Audi Q6 e-tron Sportback revealed with four powertrain options

Audi has introduced the new Q6 e-tron Sportback, which gets a more rakish roofline than the standard electric SUV. The brand says that the coupe-like roofline not only makes the SUV look more stylish but also contributes to its driving range.

1. Q6 e-tron Sportback gets first-gen TT-inspired roof
2. Four electric powertrains are on offer
3. Standard Q6 e-tron will be assembled in India in future

Audi Q6 Sportback: what is different?

The sloping roofline of the new Q6 e-tron Sportback electric SUV is said to be inspired by that of the first-gen Audi TT sportscar, with an aggressive-looking rake flowing into a small spoiler. Audi says this setup improves the SUV’s drag coefficient from 0.28 to 0.26, which boosts the range of the longest-legged Performance model by 24km to 650km between charges. The more acute slope does, however, reduce the Sportback’s boot capacity to 511 litres from the 526 litres available in the standard Q6 e-tron.

A choice of four powertrains and two batteries will be offered on the Q6 Sportback SUV. The entry-level model gets a 75.8kWh (usable capacity) pack and a single motor that can send up to 248hp through the rear wheels. This combination yields a range of 545km and a 100kph time of 7.0 seconds, and the battery can be recharged at up to 225kW.

The Q6 Sportback Performance gets a larger 94.9kWh (usable) battery and a more powerful 302hp motor. As a result, its range increases to 656km, and its 0-100kph time drops to 6.6 seconds. The pack can be recharged at 260kW.

A four-wheel-drive Quattro version is available with the same battery and an additional front motor, increasing the car’s total power output to 382hp. This allows it to dispatch 100kph in 5.9sec. The line-up is topped by the sporty SQ6 Sportback, which sends a combined 482hp to all four wheels. The flagship model is capable of hitting 100kph in 4.3 seconds, although its range is reduced to 606km. The two four-wheel-drive Audi Q6 Sportbacks can be recharged at 270kW.

Inside, the car mirrors the Q6 SUV, with an 11.9-inch digital instrument display and a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen. A 10.9-inch passenger screen can be fitted as an optional extra.

Audi Q6 e-tron: India launch details

The Audi Q6 e-tron will be the brand’s third EV for India, and is likely to be launched here by the end of 2024. Bigger news, however, is that it will be assembled in India from CKD kits at the Skoda Auto-VW Aurangabad plant. It remains to be seen if the Q6 e-tron follows suit.