With 360 kW (489 hp) under the hood, the Audi SQ6 packs impressive power. But how does the Audi Q6 e-tron quattro hold up with 102 hp less?
S or Not S: That Is the Question
Apologies to Shakespeare, but for Audi fans, the real question isn’t „to be or not to be“ but rather: how much performance is enough? With combustion engines, the difference is clear: those craving extra power, a sharper suspension, and serious torque can opt for S or even RS models. But with EVs, like the Q6 e-tron, things aren’t so straightforward.
In electric motors, the thrill of engineering prowess behind every horsepower is now just a matter of extra kW. And while torque has long been a defining element of sporty models, in EVs, it’s instantly available. The unique thrill of rapid EV acceleration is there, even without extra Newton-meters. And given that Audi’s EV suspensions are already honed to perfection, the differences between standard and S models feel smaller than ever.
The Price of Power
Starting at €93,800, the Audi SQ6 e-tron costs €19,100 more than the Q6 e-tron quattro, which we tested. With 140 kW (190 hp) and 275 Nm up front, plus 280 kW (381 hp) and 580 Nm in the rear, the Q6 e-tron quattro has a combined output of 285 kW (387 hp).
So, what do you get for that extra €19,100? Primarily, power. The SQ6 e-tron delivers 360 kW (489 hp) and a similar torque distribution. Audi is mum about exact system torque, perhaps because the PSM electric motor on the rear axle takes priority, with the ASM motor up front joining only when needed. After driving both models through curvy roads and uphill stretches, we can say the Q6 e-tron quattro has plenty of agility to spare.
Ride and Handling
All Q6 e-tron models share the same base suspension tuning. The SQ6 sits 25 mm lower and has a slightly firmer suspension, but it’s far from uncomfortably stiff. Meanwhile, the Q6 e-tron quattro maintains a balanced ride that’s neither too soft nor wobbly. Unlike the original Citroën 2CV (sorry, Duck fans!), it handles straightaways and curves with surprising composure.
In terms of efficiency, our test Q6 e-tron quattro averaged 21.4 kWh/100 km, slightly more than Audi’s stated 19.7 kWh/100 km. Equipped with a 100-kWh battery (94.9 kWh net), it has a maximum range of 625 km. Charging matches the SQ6 thanks to the 800-volt tech, bringing the battery from 10% to 80% in about 21 minutes at a 270 kW fast charger. However, home AC charging is capped at 11 kW, taking around 10 hours for a full charge.
Subtle Differences in Features
As expected, the Q6 e-tron quattro lacks some of the SQ6’s standard features, like 20-inch wheels (18 inches on the Q6) and sport seats. Inside, however, both versions are largely identical, with curved digital displays: an 11.9-inch gauge display and a 14.5-inch touchscreen.
A head-up display with augmented reality is available, projecting information as if on an 88-inch screen directly onto the road. The E3 architecture powers the infotainment system, running the PPE platform’s Software 1.2.
Spacious and Practical
Space isn’t an issue in this 4.77-meter electric SUV. Adults will find ample room in the back seats, and the cargo area offers 526 liters, expanding to 1,529 liters with the rear seats folded down.
Up front, a 64-liter “frunk” provides extra storage. For many, the Q6 e-tron quattro offers everything they need without stepping up to the SQ6.
Audi Q6 e-tron quattro Specs
- Type: Electric SUV
- Motor: ASM (front) / PSM (rear)
- Power: 387 hp (285 kW)
- Torque: 275 Nm (front) / 580 Nm (rear)
- Top Speed: 210 km/h
- 0–100 km/h: 5.9 sec
- Transmission: Automatic
- Drive: All-wheel
- Battery: 94.9 kWh (net)
- Consumption: 19.7 kWh/100 km
- CO2 Emissions: 0 g/km
- Weight: 2,325 kg
- Max Cargo: 1,529 L
- Price: €74,700