Audi takes the wrap off the new A6 e-tron

ABU DHABI: Audi is putting in a lot of effort these days to revamp its lineup. The automaker is transitioning gas-powered models to odd-numbered names and assigning even numbers to its electric vehicles. The A6, a popular midsize luxury sedan, has now become an all-electric fastback with a drag coefficient of just 0.21. The new A6 Sportback e-tron is considered the most aerodynamic Audi yet and has been introduced globally in both Avant and Sportback versions.

The new Audi A6 e-tron is based on the PPE architecture similar to the Q6 e-tron SUV. It features short overhangs and a long wheelbase. It boasts a grille that is body-coloured to signify its electric powertrain. For improved aerodynamics, it also includes an active cool-air intake and functional air curtains.

The Audi A6 e-tron boasts a modern, sleek design with customizable LED lighting and split headlamps. Its front is glossy black with sharp bonnet lines and a body-coloured grille. The A6 e-tron measures 1,923 mm in width, 4,928 mm in length, and 1,527 mm in height. It has a spacious interior with a 502-litre rear boot and a 27-litre frunk. You can upgrade the standard 19-inch wheels to 21-inch. 

Inside, the car features a single curved display with a 14.5-inch infotainment screen and an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster. It also comes with a 10.9-inch passenger screen, an AI-supported voice assistant, and a HUD with augmented reality.

A unique feature of the A6 e-tron is the ambient lighting strip wrapped around the doors and dashboard. It indicates the charging status and changes colour. Its steering wheel is squarish and traditional buttons have been replaced by a touch-based control panel, while the centre console includes a physical media dial and drive selector toggle. The interior features satin silver, fabric upholstery, and gloss black finishes. A 20-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, a powered tailgate, full ADAS, a glass roof with adjustable opacity, and a 360-degree camera are the main highlights.

The A6 e-tron will be available in three variants: Performance RWD with 362hp, Quattro AWD with 422hp, and base RWD with 282hp. The S6 e-tron models come with Quattro AWD and deliver 496 hp. Performance specs for the base model include 0-100 kph in 6.0 seconds, 3.9 seconds for the S6 e-tron, and 4.5 seconds for the AWD with 210 kph and 240 kph top speeds, respectively.

The A6 e-tron comes with two battery options. For the base RWD variant, it has an 83kWh pack with a range of 610 km, and for other variants, it has a 100kWh pack with 647 km to 756 km range. The 270kW charging is supported by a 100kWh battery, going in 21 minutes from 10% to 80%. It takes just 10 minutes to provide 310 km of range. It comes with dual charging ports and an optional 22kW AC charger. As an extra, you get adaptive air suspension.

The A6 e-tron is expected to make its debut beginning early 2025 in international markets. It will first be received in Europe. Audi has not revealed anything about the launch of this model in the UAE.

Also read: All-new Audi A5 makes its debut with enhanced technology and refined aesthetics