Efficiency & Charging
9/10
Performance & Driving Dynamics
8.5/10
Interior & Technology
9/10
Practicality & Usability
8/10
Value & Running Costs
7/10
Overall
8.5/10
Overview
The Audi S6 e-tron marks a significant evolution in Audi's mid-size performance line, transforming the traditional S6 into a fully electric marvel. Sharing its advanced platform with Porsche, the S6 e-tron competes directly with high-performance electric vehicles like the BMW i5 M60. Buyers can choose between a streamlined Sportback version or the more spacious Avant estate, each blending luxury with the ease of long-distance travel.
Design
The car's design emphasizes a sleek, grounded look that sets it apart from bulkier electric SUVs. Up front, it features a distinctive split-headlight design and a bold bumper for an assertive appearance. S-specific touches include matte-chrome accents, deeper side skirts, and striking 21-inch alloy wheels. The Sportback model boasts a graceful fastback rear, while the Avant offers a more traditional, elongated roofline. Aerodynamic efficiency is enhanced by flush door handles and customizable digital OLED taillights that can project warning signals to other drivers.
Interior
Inside, the focus shifts to a cutting-edge digital environment and high-quality materials. The dashboard is dominated by a panoramic display that includes an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit and a 14.5-inch central touchscreen. There's even a dedicated touchscreen for the front passenger. Premium materials abound, with leather and synthetic leather sports seats, a unique flat-top and bottom steering wheel, and illuminated aluminum door sills. Acoustic glass ensures the cabin remains serene, though some plastic elements feel less luxurious than the rest of the interior.
Performance & Powertrains
The S6 e-tron is powered by dual electric motors that provide permanent all-wheel drive, producing an impressive 405kW and 840Nm of torque. This setup launches both the Sportback and Avant models from 0 to 62mph in a swift 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 149mph. The 100kWh battery, using an 800-volt architecture, offers a range up to 411 miles for the Sportback and 394 miles for the Avant. Fast charging capabilities allow the battery to recharge from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes. The vehicle's adaptive air suspension ensures a smooth ride in comfort mode and minimizes body roll in dynamic mode.
Practicality
Rear passengers enjoy ample legroom thanks to the 2,950mm wheelbase. While the Sportback's sloping roof slightly limits rear headroom, the Avant's taller design solves this. Both versions offer a 502-litre boot, expanding to 1,330 litres with the rear seats folded. A 27-litre front trunk provides space for charging cables.
Buying
Starting at £92,350 for the S6 Sportback e-tron, and £94,150 for the Avant, both models come with a host of standard features in either Black Editions or Vorsprung trims. These include Matrix LED headlights, a panoramic glass roof, 360-degree cameras, and comprehensive driver assistance systems. The EV Hub recommends the Black Editions, with the Sportback offering better range and the Avant providing more rear headroom and cargo space.