Audi, long known for its refined and understated premium vehicles, is making a significant shift in its electric strategy. The new Q6 e-tron marks a departure from simply adapting existing models for electric power, ushering in a fresh design philosophy built upon a dedicated electric platform.
A New Foundation: The Premium Platform Electric (PPE)
The Q6 e-tron Performance is the first Audi to be built on the sophisticated Premium Platform Electric (PPE). This advanced ‘skateboard’ architecture is co-developed with Porsche and also underpins the new Porsche Macan EV, promising cutting-edge electric vehicle technology and performance.
Real-World Range and Efficiency
Having spent two weeks with the Q6 e-tron Performance, including extensive use as a city family vehicle and a road trip down the south coast of New South Wales, its real-world capabilities were put to the test. Audi claims an impressive WLTP range of 641km for this model. While the exact claimed figure was not met during my testing, the vehicle consistently delivered over 500km of range under typical usage conditions, factoring in air conditioning, multiple passengers, and highway driving.
During highway driving, the energy consumption averaged around 20kWh/100km, while city driving saw this figure drop to approximately 18kWh/100km. While these figures may not set new benchmarks for efficiency in the electric vehicle market, they are entirely respectable for a luxury family SUV of this size and capability.
Charging Speed and 800-Volt Architecture
A key technological highlight of the Q6 e-tron is its 800-volt electrical architecture. This advanced system enables the Performance model to accept charging speeds of up to 260kW. This translates to a remarkable charging experience, with the battery able to be replenished from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in just 21 minutes at a compatible fast-charging station. This rapid charging capability positions the Q6 e-tron as a practical choice for long journeys, akin to a high-tech device with an exceptionally fast charging capability.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
In an era where many electric family cars boast supercar-rivalling acceleration, the Q6 e-tron Performance offers a more tempered, yet still potent, sprint. The ‘quattro’ all-wheel-drive version achieves 0-100km/h in 5.9 seconds, while the Performance model, which ditches the front motor to save weight and enhance efficiency, completes the sprint in 6.6 seconds. This acceleration feels refined and composed, contributing to a remarkably hushed cabin environment.
The Q6 e-tron Performance prioritizes a smooth and dignified driving experience. The reduction in motor count for the Performance variant contributes to its focus on range and everyday usability, making it more than capable for extended trips. The composure and quietness of the ride were particularly appreciated during longer journeys, offering a serene cabin atmosphere.
Interior Design and Technology
The interior of the Q6 e-tron is designed to be a digital sanctuary. Central to the cabin is the ‘Digital Stage,’ a sweeping curved display spanning the width of the dashboard. This includes a 10.9-inch passenger display, offering occupants dedicated entertainment options or access to navigation and travel information, reminiscent of an airplane’s in-flight entertainment system.
A unique feature is the ‘digital curtain’ function for the passenger screen, which can obscure the display from the driver’s view, ensuring privacy. This offers a dual perspective: the optimism of a dedicated passenger screen for uninterrupted enjoyment, and the pragmatism of acknowledging the modern reliance on personal screens during travel.
The driver benefits from an Augmented Reality Head-Up Display (AR HUD) that projects navigation prompts, such as turning arrows, directly onto the windscreen in the driver’s line of sight.
Despite the advanced technology, the overall cabin ambiance exudes a premium feel, with high-quality materials and tactile surfaces befitting a six-figure Audi. However, a minor point of critique lies with the indicator stalks, which feel less substantial and premium than the rest of the interior, seemingly sourced from a more basic model in the Volkswagen Group parts bin.
User Interface and Infotainment
In a deliberate effort to assess the native system, I opted to forgo the immediate familiarity of Apple CarPlay. To my surprise, Audi’s integrated infotainment system proved to be exceptionally capable. The native software is responsive, visually crisp, and intuitive, making it genuinely unnecessary to default to external smartphone integration for essential functions like navigation.
The system’s performance and ease of use represent a positive step forward, making the car’s built-in technology a genuinely viable and enjoyable option for everyday use.
Practicality and Luggage Space
The Q6 e-tron offers a practical boot space with 526 litres of capacity. This volume proved sufficient for accommodating a significant amount of luggage, including weekend bags, beach equipment, and various other essentials for a family outing.
Signature Lighting Technology
One of the most distinctive features of the Q6 e-tron is its advanced lighting system. It incorporates world-first active digital signatures, allowing owners to choose from eight different ‘expressions’ for the front and rear LED lights. While a clever technological showcase, it is likely that most owners will select a preferred lighting signature and retain it, rather than frequently changing it.
Value Proposition in the EV Market
While classifying any vehicle with a six-figure price tag as ‘good value’ requires careful consideration, the Audi Q6 e-tron Performance presents a compelling financial argument within the Australian electric vehicle landscape. Priced from $115,500, it notably undercuts larger electric SUVs such as the Kia EV9 and Hyundai IONIQ 9.
Furthermore, the Q6 e-tron shares its advanced PPE architecture with the significantly more expensive electric Porsche Macan. This means buyers opting for the Audi gain access to the same cutting-edge 800-volt architecture, 260kW ultra-rapid charging, and sophisticated battery management systems, but at a considerably lower price point. In essence, the Q6 e-tron offers a highly competitive package, potentially representing one of the most sensible choices in the premium electric family SUV segment.