Audi initially concentrated on electric crossovers, but the German luxury automaker is now branching out its EV lineup. Introducing the A6 Sportback E-Tron and its more practical Avant variant, which won’t be available in the US. Both models are built on the same PPE platform as the Q6 E-Tron and the new Porsche Macan.

In line with the current trend of split headlights, the A6 E-Tron models feature main lights positioned below a distinct strip of daytime running lights and turn signals. The European versions come with adaptive matrix LEDs and customizable light signatures, but unfortunately, these won’t be offered in the US due to regulations. The side cameras will also be absent from the North American versions, which will retain traditional mirrors. Disappointing.

In contrast to the Q6 E-Tron with its protruding door handles, the A6 E-Tron models showcase a more streamlined design with flush door handles. As a Sportback, the standard A6 essentially functions as a hatchback with a more user-friendly tailgate. We’re observing some design similarities with the new A5 Sportback, although the latter features a more attractive front with integrated lights.

Audi claims a drag coefficient of just 0.21 for the Sportback, though the US version won’t match that exact figure. This Cd rating is for a model featuring a Euro-specific wheel design and aerodynamically optimized side cameras. The A6 E-Tron stands as Audi’s most aerodynamic road car ever and is also the most aero-efficient Volkswagen Group model available today. However, the rare VW XL1 holds the record with a Cd of just 0.189. As anticipated, the A6 E-Tron Avant is less streamlined, but a Cd of 0.24 for a wagon is still impressive.

While the exterior mirrors the gasoline-powered A5, the interior also feels familiar. This includes a 10.9-inch touchscreen dedicated to the passenger. Without this extra display, the dashboard on the base A5 appears odd. The center is dominated by a 14.5-inch screen, with the driver getting an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster—just like in the new A5.

Audi plans to offer the A6 Sportback E-Tron in the US in three versions: rear-wheel drive, Quattro, and the more powerful S6. The base version will feature 362 horsepower, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 130 mph. The midrange model will include an additional e-motor at the front axle, boosting total output to 422 hp, reducing the 0 to 60 mph time to 4.3 seconds, while maintaining the top speed.

For the flagship model, the S6 Sportback E-Tron offers 496 hp to the driver. With launch control activated, the total system output momentarily boosts to 543 hp, allowing for a 0-60 mph acceleration in just 3.7 seconds. At maximum performance, the vehicle reaches 149 mph.

Regardless of the variant, all models come with a lithium-ion battery pack providing a usable capacity of 94.4 kWh. It supports DC charging up to 270 kW, meaning it can recharge from 10 to 80 percent in 21 minutes.

	Horsepower	0-60 MPH	Top Speed	Battery
A6 E-Tron RWD	362 HP	5.2 Seconds	130 MPH	100.0 kWh (94.4 kWh net)
A6 E-Tron Quattro	422 HP	4.3 Seconds	130 MPH	100 kWh (94.4 kWh net)
S6 E-Tron	496 HP / 543 HP (Launch Control)	3.7 Seconds	149 MPH	100.0 kWh (94.4 kWh net)

Detailed technical specs for the A6 Sportback E-Tron set for the American market will be revealed closer to its release. However, we know that its European rear-wheel-drive version is estimated to cover more than 466 miles. The less aerodynamic wagon variant is expected to achieve over 447 miles. As anticipated, the more powerful S versions have reduced efficiency, with the Sportback reaching 416 miles and the Avant 398 miles.

While the WLTP range figures are not yet available, the EPA estimate for the US model will likely be lower. In comparison, the most efficient BMW i5 available in the US offers a range of 295 miles, the most economical Mercedes EQE provides 298 miles, and a Tesla Model S is rated for up to 402 miles.

There’s more to the Avant not sold in America than just its extended roof; Audi has made further modifications. The wagon now features an additional spoiler on the rear diffuser and side spoilers at the back to achieve that impressive drag coefficient. If performance is your priority over range, the electric family vehicle also receives the dynamic S6 upgrade, allowing it to reach 62 mph in just 3.9 seconds.

Pricing details for the US version will be released later. However, we know that the A6 E-Tron starts at €75,600 ($81,800) in Germany for the base Sportback and goes up to €101,150 ($109,000) for the S6 E-Tron in Avant form. In Europe, orders will be accepted starting in September. Audi indicates that more rear- and all-wheel-drive variants will be available.

By launching an electric A6, Audi marks the start of the end for the gas-powered A6. The next internal combustion engine model will adopt the A7 name. This change is part of a new naming scheme where electric vehicles will have even numbers and combustion models odd numbers. This updated nomenclature is already in use for the new A5 Sportback/A5 Avant with traditional engines, creating space in the lineup for a future electric A4. Similarly, the upcoming A8 will be an electric vehicle.

Source and Images: Motor1