The Audi S6 e-tron Sportback is a high-performance all-electric vehicle positioned between the standard A6 e-tron and the more aggressive S e-tron GT. It delivers a blend of luxury, speed, and range, but doesn’t quite reach the raw athleticism of its more expensive sibling.
Overview: Power and Practicality
This model builds on the popular A6 e-tron, adding extra power and handling enhancements. Standard features include rear-biased all-wheel drive and adaptive air suspension, allowing it to hit 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds when launch control is engaged. The liftback design offers generous cargo space without sacrificing the sleek look of a four-door coupe.
Key Takeaway: While not a pure sports car, the S6 e-tron provides a substantial performance upgrade over the base model and competes well with rivals like the BMW i5 M60.
What’s New for 2027?
The S6 e-tron returns for 2027 after skipping the 2026 model year, bringing minor updates. These include a new scroll-wheel button on the steering wheel, slight infotainment adjustments, and complimentary scheduled maintenance for buyers.
Pricing and Trim Levels
The Prestige trim is the most performance-oriented option, making it the recommended choice for those prioritizing driving dynamics. It aligns with the BMW i5 M60 in price but is notably cheaper than the Mercedes-AMG EQE.
Performance and Handling
- Powertrain: Dual electric motors deliver a total of 496 horsepower, with a temporary boost to 543 horsepower using launch control.
- Drivetrain: Standard Quattro all-wheel drive prioritizes rear-wheel torque for improved handling.
- Suspension: Adaptive air suspension offers adjustable ride height and handling settings.
The S6 e-tron handles better than the standard A6 e-tron, but it doesn’t match the agility of the Lucid Air.
Range and Charging
- Estimated Range: 324 miles on a full charge.
- Charging Speed: 800-volt architecture supports up to 270kW DC fast charging. Audi claims 192 miles of range can be added in just 10 minutes, and a 10% to 80% recharge takes around 21 minutes.
- Efficiency: EPA estimates 106 MPGe city, 103 MPGe highway, and 105 MPGe combined.
Interior and Tech
The S6 e-tron’s cabin features Audi’s modern tech-forward design. Key highlights include:
- Panoramic Glass Roof: Uses polymer-dispersed liquid crystal technology to switch from transparent to opaque.
- Seats: Standard sport seats upholstered in microsuede.
- Infotainment: 14.5-inch touchscreen, 11.9-inch digital gauge cluster, and an optional 10.9-inch passenger display.
- Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, integrated ChatGPT AI assistant.
- Audio: Available 20-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo.
Safety Features
The S6 e-tron comes standard with adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and automated emergency braking. Optional upgrades include lane-centering assist and a 360-degree camera system.
Warranty and Maintenance
- Limited Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Battery Warranty: 8 years or 100,000 miles
- Maintenance: Complimentary for 3 years or 30,000 miles.
Conclusion: The Audi S6 e-tron Sportback is a strong contender in the luxury EV market. It combines performance, range, and technology in a practical package, making it an excellent choice for drivers seeking a premium electric experience. While it doesn’t offer the same raw excitement as some rivals, it provides a well-rounded driving experience that balances comfort and capability.
