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A sportier Q6 e-tron arrives in Australia
Audi Australia has quietly published full pricing and specification details for the new Q6 Sportback e-tron range, including the RWD and quattro variants and the high-performance SQ6 Sportback e-tron. Launched for the 2025 model year and built on Audi's next-generation PPE architecture, the Sportback body adds a lower, sleeker profile to the compact luxury electric crossover formula. With rivals such as the new BMW iX3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology debuting at global auto shows, Audi’s timing positions the Q6 Sportback e-tron as a direct competitor in the premium electric SUV segment.
Pricing and model lineup in Australia
Audi has announced three Sportback models for the Australian market:
Q6 Sportback e-tron RWD — From AUD 99,900 (MLP)
The entry Sportback is rear-wheel drive with a single electric motor on the rear axle. It produces up to 215 kW (288 hp) with launch control and can accelerate from 0–62 mph in around seven seconds. This model offers the core e-tron experience—ample performance, efficient electric range and premium tech—at the most accessible entry price for the Sportback shape.
Q6 Sportback e-tron quattro — From AUD 127,500 (MLP)
The mid-tier Sportback adds a second motor for all-wheel drive, raising combined output to 285 kW (382 hp). That extra traction and power trims the 0–62 mph sprint to roughly 5.9 seconds and improves all-weather usability without compromising the long-distance capability expected from a premium electric crossover.
SQ6 Sportback e-tron — Flagship performance
At the top of the range, the SQ6 Sportback delivers 380 kW (510 hp) with launch control and a quoted 0–62 mph time of approximately 4.3 seconds. The SQ6 adds S-specific styling, larger Audi Sport wheels, upgraded brakes and interior upgrades to assert its performance-oriented character.
Performance, range and charging
All Q6 Sportback variants sit on Audi’s PPE (Premium Platform Electric) architecture and take advantage of an 800-volt electrical system for high-speed charging. The WLTP-rated electric range for the Sportback reaches up to 585 km, depending on trim and driving conditions. Fast charging capability is strong: the system supports peak charging power of up to 270 kW, enabling a 10–80% charge in roughly 21 minutes under optimal conditions.
Beyond headline power figures, the RWD model emphasizes efficiency and relaxed performance, the quattro configuration balances sportiness with traction and all-season control, while the SQ6 focuses on dynamic driving with firmer suspension tuning, more aggressive torque delivery and sportier chassis calibrations.
Design and exterior features
The Sportback silhouette lowers the roofline and sharpens the rear taper compared with the regular Q6 SUV, giving the vehicle a coupe-like, dynamic appearance without sacrificing the crossover’s practicality. Exterior highlights across the range include matrix LED headlights with configurable digital light signatures and available OLED rear lighting on the SQ6.
SQ6-specific cues include 21-inch Audi Sport wheels, red-painted brake calipers and bespoke S-badging. The lower roofline, pronounced wheel arches and contrasting aerodynamic elements help the Sportback stand out in a competitive luxury EV field.
Interior, technology and practicality
Inside, the Q6 Sportback e-tron blends premium materials with a digital-first interface. Key standard features include:
- 14.5-inch MMI touch display for infotainment
- 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit behind the steering wheel
- Dedicated 10.9-inch front passenger display
- Tri-zone climate control
- e-tron sport sound system
Practical touches include a 64-liter front trunk (frunk) and a flexible cargo area, despite the Sportback’s sloping roof. The SQ6 adds sport front seats and performance-oriented interior trim to emphasize driver engagement.
Safety and driver assistance
While Audi has not outlined every standard ADAS item in the Australian release, the Q6 Sportback e-tron inherits the brand’s suite of driver assistance systems common to modern e-tron models: multiple driver aids for highway and urban environments, advanced parking aids, and integrated safety technology designed to complement the car’s electric powertrain and chassis dynamics.
Market positioning and competitors
Audi positions the Q6 Sportback e-tron as a premium compact electric crossover that balances everyday usability, long-range capability and a distinctive sporty design. In Australia it will compete directly with the newly introduced BMW iX3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology. Compared with the iX3 and GLC-EQ alternatives, the Q6 Sportback offers:
- A sleeker Sportback silhouette for buyers seeking a more coupe-like SUV
- Competitive WLTP range figures up to 585 km
- An 800-volt charging architecture with industry-leading fast-charge times
- Audi’s digital cockpit and passenger-facing display package, which emphasize a high-tech cabin experience
For buyers prioritizing outright performance, the SQ6’s 380 kW output and sub-4.5-second 0–62 mph time put it in rarefied territory for compact luxury electric crossovers.
Why Australia matters for Audi's EV strategy
By releasing full specs and local pricing ahead of—or parallel to—major European model debuts, Audi Australia makes a statement about availability and market readiness. The Sportback variant allows Audi to appeal to customers who want a more dynamic design without moving up to a larger or more expensive segment, and the range and charging capabilities address one of the most common buying considerations for electric vehicle shoppers.
Conclusion — A compelling Sportback for premium EV buyers
The Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron family brings a sportier, coupe-inspired option to the growing premium electric SUV market. With a broad spread of powertrains—from efficient single-motor RWD to the high-powered SQ6—the line-up is designed to satisfy buyers across the performance and practicality spectrum. Competitive pricing in Australia, combined with the PPE platform’s long-range capability and rapid charging times, make the Q6 Sportback e-tron a strong contender for buyers comparing it against the BMW iX3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology.
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