Is Audi’s latest electric SUV the premium experience we’re hoping for, or does it fall short? Built on Audi’s brand-new PPE platform, co-developed with Porsche, the Q6 e-tron promises premium performance. But as with any innovation, there are teething problems. Irwin from InstaAutoVlog put the beefy German through its paces.
In terms of dimensions, the Q6 e-tron is a big boy: It is larger than the Q4 but more compact than the Q7. The appearance is typical of Audi, with a stylish and elegant design that stands out due to its wide, chic lines. The test car, in Daytona gray, was equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels and various optional packages, including matrix LED headlights and OLED taillights.
Features or gimmicks?
The interior is refined and equipped with high-quality materials, as we have come to expect from Audi. The sports seats offer excellent comfort, and the driving position is well-adjustable, with plenty of space around the driver. Special features include the front passenger’s extra screen and the door panel’s multifunction panel. However, not all choices feel equally well thought out; some touch-sensitive switches are awkwardly placed and add little to the driving experience.
Teething problems in the software
Unfortunately, the software’s teething problems are the Q6 e-tron’s biggest drawback. During the test period, multiple error messages occurred, ranging from problems with traffic sign recognition to malfunctions in the safety systems. This instability detracts from the premium experience you can expect from a brand like Audi, especially considering the car’s hefty price tag. The user interface is beautifully designed but too often proves unreliable in practice.
Varying comfort
In terms of driving technology, the Q6 e-tron offers a lot of comfort, partly thanks to the adaptive air suspension. However, the driving behavior is not always perfect: the car is less stable at higher speeds than you would like and sometimes reacts too sensitively to steering movements, which can be uncomfortable for the passengers. The 800-volt architecture of the platform ensures fast charging and relatively efficient energy consumption, with an average of 19 kWh per 100 km. That is a positive point in an otherwise variable driving experience.
Work to be done
While the Audi Q6 e-tron certainly impresses with its innovative technology and comfort, the overall experience is overshadowed by software issues and a few clumsy design choices. Audi has created an electric SUV that potentially offers a lot, but is not quite finished yet.
