2025 Audi A6 and S6 Sportback E-Tron: Powerful EVs at the Wrong Time
The U.S. Electric Vehicle Market Faces Challenges
The U.S. electric vehicle (EV) market is currently facing significant challenges, influenced by a combination of political and economic factors. President Trump's strong opposition to EVs and renewable energy has played a role in shaping the current landscape. His policies have included measures that end federal EV tax credits by September 30, which could impact consumer adoption of electric vehicles. Additionally, his administration has rolled back various environmental protections, Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) penalties, and green energy investments, all of which are detrimental to the future of EVs in America.
Mercedes-Benz recently announced that it will pause production of U.S.-spec versions of its EQE and EQS models due to low demand. However, Audi remains optimistic about the success of its new EVs. I had the opportunity to drive Audi’s Q6 and SQ6 E-Tron electric SUVs last year, and more recently, I tested the first vehicles that use what Audi calls the "low floor" version of the PPE platform, the A6 and S6 Sportback E-Tron. This low floor offers several advantages compared to the "high floor" versions found in the Q6 and SQ6, as well as the Porsche Macan EV. The question remains: will these features be enough to convince American consumers to go electric without tax incentives? Audi certainly hopes so.
Full Disclosure
Audi invited me to participate in the first-drive program for the U.S.-spec A6 and S6 Sportback E-Tron, providing accommodations at a beautiful oceanfront resort in Montecito, California, along with gourmet meals and drinks. None of these perks influenced my impressions of the car, though I appreciate the hospitality.
The Numbers
My colleague Andy attended the global first drive of the A6 and S6 Sportback E-Tron late last year and wrote a detailed review of the Euro-spec model. However, the U.S.-spec model includes some tweaks, and we now have finalized specifications. In the U.S., the base rear-wheel-drive A6 Sportback E-Tron starts at $67,195, including $1,295 destination. Opting for the dual-motor A6 Sportback E-Tron Quattro increases the price to $69,195, while the S6 Sportback E-Tron starts at $79,995.
All A6 and S6 E-Trons come equipped with a 100-kWh battery pack, of which 94.4 kWh is usable, and they are built on an 800-volt architecture. These models can charge at a maximum of 270 kW, allowing for a competitive 21-minute 10-to-80% charge time. The single-motor A6 E-Tron has the longest EPA-estimated range at 392 miles, driven by a rear-mounted motor producing 375 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque. Upgrading to the A6 Sportback E-Tron Quattro adds a front motor, increasing power to 456 horsepower but slightly reducing the range to 377 miles. The dual-motor S6 is the top performer with 543 horsepower, but its range drops to 324 miles.
The A6 E-Tron Quattro Is More Than Enough
Audi provided A6 E-Tron Quattros and S6 E-Trons for the test drive. I started with the A6 Quattro, which proved to be a versatile and comfortable option. The top-spec Prestige trim comes with Audi's comfort-tuned air suspension, which paired with standard acoustic front side windows created a remarkably isolated driving experience. The A6 felt like an airy sensory isolation chamber even at highway speeds.
When the roads became twisty, the A6 maintained its composure. It clung to the road effectively, following steering inputs without losing control. While it isn't particularly playful, the A6 demonstrated impressive dynamic abilities given its size and weight.
The S6 Is Incrementally Better
The S6 offers minimal benefits over the A6 Quattro despite the higher price. It includes features such as sports seats, red upholstery, 21-inch wheels, and OLED taillights. Its sport-tuned air suspension sits lower than the A6's comfort-tuned version, resulting in a firmer ride. The S6 felt similar to the A6 in corners, though its thicker sway bars contributed to a flatter handling experience.
The 87-horsepower increase over the A6 was less noticeable in real-world driving, and the S6's maximum output of 543 horsepower is only available when launch control is engaged. The S6 still felt quick, but not dramatically faster than the A6 Quattro.
Touchscreens And Technology Galore
The Audi A6 and S6 E-Trons offer excellent technology, though they come with a high number of screens. Standard features include an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit and a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen. The Prestige trim adds a 10.9-inch passenger screen, which is useful but unnecessary.
Audi's digital ecosystem is comprehensive, requiring most tasks to be performed through the touchscreen. This can be distracting, but the voice assistant helps minimize menu diving. Despite this, physical buttons and knobs remain essential for certain functions.
Beyond The Screens
The A6 comes with a fixed glass roof that allows for varying levels of opacity, which I found to be both practical and enjoyable. The augmented reality head-up display is helpful but can be distracting. Audi also offers an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system with speakers in the headrests, which I found to be a unique feature.
Roomy And Versatile Interior
The A6's interior is spacious and versatile, though the driver's seat did not sit low enough for my height. The passenger seat felt lower, which was unexpected. The steeply raked windshield and the position of the rearview mirror made visibility challenging on twisty mountain roads. However, the rear seat offered ample space, and the hatchback design provided generous trunk space.
Conclusion
Overall, I found the A6 and S6 Sportback E-Tron to be agreeable EVs. They may not look particularly exciting, but they are quick, fast-charging, efficient, and comfortable. While their sales success in the U.S. remains uncertain, they should be considered by those seeking a high-end electric sedan.