Audi’s answer to that is the 483bhp (510bhp with L.C) SQ6, which gets a strong 0-62mph time of 4.4 seconds, or 4.3 seconds with launch control. The powertrain responds well, but in Normal mode, it can feel lethargic when moving off. Those accustomed to instant acceleration in their EV might prefer the more lively response of Sport mode.
All Q6 models have a top speed of 130mph, while the SQ6 e-tron raises this to 143mph.
| Model | Power | 0-62mph | Top speed |
| Q6 e-tron 83kWh Sport | 249bhp | 7.6 seconds | 130mph |
| Q6 e-tron 100kWh Sport performance | 302bhp | 6.7 seconds | 130mph |
| Q6 e-tron 100kWh quattro Sport | 422bhp | 5.4 seconds | 130mph |
Town driving, visibility and parking
With one exception, the braking system on the Audi Q6 e-tron is fantastic. That flaw comes at low speeds and is the hill-hold system, which engages when you use gentle pressure on the pedal and comes on a little too readily when reversing, meaning precise parking manoeuvres – especially uphill – can be a tad jerky. We’d recommend you turn the auto hold function off.
That aside, the key to the Q6’s brakes is its ability to recover a huge amount of energy through regenerative braking. This means that the physical discs and pads are used only rarely under heavy braking applications. The pedal’s weight is excellent, feeling strong and reassuring even under heavy use.
Brake regen can be adjusted through four modes (three via steering wheel paddles and a fourth via a ‘B’ mode on the drive selector) plus an adaptive setting, which we soon turned off because, like all too many systems of its type, we found it hard to predict. In the strongest regen mode, one-pedal driving is possible, and with it engaged, the Q6 pulls to a very smooth stop.
Country road driving and handling
At higher speeds, the Q6 e-tron impresses in some ways, but in others, we hoped for more. The air suspension, controlled by a new multi-link design at the front, works well on larger-frequency bumps, soothing passengers as it glides along the road. However, on uneven cambers or the subsided verges of a British back road, the Q6 becomes flustered.
