2025 Audi SQ6 e-Tron Review

The 2025 Audi SQ6 e-Tron is a big deal - not just because it's Audi’s latest electric SUV, but because it’s the first Audi in Australia built on the new PPE platform. It promises more power, better efficiency, and faster charging than previous e-Tron models, but at $151,400 before options, it's priced right in the crosshairs of serious competition like the BMW iX3 and Porsche Macan Electric. With 380 kW from its dual motors, a claimed 4.3-second 0-100 km/h time, and a high-tech interior filled with screens and customisable OLED lighting, Audi clearly wants this to feel like a next-generation EV.

But does it actually deliver? While there’s plenty to like—strong acceleration, impressive range, and premium cabin materials—it’s not without flaws. No lane centring assist, some questionable software decisions, and a high price tag might make some buyers think twice. So, is the SQ6 e-Tron worth your money, or are you better off looking elsewhere? Let’s find out.

How much does the 2025 Audi SQ6 e-Tron cost?

The Audi Q6 e-Tron lineup starts at $115,500 for the entry-level Performance variant, which comes with a single rear-mounted motor. Stepping up to the Q6 e-Tron Quattro, priced at $122,500, brings all-wheel drive with dual motors. Finally, the range-topping SQ6 e-Tron comes in at $151,400 before options.

2025 Audi Q6 e-Tron Pricing:

• Q6 e-Tron Performance - $115,500
• Q6 e-Tron quattro - $122,500
• SQ6 e-Tron - $151,400

Prices exclude on-road costs.

Sharp Design with Customisable Lighting

The SQ6 e-Tron makes an immediate impression with its futuristic styling. At the front, Audi’s signature single-frame grille is finished in black with body-coloured inserts, flanked by aggressive Matrix LED headlights that come standard across the range. A unique party trick is the customisable daytime running light signature, offering eight different configurations that can be adjusted via the infotainment screen—a first for Audi. Below, a large blacked-out lower bumper integrates seamlessly with the sculpted front end, housing the radar sensor for the vehicle’s adaptive cruise control system.

Moving to the side, the SQ6 e-Tron rides on striking 21-inch alloy wheels, featuring a five-spoke aerodynamic design wrapped in grippy Pirelli P-Zero tires. The sharp character lines give it a muscular stance, while black mirror caps and subtle SQ6 badging add to its sporty aesthetic. The model sits between the Q4 e-Tron and Q8 e-Tron in Audi’s lineup, offering a well-balanced size for those looking for something more substantial than the Q4 but not as bulky as the full-size Q8 e-Tron.

At the rear, Audi’s new digital OLED tail light technology takes centre stage, offering dynamic lighting effects and even an interactive safety feature that displays warning triangles if another vehicle follows too closely. The full-width LED light strip is reminiscent of the high-performance RS e-Tron GT, giving the SQ6 a high-tech and sporty feel. A subtle roof spoiler and a black lower bumper complete the look, reinforcing the car’s performance-focused design language.

Crucially, the Audi Q6 e-Tron is the first Audi model in Australia to be built on the all-new Premium Platform Electric (PPE), a dedicated EV architecture co-developed with Porsche. This platform underpins not only the Q6 e-Tron but also the new Porsche Macan Electric (review coming soon!), sharing cutting-edge battery technology and performance-oriented engineering. The PPE architecture allows for improved efficiency, weight distribution, and a lower centre of gravity.

Overall, the SQ6 e-Tron presents itself as a striking and futuristic electric SUV, blending Audi’s signature design elements with innovative lighting technology and a commanding road presence. While it leans heavily on modern aesthetics, it remains unmistakably Audi, ensuring it stands out among its EV rivals.

Cutting-Edge Tech and Premium Feel

Inside, the SQ6 e-Tron is a technological powerhouse, featuring a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen that integrates seamlessly with Audi’s 11.9-inch digital cockpit. The system is crisp, highly responsive, and runs on Audi’s latest MMI operating system. Adding to the digital experience is a 10.9-inch passenger display, which allows the front passenger to control media, navigation, and even watch videos without distracting the driver, thanks to a privacy filter.

One of the standout features is the augmented reality heads-up display (AR HUD), which projects navigation directions, speed limits, and driver assistance alerts onto the windshield. The AR HUD dynamically adjusts, placing information in the driver’s line of sight in a way that feels natural and reduces distraction. This system also incorporates predictive lane guidance, a feature particularly useful when navigating complex intersections.

Material quality is top-tier, as expected from Audi. The cabin is trimmed with a combination of Alcantara, carbon fibre inserts, and high-grade leather, giving it a distinctly premium feel. The quilted Nappa leather seats, embossed with the 'S' logo, are both comfortable and supportive, offering extensive power adjustment, heating, ventilation, and a massage function in the SQ6 trim. Buyers can also opt for a sportier red leather interior, an option I may consider if I were stretching the wallet all the way to the SQ6.

