Audi’s stealthy S-badged models have, for many years, delivered a near-perfect combination of performance and comfort without the brashness of the hardcore RS variants. The same is true of the new Audi SQ6 e-tron electric crossover, which slots in above the normal Q6 e-tron but below the forthcoming RS Q6 e-tron. With 510 horsepower when launch control is active, the new SQ6 e-tron matches its larger SQ8 e-tron sibling in a 0-60 sprint. Along with the normal Q6 e-tron, this is also the first Audi to ride on the new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, while featuring a fresh design with advanced lighting and new interior digital assistant technologies. Should rivals from Tesla and Lexus be worried?
When Is The Audi SQ6 e-tron Coming Out?
The release date of the Audi SQ6 e-tron will be later in 2024 – Audi USA has been no more specific than this, but we do know that European deliveries will begin in summer 2024. The SQ6 e-tron will be coming out alongside its Q6 e-tron sibling, which we review separately.
2025 Audi SQ6 e-tron Estimated Price And Competition
A local price has not yet been announced for the 2025 Audi SQ6 e-tron, although we know it starts at a hefty 93,800 euros in Europe. That translates to just over $100,000 at current rates, but Americans can expect a likelier base MSRP of around $75,000. That would make it roughly as expensive as a base Q8 e-tron but some way off the $90k SQ8 e-tron.
Almost identical in length to the Tesla Model Y Performance, we can’t discount this as one of the SQ6 e-tron’s rivals. The Model Y Performance starts at only $52,490 and delivers a blistering 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. However, we expect the 2025 SQ6 e-tron’s interior appointments to be a cut above those of the Model Y. In that regard, the range-topping Lexus RZ 450e, which starts at a cost of around $65k, seems like a better match, but the Audi is quicker.
Traditional rivals BMW and Mercedes-Benz don’t have anything directly comparable to the SQ6 e-tron in the USA. The BMW iX is larger and pricier, and the same applies to the Mercedes EQE.
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New Audi SQ6 e-tron Exterior And Colors
The exterior of the Audi SQ6 e-tron is more exciting than the gas-powered Q5’s, thanks to more expressive detailing, like the interplay of soft shapes with various creases and edges. Audi says the PPE platform allowed it to pen the Q6 e-tron’s “perfect proportions” with its long wheelbase and short overhangs.
In front, we see a fresh interpretation of the Singleframe grille, but it’s entirely closed off, so it’s no longer a functional grille. A Selenite Silver or gloss black mask surrounds the Singleframe and side air intakes. High up on the front of the SQ6 e-tron are digital daytime running lights. That’s just one aspect of an SUV that sets new standards for exterior lighting technology.
The Q6 e-tron range features the first active digital light signature, with 12 lighting segments that can dim up and down. Up to eight digital light signatures that can change up the SUV’s appearance are available. At the back, there are digital OLED lights stretched across the body with six OLED panels and 360 segments that can create a new image every ten milliseconds. Besides the flashy aesthetics created by these lights, the rear OLEDs can communicate with the Audi’s surroundings to, for example, warn other road users of an accident ahead. Integrated warning symbols can even appear in the taillights. Audi did mention that some lighting functions won’t be available here due to regulations in the USA, but more information on this will follow.
Another notable design feature includes an opening between the sloping D-pillars and the roof, making the cabin appear longer. Wheel sizes start at 20 inches, but 21s are available optionally. The SQ6 also has unique silver-colored add-on body parts.
The range of colors for the Audi SQ6 e-tron includes Daytona Gray, which you can’t have on the base Q6 e-tron. Other shades include Plasma Blue, Ascari Blue, and Mythos Black, but the complete list of US-specific colors may differ.
Audi SQ6 e-tron Dimensions
The dimensions of the Audi SQ6 e-tron see it compare favorably to many other compact crossovers in the USA, even though the automaker classifies it as a premium midsize model in Europe.
At 187.8 inches in length, it’s less than an inch longer than the Model Y. Other key dimensions for the SQ6 are:
Wheelbase 114.1 inches Length 187.8 inches Width 78.5 inches Height 64.9 inches Curb weight 5,180 lbs
Audi SQ6 e-tron Powertrain And Performance
Dual electric motors form part of the Audi SQ6 e-tron’s potent powertrain, delivering an estimated 483 horsepower combined. With launch control, that figure increases to 510 hp. Thanks to the quattro all-wheel-drive system’s grip, the SQ6 can power to 60 mph in only 4.2 seconds before hitting a top speed of 143 mph. Its 0-60 time exactly matches the SQ8 e-tron.
