Audi: First kilometers with the Q6 e-tron 🎥

To find out, we traveled to the Faroe Islands, halfway between Scotland and Iceland. Audi invited us to test drive two prototypes of the all-electric SUV; we spent many hours behind the wheel of the Q6 55 e-Tron (295 kW/401 hp) and the SQ6 (380 kW/517 hp).

The newcomer's shape is clearly recognizable even with camouflage, as Audi now largely limits itself to a white foil with pink, red and purple accents. The SUV stands on 21-inch wheels, on which 255 tires are mounted at the front and 285 tires at the rear, and presents itself with a shape that is crossed by sharp lines, tends to be sporty, but ultimately rather inconspicuous and, due to the delays, no longer particularly progressive.

Octagonal radiator grille

The front headlights are divided into two planes. They flank an octagonal radiator grille. There will also be smaller wheel sizes, starting at 18 inches. From the rear, the Q6 e-Tron looks like the Q4 e-Tron's big brother, which it is. The side view with a D-pillar reminiscent of a shark fin certainly looks coupe-like - although there will also be a Sportback version with a rounder roofline.

Leading lighting technology

A closer look reveals many intelligent details. The lighting units, for example: The optional front matrix LEDs not only cast a glistening, lightning-fast adapted light onto the road, but they can display eight different daytime running light patterns. The same number of patterns can be displayed by the taillights, which feature second-generation OLED technology.

The different variants can be selected not only via the MMI system, but also via a smartphone app, allowing the driver to admire his selection standing right next to the car. Audi is proud to defend its hard-earned leadership in lighting technology; it doesn't get more sophisticated than this.

Perfect controls

The interior can probably keep up as well, but it remained largely hidden under a plastic veil during our test drive. However, the voice control gives hints of next-generation ambient lighting, and the positioning of the buttons and controls is just as perfect as the tactile feedback. The Q6 has a futuristic four-spoke steering wheel, while the SQ6 is equipped with a more conventional-looking three-spoke steering wheel. Incidentally, there was only a simple horn in the prototype. Perhaps Audi can bring itself to install a dual-tone fanfare by the time it is ready for series production.

Chassis and driving feel

The drives are all about the chassis and powertrain, and the driving experience that the Q6 conveys. It stands on the brand-new PPE architecture, which is shared with Porsche's upcoming electric Macan. With a multi-link rear axle and torque vectoring function, as well as the "best pedal feel in its class" i (quote Audi), this SUV is designed for dynamics.

And you can feel it: The steering is quick and precise, the power distribution is rather rear-heavy, the car is remarkably agile in corners, and it's fun to play with the rear when accelerating out.

The car appears much lighter than it actually is. It provides precise information about road conditions, the brakes are easy to dose, and the change from recuperation to hydraulic braking is virtually imperceptible - unlike almost all other electric vehicles currently on offer.

Quiet and low vibration

The SQ model is noticeably firmer than the Q6 e-Tron. However, both versions offer a pleasant range between the comfort and dynamic settings without going too far to the extremes.

The Q6 already has such a strong engine that you don't really need the extra power of the SQ6. Both models are very quiet and low in vibration, and the response to the accelerator pedal is quick, but not as nervous as in the BMW iX, for example. Depending on the model and market, we expect a range of over 600 kilometers as a result of the efficient powertrain and excellent aerodynamics. You can select a one-pedal function, and the Q6 is also well prepared for serious offroading.

Source: Auto-Medienportal.net
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