Climate controls are excellent, with a dedicated climate screen below the infotainment system that provides easy access to temperature adjustments, seat heating, and ventilation. Audi’s digital air vents allow users to control airflow direction electronically, which works fine, but I personally find it unnecessary when manual controls work just as well. The panoramic sunroof, which comes standard on the SQ6, adds an airy feel to the cabin and extends all the way over the rear seats, enhancing passenger comfort.

A particularly clever feature is the single-button shortcut to disable driver assistance systems, making it easy for those who prefer a more engaged driving experience to switch off intrusive aids. The Bang & Olufsen 16-speaker sound system delivers an immersive audio experience, with integrated headrest speakers available as an option for those wanting a truly personalised sound zone. With this level of technology, luxury, and attention to detail, the SQ6 e-Tron’s interior is among the most advanced and premium in the segment.

Spacious and Well-Appointed

Rear seat space in the Audi SQ6 e-Tron is generous, with ample legroom and headroom, even with the underfloor battery pack. Plush Nappa leather upholstery and well-padded cushions are fantastic, though definitely expected at this premium position in the market. The seating position is comfortable, avoiding the common 'knees-up' issue found in some EVs due to battery placement. The seat backs recline, adding an extra layer of comfort, particularly for extended journeys.

Passengers in the back also benefit from heated and ventilated rear seats, a luxury that isn’t always standard in this segment. The centre armrest houses integrated cupholders and a small storage compartment, making it convenient for rear occupants. Additional convenience features include dedicated rear climate controls, with vents placed both in the centre console and B-pillars for improved airflow. The panoramic glass sunroof, standard on the SQ6, extends over the rear seats, providing an airy and open feel to the cabin. Practical touches like map pockets, USB-C charging ports, and soft-touch materials further enhance the premium rear-seat experience, making this a comfortable space for both daily commuting and long-distance travel.

Spacious Boot and Frunk

The 526-litre boot is well-sized for a mid-size electric SUV, offering a practical and versatile cargo area. A false floor provides additional hidden storage, useful for keeping valuables out of sight. With the rear seats folding in a 40/20/40 configuration, the SQ6 e-Tron accommodates larger items while still allowing passengers to sit in the back. The total expanded cargo space figure has not been officially quoted by Audi, but it’s expected to be highly competitive for the segment.

Further adding to practicality, the SQ6 e-Tron comes with a 64-litre frunk (front trunk), providing a convenient space for storing charging cables, small bags, or emergency kits. It isn't the largest frunk in the class, but I'm glad it comes with it.

The power tailgate comes standard and features gesture control, allowing hands-free operation—perfect when carrying groceries or luggage. Additionally, the air suspension can be lowered at the press of a button to make loading and unloading easier. Audi has also included side storage compartments and cargo net hooks, ensuring smaller items don’t shift during transit. Overall, the SQ6 e-Tron balances practicality with thoughtful usability, making it well-suited for both daily commutes and long road trips.

Dual-Motor Power and Rapid Acceleration

The SQ6 e-Tron is powered by a dual-motor setup producing 380 kW, with 275 Nm of torque at the front axle and 580 Nm at the rear axle, delivering strong acceleration and impressive on-road performance. Audi claims a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4.3 seconds, and in our real-world testing, we actually achieved 4.24 seconds, even with only 29% battery charge. This performance puts it on par with some petrol-powered ultra high-performance SUVs, and its instant torque delivery makes it feel even quicker in daily driving.

Power for the SQ6 and Q6 Quattro is sent to all four wheels via Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, ensuring optimal grip and traction in all conditions. The rear-biased power delivery helps the car feel agile and engaging, particularly in dynamic driving situations. The adaptive air suspension plays a key role in performance, adjusting the ride height for better aerodynamics in efficiency mode and lowering the centre of gravity in dynamic mode to improve cornering stability.

The steering is progressive, adjusting its weight depending on the drive mode. While it is precise and direct, it doesn’t quite match the engagement of some rivals, such as the BMW iX3 or Porsche Macan Electric. However, it remains well-suited for spirited driving, and the all-wheel drive system ensures confidence in all road conditions. The chassis tuning, in combination with the PPE platform’s improved weight distribution, makes the SQ6 feel more agile than its size would suggest.

For a performance-focused EV, the SQ6 e-Tron delivers a well-rounded driving experience. While it may not be the sharpest handling SUV in its class, its blend of power, comfort, and instant acceleration makes it an excellent all-rounder.

