Audi is gearing up for significant additions to its Q6 E-Tron lineup, fresh off the international media’s first-drive preview of its midsize EV crossover. While detailed impressions are embargoed until July 1st, Audi executives have confirmed two forthcoming expansions: the Q6 E-Tron Sportback and a high-performance RS version, likely named the RS Q6 E-Tron.
The introduction of the Q6 E-Tron Sportback is not entirely unexpected, as we’ve already seen spy shots of the camouflaged model that had surfaced earlier. However, during the Q6 E-Tron’s launch event, Audi provided the clearest glimpse yet of the Sportback variant through a dark-colored teaser shown to the media, signaling “more to come.”
While looking, the Q6 E-Tron Sportback appears to enhance the existing Q6 E-Tron design with a sleek, sloping roofline, typical of Audi’s Sportback models. But the aesthetic transformation promises to add a dynamic flair to the otherwise practical and upright crossover. If the Sportback follows the design success of the Q4 and Q8 Sportback, it could become the most visually appealing iteration yet.
Additionally, Audi confirmed the development of the RS Q6 E-Tron. Both the Sportback and the RS version are expected to debut next year. Details on the RS Q6 E-Tron’s specifications remain scarce, but Audi assures it will offer a substantial upgrade over the SQ6 E-Tron. Given that the Q6 E-Tron shares the PPE platform with the Porsche Macan EV, there’s speculation that the RS variant could rival the Porsche Macan EV Turbo’s 630 horsepower, though Porsche is unlikely to allow Audi to surpass it in performance.
The PPE platform is set to play a crucial role in Audi’s electric future. Audi plans to transition even-numbered models like the A4, A6, and Q8 to fully electric platforms, while odd-numbered models will remain combustion-based. The next fully electric model on the PPE platform will be a new A6, further emphasizing Audi’s shift towards electrification.
Audi also confirmed that both the RS Q6 E-Tron and Q6 E-Tron Sportback are likely to be available in the US market. More details about these models will be unveiled soon, with the Q6 E-Tron Sportback expected to arrive first.
