Audi improves its electric vehicle strategy with the A6 e-tron, although it makes avoidable mistakes.

Audi has managed to build a reputation in the automotive world thanks to its all-wheel drive systems and its success in competitions, but it was premium sedans like the A6 that brought the brand to a wider audience. Now, the Audi A6 is undergoing a complete electric transformation. The 2025 model, named A6 e-tron, is expected to arrive in the United States next year, using a familiar name to highlight Audi's latest electric vehicle (EV) technology. This new model shares the Premium Electric Platform (PPE) with the Audi Q6 e-tron SUV, offering greater efficiency and charging capability than the brand's earlier electric models. However, just like the combustion A6, the e-tron will compete with sedans from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, specifically the i5 and EQE, respectively.

Although the U.S. launch is still a few months away, Audi held a global test for the A6 e-tron in Tenerife, part of the Canary Islands. The event showcased two variants: the single-motor, rear-wheel drive A6 e-tron and the dual-motor, all-wheel drive S6 e-tron. Additionally, Audi will offer a mid-range version called the A6 e-tron quattro.

The design of the A6 e-tron updates Audi's distinctive aesthetic for the electric era. Although no longer necessary, the large grille, known as the Singleframe, remains. In a shift from traditional combustion car design, its color matches the body, surrounded by a darkened area that conceals the front lights, focusing more on the stylized daytime running lights. Using a low-floor version of the PPE architecture, the A6 e-tron maintains sedan proportions, although it presents a more upright and formal appearance compared to the e-tron GT, which is geared towards a sportier performance.

Aerodynamic efficiency is crucial for electric vehicles, and the A6 e-tron has a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.23, compared to the EQE's 0.22. European models will have an even lower Cd thanks to the use of cameras instead of exterior mirrors. Inside, although it features an attractive design, some materials may seem less appropriate for a vehicle in this category.

In terms of specifications, the A6 e-tron measures 194.0 inches in length, 76.2 inches in width, and 58.7 inches in height, with a trunk capacity that can reach up to 40.0 cubic feet when folding down the rear seats. The powertrain range includes from 375 hp in the single-motor A6 e-tron, to 543 hp in the S6 e-tron. Regarding range, estimates suggest up to 390 miles for the A6 e-tron Ultra.

Audi has followed the trend of incorporating multiple screens in the dashboard, with a curved setup that includes an 11.9-inch digital instrument display and a 14.5-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system interface is compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. However, the voice recognition system, while it includes integration with ChatGPT, proved to be less efficient compared to other brands.

As for the driving experience, the S6 e-tron models proved to be fast but with steering that left something to be desired. An additional run on a more suitable road revealed the true potential of the S6 e-tron, where it performed better on straight and fast stretches. On the other hand, the single-motor A6 e-tron felt more agile and comfortable for daily use.

Audi plans to offer the A6 e-tron with a 100 kWh battery pack, estimating a range of up to 390 miles for the single-motor version. DC fast charging capability will be set at a maximum of 270 kW, allowing charging from 10% to 80% in approximately 21 minutes. However, certain aspects, such as chassis tuning and some interior materials, could pose challenges for this model in the competitive market of luxury electric sedans.