First Audi in Australia on PPE Platform

The SQ6 e-Tron is the first Audi in Australia to be built on the PPE platform, an EV architecture that brings substantial improvements in performance, efficiency, and charging capabilities. The platform supports an 800-volt electrical system, allowing for significantly faster charging compared to previous Audi EVs.

The SQ6 e-Tron is equipped with a 100 kWh gross lithium-ion battery with 94.9 kWh usable capacity. It features an 800-volt architecture, enabling rapid DC fast charging up to 270 kW.

• Charging times: 10-80% in ~21 minutes at a fast charger.

• Maximum range: 568 km WLTP (real-world closer to 450 km based on mixed driving conditions).

• Energy consumption: Around 23 kWh/100 km in real-world testing.

One standout feature is Audi’s charging curve optimisation, which maintains a high charging rate for longer periods, reducing time spent at public chargers. Thanks to the PPE platform, the Q6 e-Tron also benefits from a more compact battery placement, resulting in better weight distribution and a lower centre of gravity, which improves handling and overall ride comfort.

Combined with Audi’s adaptive air suspension, this allows the SQ6 to lower itself when in efficiency mode, to get extra range.

Balanced Handling with Some Steering Trade-Offs

The moment you set off in the SQ6 e-Tron, it becomes clear that Audi has focused on making this a refined yet capable electric SUV. The first thing that stands out is the adaptive air suspension, which adjusts automatically based on drive mode. In dynamic mode, the suspension lowers, reducing body roll and sharpening handling, making the SQ6 feel much more composed than a traditional SUV of this size. The low centre of gravity, thanks to the PPE platform’s battery placement, further aids stability, giving the car a planted feel through corners. However, when switched to comfort mode, the suspension softens dramatically, soaking up road imperfections with ease and making the SQ6 an ideal grand tourer. The efficiency mode also plays a role in performance, further lowering the car to improve aerodynamics and maximise range.

Steering feel changes depending on drive mode as well. In comfort mode, the steering is light and effortless—perfect for city driving and parking. But when you switch to dynamic mode, the steering firms up, giving you a more connected feel with the road. While it's precise and predictable, I found that it lacks the level of engagement offered by rivals such as the Porsche Macan Electric or the BMW iX3. That said, Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system does an excellent job at maintaining traction, and with its rear-biased setup, the SQ6 feels surprisingly agile for its size, rotating through bends with confidence.

A notable highlight of the driving experience is the braking system, which integrates both regenerative and mechanical braking seamlessly. The transition between the two is smooth, avoiding the grabby feel that plagues some EVs. The paddle shifters allow you to adjust the level of regenerative braking, meaning you can tailor the driving experience to your preference—whether you want traditional coasting or something closer to one-pedal driving. This makes for an intuitive and highly customisable experience, particularly useful in city driving where frequent stopping is required.

For those considering the Q6 e-Tron Quattro, it's worth noting that it comes with frequency-dependent dampers as standard instead of air suspension. I spent some time in the Q6 quattro, and these dampers performed admirably, adjusting their stiffness based on road conditions to provide a balanced blend of comfort and handling. While they don’t offer the same adjustability as the air suspension in the SQ6, they are well-tuned and make the Q6 quattro a great option for those who don’t need the extra customisation.

One significant omission in the driving experience is the lack of lane centring assist. Audi claims this was due to calibration difficulties for Australian roads, but at this price point, it’s a glaring absence—especially when most competitors include it as standard. The lane departure warning system is functional but not as polished as expected, occasionally nudging the steering without consistently keeping the car centred in its lane.

Overall, the SQ6 e-Tron offers a well-rounded driving experience, blending comfort, performance, and daily usability. It may not be the sharpest-handling performance SUV, but it excels as an all-rounder, offering strong acceleration, a comfortable ride, and excellent all-weather capability.

Strong Safety Tech, But Missing Lane Centering

The Audi Q6 e-Tron range has been awarded a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, reinforcing its strong commitment to occupant protection and crashworthiness. Across the lineup, all variants come equipped with an extensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS):

Standard Safety Features:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Blind-Spot Monitoring
• Lane Departure Warning
• Traffic Sign Recognition
• Parking Assist with front and rear sensors
• 360-degree Surround View Camera
• Driver Attention Monitoring
• Rear Collision Warning
• Exit Warning System
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Q6 e-Tron Quattro (adds over Q6 e-Tron Performance):

• Side Assist
• Proactive Occupant Protection System
• Augmented Reality Head-Up Display
• Intersection Assist

SQ6 e-Tron (adds over Q6 e-Tron Quattro):

• Audi Pre-Sense Front & Rear
• Adaptive High-Beam Matrix LED Headlights
• Rear OLED Lighting with Dynamic Warning Indicators
• Active Lane departure Assist

One notable omission in the safety package, particularly for a vehicle at this price point, is Lane Centering Assist, which is commonly found in rival models, and even models far cheaper. While the Q6 range does include Lane Departure Warning with corrective steering, it does not provide full lane-keeping assistance, which would actively keep the vehicle centred within its lane over long distances. Audi has stated that this feature was not calibrated for Australian roads at launch, though future software updates may address this.

