Audi has committed to becoming an EV-only brand from 2033, and will only introduce electric models after 2026. But jumping ahead of that deadline is the Q6 e-tron, captured here while testing in Sweden, which will hit the road before the end of 2024.
We’ve caught the Q6 e-tron during development a few times, but mostly in upright SUV form. This is only the second time we’ve spied its Sportback brother, which is identical apart from that sportier rear bodywork. Both cars feature a blanked-off traditional Audi grille colored silver, just like the one seen on its Q4 e-tron little brother that launched last year. But the Q6 will switch to a fashionable split-light arrangement previewed by the A6 e-tron concept that places the real headlights in a dark recess below the slim DRLs that get to enjoy all the admiring looks.
Based on experience with the Q4 e-tron, the Q6 e-tron Sportback is likely to offer slightly less rear headroom than the regular version, but not so much less that it becomes a problem. Meanwhile, superior aerodynamics might help it eke out a few extra miles from a full charge, and the cargo area below the parcel shelf could end up even bigger on the Sportback, again based on what Audi achieved with the Q4 Sportback.
Inside, we’re expecting to see a more minimalist cabin than we’re used to getting from Audi, one that features fewer physical buttons and a four-spoke steering wheel with Audi’s new, simpler, four-ring logo.
Related: 2024 Audi A6 E-Tron Tackles The Nurburgring As Company’s Electric Vehicle Push Continues
Neither Q6 is related to the combustion-powered Q6 SUV offered in China. Instead, the Q6 e-tron rides on the same PPE electric platform used by its sister car, the upcoming Porsche Macan EV. That’s the Macan EV whose launch was recently delayed from 2023 to 2024 due to software problems, and it seems reasonable to speculate that the Q6 could be hit by the same delays.
Though there will inevitably be some crossover between the Audi and Porsche in terms of power outputs, we’re expecting the Macan to maintain the upper hand to preserve its brand image. Porsche has confirmed that the Macan will produce up to 603 hp (450 kW / 611 PS) and 1,000 Nm (738 lb-ft) of torque from dual electric motors, and an RS-badged Q6 could get something approaching those numbers.
Most models though will deliver far less: the Audi A6 e-tron wagon concept produced 470 hp (350 kW / 476 PS) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque, but the Q6 range might also make use of the PPE’s platform ability to work with single, rear-motor configurations.
