In 2025, the new electric A6 and S6 e-tron models will join the A6 lineup, which also includes internal combustion engine vehicles. These two cars feature an elegant and highly aerodynamic design and are built on the same electric platform as the Q6 e-tron.
Although the A6 e-tron is not Audi’s first electric vehicle—preceded by the e-tron GT based on the Porsche Taycan—it is the first to be offered at a price below $100,000. The new electric sedan is expected to start at around $70,000 for the rear-wheel-drive model with 362 horsepower, rise to $80,000 for the 422-hp A6 e-tron, and exceed $90,000 for the 543-hp S6 e-tron when it goes on sale in late spring.
All models boast a sleek new body, and as the name "Sportback" suggests, there is a large rear hatch. The large taillights are made up of OLED lights that can be customized via the car’s settings menu. The more attractive "Avant" model will be available in some markets, though Audi representatives did not comment on the possibility of an "Allroad" version.
The interior design is shared with the Q6 e-tron and features a 14.5-inch infotainment display and an 11.9-inch driver’s display. We hope for more options for the gauge cluster. To enhance passenger comfort, there is an optional 14.5-inch display mounted in front of the passenger seat for games or videos. The panoramic glass roof can switch from transparent to opaque at the touch of a button and can display a checkerboard-like pattern. The cargo space in the rear hatch measures 26 cubic feet.
The A6 e-tron features a 94.4-kWh battery integrated into the floor, expected to provide a range of up to 350 miles. Official EPA range numbers are not yet available, but the anticipated European range of over 450 miles may not be accurate in real-world conditions. Audi offers charging speeds of up to 270 kW on a DC fast charger, allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes. If connected to a 400-kW source, the A6 can charge its two battery banks separately at speeds of up to 135 kW. The onboard charger supports 11 kW on an AC connection.
Regarding performance, the base single-motor A6 e-tron is expected to reach 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, while the dual-motor A6 e-tron Quattro reduces that time to 4.3 seconds. Finally, the S6 e-tron will reach 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. The aerodynamic design achieves a drag coefficient of 0.21 in European models with camera side mirrors; however, US models will be slightly less aerodynamic.
In conclusion, the new electric A6 joins the gasoline-powered A6 models in Audi’s lineup next year. Over time, the internal combustion engine models will be phased out, leaving only the electric version.