Comprehensive Warranty and Charging Perks

The Audi SQ6 e-Tron comes with a 5-year vehicle warranty, providing peace of mind for long-term ownership. Additionally, the 8-year/160,000 km battery warranty ensures the longevity and reliability of the electric drivetrain. Audi also includes 6 years of roadside assistance, offering support for unexpected breakdowns or emergencies. Buyers will also receive a 1-year free Chargefox charging subscription.

Servicing is required every 2 years or 30,000 km, which is a longer interval compared to many petrol or diesel-powered vehicles, reducing overall maintenance visits. This makes the SQ6 relatively cost-effective in terms of servicing, especially when combined with the lack of traditional engine maintenance.

What do you get with the Audi Q6 e-Tron range?

Q6 e-Tron Performance (Base Model):

• 19-inch alloy wheels
• Matrix LED headlights
• Heated, folding, and auto-dimming side mirrors
• Front sport seats in leather-appointed upholstery
• Electric tailgate
• Four-way electric lumbar front seat support
• Heated front and rear outboard seats
• Heated steering wheel
• Three-zone climate control
• Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
• White ambient interior lighting
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto
• 10-speaker audio system
• Digital radio
• 14.5-inch touch display, 10.9-inch passenger touch display
• 11.9-inch virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster
• Four USB ports
• Wireless phone charging

Q6 e-Tron Quattro (Adds over Q6 Performance):

• Front sport seats in leather-appointed upholstery with embossed S logo
• Front door sill trims illuminated with S logo
• Stainless steel driving pedals
• Black headlining

SQ6 e-Tron (Adds over Q6 Quattro):

• Digital OLED rear lights
• Acoustic glazing for front door windows
• Privacy glass
• Panoramic glass sunroof
• Nappa leather seat trim
• Front seat ventilation
• 30-colour ambient interior lighting
• Electrically adjustable steering column
• 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system
• Augmented reality head-up display
• Four USB ports with higher charging capacity

Optional Extras:

Tech Pro Package ($4,900):

• Adaptive air suspension
• Electrically adjustable steering column
• Digital OLED tail-lights

Premium Package ($8,900):

• Panoramic sunroof (electrically opening)
• Augmented reality head-up display
• Bang & Olufsen sound system
• 30-colour ambient interior lighting
• Higher charging capacity USB ports
• Acoustic glazing for front windows

Style Pack ($5,500):

• S line exterior styling
• 20-inch Audi Sport alloy wheels
• Black exterior package
• Matrix LED headlights
• 21-inch alloy wheels
• Nappa leather seats with massage function
• 14.5-inch infotainment + 11.9-inch virtual cockpit
• Augmented reality heads-up display
• 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system
• Adaptive air suspension

Final Thoughts on the 2025 Audi SQ6 e-Tron

The Audi SQ6 e-Tron is an ambitious entry into the premium electric SUV segment, blending high performance with cutting-edge technology and a premium interior. It delivers a smooth yet powerful driving experience, thanks to its dual-motor setup producing 380 kW, and an adaptive air suspension system that balances comfort with dynamic capability. The first Audi in Australia to be built on the PPE platform, it benefits from rapid 800V charging, enabling a 10-80% recharge in just 21 minutes, and a competitive range of up to 568 km (WLTP). The interior is packed with class-leading tech, including a 14.5-inch infotainment system, a 10.9-inch passenger display, and an augmented reality heads-up display that projects navigation directions onto the road ahead.

However, despite these strengths, the SQ6 e-Tron isn't without flaws. One of the most surprising omissions is the lack of lane centering assist, a feature found in many rivals, which Audi attributes to calibration challenges for Australian roads. The steering feel, while precise, lacks the engagement of performance-focused competitors like the Porsche Macan Electric. Additionally, while the cabin quality is excellent, Audi's software still has some quirks, with occasional infotainment bugs and a somewhat intrusive driver assistance system.

For buyers seeking a refined and luxurious EV with strong straight-line performance and advanced tech, the SQ6 e-Tron is a compelling option. However, if sharp handling and top-tier driver aids are higher priorities, alternatives like the BMW iX3 or Porsche Macan Electric may offer a more engaging experience.

Ultimately, if you're in the market for any new car, including the Audi SQ6 e-Tron, CarSauce Buy can help you find the best deal with no haggling and nationwide dealership access. Get started today and let us secure the best price for your next vehicle!