Audi has expanded its electric vehicle (EV) lineup with the introduction of the Audi A6 Sportback E-Tron. This new model joins the Q6 E-Tron and is built on the PPE platform, which it shares with the Macan Electric. The A6 Sportback E-Tron will be available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) versions. The RWD version features a single electric motor with 362 horsepower, a 0-60 mph time of 5.2 seconds, and a top speed of 130 mph. The Quattro version adds a second electric motor to the front axle, resulting in a combined output of 422 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds. For those seeking even more performance, the S6 Sportback E-Tron offers a combined output of 496 horsepower, or 543 horsepower with launch control, and a 0-60 mph time of just 3.7 seconds.
Both the A6 and S6 Sportback E-Tron utilize the same 100-kilowatt-hour battery pack, with 94.4 kWh usable. While official EPA range figures are not yet available, Audi estimates that the RWD A6 Sportback E-Tron can travel over 447 miles on a single charge, while the S6 Sportback E-Tron is estimated to have a range of about 398 miles. The charging capabilities of the A6 Sportback E-Tron are equally impressive, with a maximum charge speed of 270 kilowatts. Audi claims that this allows for a 10-80% charge in just 21 minutes. The A6 E-Tron can also fast-charge on 400-volt charging stations, with a parallel charging capability of up to 135 kW. Home charging options include a 22 kW AC charging option and an 11 kW option at launch.
In terms of design, the Audi A6 Sportback E-Tron features a sleek and clean aesthetic. The black insert in the sill area emphasizes its floor-mounted battery design, while the grille design is reminiscent of the Q6 E-Tron. The car is equipped with OLED front and rear lights with customizable light signatures, adding to its distinctive look. Despite its sporty appearance, the A6 Sportback E-Tron offers practicality with its hatchback opening rear end and spacious rear seats.
Inside the cabin, the A6 Sportback E-Tron is packed with technology. It features a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, an 11.9-inch digital cluster, a 10.9-inch front passenger display, and a new augmented reality head-up display. The infotainment system uses the Android Automotive OS and offers over-the-air updates. The voice control system has been greatly improved and even integrates with ChatGPT to provide comprehensive answers to user queries. Additional features include a 20-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system and an optional smart panoramic glass roof.
Audi has also equipped the A6 Sportback E-Tron with an optional adaptive air suspension system that offers four different ride height levels. It includes an “efficiency” mode that lowers the body to improve aerodynamics and range. The S6 Sportback E-Tron offers a more rear-biased AWD system and variable torque distribution for enhanced performance. Both the A6 and S6 Sportback E-Tron models will be available for sale in the U.S. in the spring or summer of 2025, with pricing details to be announced closer to the launch date.
Unfortunately, the Avant versions of the A6 and S6 Sportback E-Tron will not be available in the U.S. market. These electric wagons share many similarities with their Sportback counterparts but have a slightly lower range due to their less aerodynamic body shape.