A front asynchronous motor is complemented by a rear permanent magnet synchronous motor, with the one in front “used in dynamic driving situations.” Although EVs are not considered great choices for towing, the SQ6 e-tron does have a towing capacity of about 5,290 lbs.
Powertrain Dual-motor AWD Horsepower 483 hp – standard 510 hp – launch control 0-60 mph 4.2 seconds Top speed 143 mph
The AWD system provide rear-biased torque distribution, which should make the SQ6 e-tron sportier to drive. Audi says the front and rear motors have different dimensions, which contributes to this rear bias, while the rear tires are wider. A new front axle and a steering rack fixed to a subframe help promote better agility. Another first for any Audi is the placement of the control arms ahead of the suspension arms, creating ideal packaging solutions for the battery.
A wide range of driver-assistance systems will be available, transforming the speedy SQ6 e-tron into a relaxing commuter. The roster includes the new adaptive driving assistant plus, which assists with lane guidance, acceleration, maintaining a set distance, and more via map data, ultrasonic sensors, radar, and a front camera.
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Range, Charging, And Battery Life
A 100-kWh lithium-ion battery (94.9 kWh net) is equipped to the Q6 e-tron. Audi USA has made no range claims for the SQ6, but the normal Q6 will manage over 300 miles. Based on that, we expect the sportier variant to hit around 270 miles; MPGe ratings will only be announced at a later date. With 800-volt technology and DC fast charging at up to 270 kW, the battery can be replenished from 10-80% in 21 minutes. The SQ6 e-tron will also be capable of AC charging at 9.6 kW.
The SQ6 e-tron is capable of bank charging for the first time. If a specific charging station has 400-volt technology, the 800-volt battery is split into two batteries at equal voltage. These can then be charged in parallel at up to 135 kW.
Audi SQ6 e-tron Interior And Cargo
High-tech interfaces, quality materials, and a sense of spaciousness are what you can expect inside. The new PPE architecture helps with space utilization, including notable comfort for the rear center seat – this isn’t a given, even in larger vehicles.
The interior layout of the Audi SQ6 e-tron has a three-dimensional, high-contrast design with elements placed in the foreground or background, facilitating sensible ergonomics. The digital stage consists of the MMI panoramic display (comprising a 14.5-inch touch display and 11.9-inch gauge cluster) and a 10.9-inch MMI passenger display. Meanwhile, a special “Softwrap” runs from the doors across the cockpit and center console to create a continuous, enveloping space for all occupants.
Soft-touch materials are used strategically, and it would be a surprise if the SQ6 e-tron doesn’t meet Audi’s incredibly high standards in this area. Recycled materials have been incorporated into the Audi SQ6 e-tron’s seats, and you’ll also find materials like Dinamica microfiber and Nappa leather elsewhere. The SQ6 e-tron, specifically, also has access to a technical Anthracite fabric and matte brushed aluminum. This sportier variant also gets a red ring around the start/stop button, S-specific displays, and S lettering in the seat design.
Digitalization is taken to new heights in Audi’s latest EV, thanks to the E3 1.2 electronic architecture; E3 stands for end-to-end electronic architecture. Five high-performance computers control everything from partially automated driving to the infotainment system. The curved display appears to float at night, thanks to the smart application of ambient lighting. For the front-seat passenger, the 10.9-inch display can be used to manage navigation or stream video content. Other available technologies include an augmented reality head-up display, the self-learning voice assistant known as the Audi Assistant, over-the-air updates, and an infotainment system based on Android Automotive OS. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported.
The Audi Assistant is particularly impressive – it uses AI support and takes the form of an avatar in the center display. This assistant can understand over 800 voice commands.
The system also supports smart routines, whereby recurring functions are automatically picked up, such as turning on the seat climate controls when the outside temperature is at a certain point. This is the first Audi to get the newly developed Audi phone box with fast inductive charging, along with as many as four USB-C sockets with up to 100 kW of charging power. A Bang & Olufsen Premium sound system with 20 speakers and 830 watts of punch should easily fill the sonic void left by the lack of an internal combustion engine. Some speakers are located in the front headrests, creating different sound zones in an Audi for the first time.
Regarding cargo space inside the Audi SQ6 e-tron, there are 18.5 cubic feet behind the second row. By folding down the 40:20:40 rear seats, a total of 53.9 cu-ft are available. These specs exclude the 2.2 cu-ft of the front trunk/frunk.
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