Audi previews Q6 e-tron range in Sydney

BY PETER BARNWELL | 7th Nov 2024

AUDI Australia continues its electrification program with the arrival mid next year of the Q6 e-tron and SQ6 e-tron mid-size SUVs in the “Goldilocks segment”; to be followed later by Sportback versions of both and a host of other new models across the year.

The Q6 e-tron is Audi’s first on the BEV-dedicated Premium Platform Electric (PPE) platform that was co-developed with Porsche and underpins the new Macan E with which the Audi Q6 and SQ6 e-trons have some commonality.

Local pricing starts with the Q6 Performance RWD model from $115,500 moving to the Q6 quattro (AWD) from $122,500 and the SQ6 from $151,400 (all excluding on-road costs).

More detailed specification will be available at a later date, but in the meantime Audi Australia has airfreighted RHD examples of the new BEV Down Under for evaluation, clinics, and EV Show purposes.

The Q6 will likely compete with the Genesis GV70 E, Lexus RZ 450e, Tesla Model Y, Mercedes-Benz EQC, Polestars 3 and 4, and of course the Porsche Macan E.

The local launch is scheduled in H1 2025.

All variants share a high level of specification and performance underlined by the Q6 e-tron SUV Performance RWD with 225kW/485Nm, the Q6 e-tron quattro with 285/580Nm and the SQ6 e-tron 360kW/580Nm.

Each is designed to deliver a “unique” driving experience, which Audi Australia says is “a significant step forward in Audi’s electrification strategy, showcasing cutting-edge technology, innovative design, and unparalleled performance that embodies Audi’s vision for a sustainable and technologically advanced future”.

The model cuts a dynamic and dashing figure from all angles with unmistakeable Audi design cues including robust wheel arches, various aero aids to boost efficiency, and a bespoke version of the Singleframe grille – even though it’s a BEV.

Likewise, the interior offers up a luxurious and technologically advanced cabin designed to deliver a “premium experience” for all occupants.

The premium experience can be enhanced with Audi’s launch plan that will provide customers access to a range of options that cater to different driving preferences and needs.

The model will arrive equipped with a host of advanced features designed to enhance the driving experience including a 10.9-inch front passenger touchscreen display, a first for Audi, to provide easy access to infotainment and vehicle controls.

It allows the front passenger to interact with the vehicle’s systems independently, enhancing convenience and engagement.

Also range-wide are Matrix LED headlights with multiple signature options offering customisable light signatures that Audi says give the Q6 e-tron a distinctive presence on the road.

Moving up to the SQ6 variant we find additional luxury and performance features including adaptive air suspension and rear OLED taillights for a high-tech look and fillip to safety.

The air suspension system adjusts the vehicle’s ride height and damping characteristics based on driving conditions which Audi says, “provides a perfect balance between comfort and handling”.

The adoption of PPE architecture supports a high capacity 800V electrical system for faster charging, also allowing for multiple innovations in technology, efficiency, safety, and dynamics.

The advanced suspension and chassis systems are said to deliver precise and agile handling while the vehicle’s electric drivetrain is designed to provide instant torque, ensuring smooth and rapid acceleration.

Audi Australia’s head of product, Matt Dale, said the Q6 e-tron kicks off Audi’s new model activities for 2025 that include 20 new models.

“Lifecycle and mid-life changes account for some, but we continue down an electrification path with a range of new models scheduled for 2025,” he stated.

“The last time we saw this number of new Audis was back in 2020, so we are excited at what next year brings.”

Audi Australia’s product planning manager, Peter Strudwicke, said at the Q6 e-tron preview that the model is the most advanced Audi ever.

“It truly embodies the ‘vorsprung durch technik’ (advantage through technology) philosophy. This is the ‘Goldilocks’ segment,” he said referring to the size and packaging of the new BEVs.

“We expect the Q6 will have wide appeal to buyers predominantly over 50 years old with a male skew, tech savvy, and on a circa $200K per annum income.

“It has a grille of sorts that imparts a conventional frontal appearance instead of looking like a science experiment and features masks at each side as highlights and a head-nod in styling to the Audi e-tron GT sportscar.

“It is in a traditional SUV style and can be recognised as an Audi from 100 metres away,” he concluded.

2025 Audi Q6 and SQ6 e-tron pricing*: