a fast terminal, we will find around 200 km. And, interestingly, if a charging station works with 400-volt technology, the Q6 e-tron will see its 800-volt battery automatically divide into two batteries of the same voltage, which can then be recharged in parallel with a maximum power of 135 kW. Depending on the state of charge, the two halves of the battery will first be put to the same level, then charged simultaneously.
At home, on a level 2 terminal, the power goes up to 11 kW.
2025 Audi Q6 e-tron and SQ6 e-tron prices announced
This is coming in the case of Canadian models.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron
Does the Audi Q6 e-tron look a lot like the Porsche Macan EV?
Both obviously benefit from the same platform, but Audi has managed to preserve the brand’s DNA. But yes, there are similarities.
Will the Q6 really show up before the end of the year?
Everything suggests that yes. We have already seen Audi models take more than a year to reach us after being presented in Europe. This time, the message was clear: Europe first, North America second.
Where will the Q6 e-tron be manufactured?
At the Audi plant in Ingolstadt, Germany. This will be the brand’s first electric model assembled there.
The final word
Audi comes to the market with a solid product; we expected nothing less. Obviously, the bill will be steep, but the buyer who already has this vehicle in his sights knows it very well and is already eager to get his hands on his model. And he will not be disappointed.
The competition of the Audi Q6 e-tron 2025
- – BMW iX
- – Cadillac Lyriq
- – Genesis GV70 Electrified
- – Mercedes-Benz EQE VUS
- – Porsche Macan EV
- – Tesla Model Y / X
- – Volvo EX90
Original content from auto123.
