Audi Q6 and SQ6 e-tron 2025: A new chapter for Audi's electric SUVs
Bilbao, Spain - The Q6 and SQ6 e-tron mark the start of a new chapter for Audi's electrically-powered SUV range. Built on the new PPE (Premium Platform Electric) developed jointly with Porsche, the Q6 and its more powerful SQ6 variant are close cousins to the Macan EV recently launched by the Stuttgart-based brand. After a first contact at the wheel of prototypes last year, Le Guide de l'auto travelled to the Basque Country (northern Spain) to get behind the wheel of the production models of the Audi Q6 and SQ6 e-tron 2025 SUVs. Their arrival in the country is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2024, with Sportback variants with rear-facing roofline to follow a little later.
The Q6 and SQ6 feature an 800-volt electrical architecture and a 100 kWh battery, with a usable capacity of 94.9 kWh. In the case of the Q6, range is estimated at between 470 and 500 kilometers. The SQ6 is faster, but will inevitably consume more energy. During our test drive of the SQ6 e-tron, the on-board computer indicated a range of 400 kilometers with a 99% charged battery. The Q6 e-tron's powertrain, comprising a permanent magnet motor at the rear and an induction motor at the front, develops 382 hp and 395 lb-ft. This enables it to reach 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. For the SQ6 e-tron, power and torque figures are 510 hp and 605 lb-ft respectively, while 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in just 4.3 seconds. In both cases, the battery can be recharged at a maximum rate of 270 kW at a fast-charging station, taking it from 10% to 80% charge in 21 minutes under ideal conditions. On a conventional Level 2 terminal, recharging takes place with a maximum current of 11 kW.
Silence, we're driving!
Behind the wheel, you'll be impressed by the cabin's quiet ride. This is partly due to the fact that the electric motors are oil-cooled to keep them at optimum temperature, a cooling system that also contributes to soundproofing. Audi will market two other versions of the Q6, one with a single motor and the other with a lower-capacity battery, but neither will be offered in Canada. We do know, however, that engineers are currently working on an RS version of the Q6 e-tron, which will be unveiled soon, and it's a safe bet that this steroid-fueled variant, with its 613 hp engine and 0-100 km/h time of 3.3 seconds, will be available here in the near future.
Comfortable and dynamic
As with all Audi vehicles, the Q6 and SQ6 feature a range of driving modes. The calibrations associated with Balanced and Comfort modes result in a softer, air-suspended ride and lighter steering. For firmer steering and higher dynamics, Dynamic mode is the way to go, especially as the rear engine is then more strongly solicited, giving these electric SUVs a more playful temperament. Alloy wheels on the Q6 range from 18 to 21 inches, and on the SQ6 from 20 to 21 inches.
The SQ6 stands out for its asymmetrical tire fitment, with the rear tires wider than the fronts to prioritize dynamics. As with all electric vehicles, regenerative braking is part of the program, and that of the Q6 and SQ6 is particularly well-calibrated, with almost imperceptible transitions between regenerative and conventional braking. Kinetic energy regeneration can be set at several levels, and the Q6 and SQ6 also feature a single-pedal driving mode, activated by selecting "B" mode via the gear selector on the center console.
A spacious interior
The size of the Q6 and SQ6 means that these electric vehicles fall into the midsize category. Length is 4,771 mm, width 1,993 mm and height 1,648 mm. Since the motorization is electric and the battery is located on the floor, the wheelbase is very long, at 2,899 millimeters, and the overhangs are very short. This wheelbase length means that the Q6 and SQ6 cabins are very spacious, and passengers in both rows can count on ample headroom. On board, one of the innovations of the Q6 and SQ6 is immediately apparent: the curved digital panel with two screens. The first measures 11.9 inches and is used to display the instrumentation. The second is a 14.5-inch touchscreen that interfaces with the infotainment system. There's also the option of a third 10.9-inch screen, located in front of the passenger, for viewing content without distracting the driver.
If the buyer selects the head-up display with augmented reality, he or she will be able to read speed information, road signs and assistance and navigation icons on the inside surface of the windscreen. These virtual images, with moving arrows indicating the direction to follow, are of high graphic quality and make navigation very simple. Audi offers an optional Bang & Olufsen audio system with 3D sound, featuring an 830-watt amplifier and 22 speakers, four of which are integrated into the front seat headrests. Like the brand's latest vehicles, the Q6 and SQ6 are also equipped with configurable active visual signatures, with the purchaser able to choose from eight animations for the headlamp units and lights via the telematics system or MyAudi application, thus personalizing the styling of their vehicle.
The addition of the Q6 and SQ6 to the Q4, Q8 and SQ8 enables the automaker to offer electrically-powered SUVs in three market segments: compact, mid-size and full-size, making up a complete range.
