Audi Q6 e-tron takes huge leap forward with cutting-edge technology

They claim, as you would expect, new levels of performance, range, charging, driving dynamics and design.

Irish prices haven’t been announced yet, but expect to pay around €85,000 for mid-range model. Audi is taking orders from next month.

It is the first production model to be built on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE), which was jointly developed with Porsche so it should be a seriously ­dynamic drive.

As well as compact electric motors, a new lithium-ion battery (100 kWh) ­permits a claimed range of up to 625km.

There is a system output of 285kW for the Q6, with the SQ6 etron developing up to 380kW. The all-wheel Q6 quattro accelerates from 0 to 100kmh in 5.9 seconds, while the SQ 6 takes just 4.3 seconds.

Initially there will be those two ­models – with all-wheel drive. These will be followed by two “particularly efficient” rear-wheel drive models, which will effectively be the entry-level versions. Of the two, one will be designed for efficiency and range, while the other looks like it will be price-sensitive.

The charging facilities look impressive: 800V technology and a maximum charging capacity of 270kW as standard means you can get up to 255km in 10 minutes with the Q6 e-tron (High Power Charging, HPC).

Charging is fully automatic. If a charging station works with 400V ­technology, the Q6 for the first time can enable bank charging. This means the 800V battery is automatically divided into two batteries at equal voltage. So, they can be charged in parallel with up to 135kW. AC charging with up to 11kW is possible at standard home chargers.

Around 95pc of everyday braking processes can be handled by the recuperation system.

The midsize SUV slots in between the Q4 e-tron and the Q8 e-tron, with rivals including the BMW iX3 and Jaguar i-Pace. It is 4,771mm long, 1,993mm wide and 1,648mm tall. The 2,899mm wheelbase with short overhangs means there should be plenty of legroom in the second row of seats.

Audi claims a world first in active digital light signature (OLED).

Inside, there is an MMI panoramic and passenger display. The slim, free-standing panoramic screen has a curved design and OLED technology; there is an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit and 14.5-inch MMI touch display.

There is also a 10.9-inch front passenger display with Active Privacy Mode, which prevents it from distracting the driver while on the move. So, the front passenger can stream films or video content, or assist with navigation.

There are 526 litres of luggage space and that extends to 1,529 litres if the rear seats are folded. There are 64 litres in the frunk (front trunk).

The new voice assistant understands more than 800 voice commands. It learns continuously based on user behaviour. It helps with proactive suggestions, smart routines – it automatically recognises recurring operating sequences, such as using the seat climate control – and intelligent lists such as phone numbers. Your spoken commands are also shown on the display.

The new infotainment system uses Android Automotive for the first time and is kept up to date by over-the-air updates. The Bang & Olufsen premium sound system powers 20 loudspeakers with 830 watts. Four of those are integrated into the headrests of the front seats, enabling sound zones in an Audi for the first time.

In terms of driving, it is claimed to be lively thanks to new steering and torque distribution and PPE platform. Most of the chassis’ elements are newly developed, with the front axle partially redesigned.

Standard spec includes parking aid-plus, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, efficiency assist, active front assist and a distraction and drowsiness warning system.

Interesting little snippet: the bodywork components for the Q6 are made by 328 employees a shift and 1,150 robots: that’s automation of 87pc.