The 2025 Audi SQ6 e-tron Made Me Smile While Driving But Made Me Frustrated at the Charger: Review | Carscoops

      The SQ6 e-tron demonstrates that Audi is capable of creating an exceptional electric performance SUV that is also enjoyable to drive.

      By Brad Anderson

      PROS ›› Exciting performance, tech-rich interior, rapid DC charging CONS ›› High price, inefficient, lacks active lane centering

      Audi's S models are indeed special. While they may not match the speed or excitement of RS models, they strike a good balance of performance, comfort, luxury, and top-notch German craftsmanship.

      One of the latest additions to Audi’s S lineup is the SQ6 e-tron. First revealed last year, it stands at the top of the all-electric Q6 e-tron series and competes with vehicles like the Porsche Macan 4S, Mercedes-AMG EQE 53, and even more basic versions of the Lotus Eletre.

      Is the SQ6 e-tron worthy of the S badge and a serious competitor in its class? To find out, I spent a week with a sleek black model. It proved to be a well-rounded vehicle, though not without some shortcomings.

      QUICK FACTS

      The Powertrain

      In Australia, the 2025 Audi SQ6 e-tron starts at AUD 151,400 (~USD 98,200), while in the US, it begins at USD 72,900. The specifications are quite impressive.

      All SQ6 e-tron models come equipped with a standard 100 kWh lithium-ion battery that powers two electric motors, generating a total of 360 kW (483 hp) or 380 kW (510 hp) when launch control is activated. The front motor provides 275 Nm (203 lb-ft) of torque, while the rear motor offers 580 Nm (423 lb-ft). Audi claims the SQ6 e-tron can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.3 seconds, or 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.2 seconds.

      Audi states that the SQ6 e-tron achieves an energy consumption of 17.5 – 18.6 kWh/100 km on the combined cycle and has a WLTP range of 568 km (353 miles). However, my experience suggested that these figures are overly optimistic.

      A Cabin Dominated By Screens

      The SQ6 e-tron features Audi’s latest interior design, also found in the new Audi A5 models, displaying both positives and negatives.

      The three large screens immediately catch the eye. An 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch MMI infotainment screen are positioned within a curved panel, while a 10.9-inch touchscreen is placed in front of the passenger.

      As seen in other Audi models with a virtual cockpit, the cluster is highly customizable and one of the best in its category. Likewise, the central infotainment display is excellent, well-protected from glare and responsive due to the Android Automotive OS it employs; it also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features.

      The passenger screen contains various functions, including navigation, entertainment, and passenger-specific settings, such as controls for the massaging seats. While the seats are elegantly upholstered in leather with electric adjustments and heating, the absence of ventilation is a significant oversight at this price level.

      Additionally, the SQ6 e-tron features luxurious Alcantara on the dashboard's central area and door panels. However, other than the Alcantara and the sophisticated touch controls for lights, mirrors, and seat adjustments, the doors feel cheap, primarily composed of hard black plastic. Audi has not updated the door handle design, which retains a blank plastic button where older models had lock and unlock buttons. I was also disappointed to find no metallic speaker grilles, particularly since the tested model featured a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system.

      The console showcases the same piano black finish found in other recent Audis. While it looks appealing when clean, it is easily scratched. The steering wheel includes capacitive buttons that take some time to get used to. On the positive side, there is an attractive ambient lighting system that runs beneath the windshield base, featuring a charging display and even flashes when the turn signal is activated.

      Overall, the front area provides good space and comfort, but it is clear that some cost-cutting measures were implemented. The rear seating offers ample space and feels airy, thanks to the panoramic glass sunroof. Nevertheless, rear climate controls are disappointingly limited to heated seat switches and fan speed knobs.

      Audi claims that the SQ6 e-tron has a cargo capacity of 526 liters (18.5 cubic feet) in the rear, or 1,529 liters (53.9 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded. There is also a small storage compartment in the frunk, but charging cables occupy most of the available space.

      Quick And Agile, Like An Audi S Should Be

      With up to 380 kW (509 hp) available,