By Ian Strachan.
If you think electric cars are dull but worthy, think again. Audi’s electric range proves that you can go fully electric without sacrificing style, luxury or performance.
Audi’s all-electric SUV – the Q6 e-tron quattro – has superb neck-snapping performance while cosseting you in Nappa leather sports seats. Plus it has a good range and fast charging time, easing the anxieties that put people off going electric.
The Q6 e-tron pumps out 388 horsepower, has a top speed where allowed of of 130 mph and will propel you from 0 to 60mph in around five and a half seconds. If you are heavy footed in this Audi there will be a range penalty. Published range from a full charge is 344 miles, but expect to get less, depending on driving style and any other demands you may put on the battery, particularly heating and air conditioning.
Apart from its impressive performance the Q6 e-tron has lots of other things to like. It is packed with technology and safety aids, and with its quattro set-up it handles exceptionally well, is capable off road and is well behaved on road. It also looks good, with aluminium roof rails, rear spoiler and impressive 21-inch alloys. My test car came in a striking Ascari Blue metallic finish.
Despite its size, this is undoubtedly an Audi, with the distinctive deep Audi grille, unique trim and pleasing lines. Inside it’s very roomy and comfortable, with plenty of creature comforts. There are touchscreen functions for most of the car’s settings and controls and the dashboard has a pleasing curve to it, giving the driver a wraparound, cockpit feel.
The load-space behind the rear seats is considerable at 526 litres which can be increased to 1529 litres by folding the seats. The tailgate is electronically powered.
The Q6 handles better than mmany 4x4s. It is stable and predictable, with no suspension wallow, and flat cornering. The Q6’s manners are impeccable and it’s a great motorway cruiser. Steering is light but precise.
Specification is exceptionally good. Pretty much anything you can think of is included in the launch specification which I tested. This includes leather upholstery, adaptive cruise control, park assist, automatic air conditioning, satellite navigation, premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, panormaic sunroof, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, augmented reality head-up display, multi-function all round camera system, electric heated front seats with memory function and multi-function heated steering wheel. There are some nice touches here, including the touch-operated charging point covers.
The Q6 e-tron quattro Launch Edition comes at £86,440 on the road. Not cheap by any means, but this Audi is exceptionally well-equipped and you get the benefit of an impressive, high specification vehicle that won’t depreciate quickly, and a versatile and more than competent performer. Plus, even though you’re driving a big 4×4 you can do so with a clear conscience.
