The final taillights and lower grille are missing, but it seems to still have the production design.
In a November 2020 document, the Volkswagen Group refers to Audi’s new electric SUV as the Q5E-Tron. This was confusingly. Audi CEO Markus Duessman revealed earlier this month that the model will be called the “Q6 Etron” and will go into production at the Ingolstadt plant in Germany in 2022.
After the name dispute has been resolved, our spy team spotted the zero-emissions SUV in testing while it was carrying what appears to be the production body. These basic-looking taillights may be temporary, but they should still match the shape on the road-going vehicle. Although we aren’t sure if the camouflage is causing the problem, there may be an LED strip running between them on the tailgate.
The Audi Q6 E-Tron will have a larger size than the Q4 E-Tron, while being smaller than the E-Tron. The three smaller electric SUVs will all use different platforms. The Q4 E-Tron, which is the first to use the Porsche-developed PPE architecture, will be riding on the same platform as the Volkswagen ID.4. The larger Etron is based on the MLB Evo platform, which was originally designed for cars with internal combustion engines. It has been adapted for all-electric propulsion.
The prototype does not have the lower grille, where the radar for adaptive cruise control is located. This is a common problem with other Audi models. We expect a large wheelbase and a spacious interior that is comparable to an ICE-powered SUV in the same segment.
It’s still too early to make a judgment about the design of the Q6 E-Tron, as it is heavily camouflaged. We are getting the impression that it will not be a significant change to the Q4 E-Tron’s design. The wraps will be removed mid-April. A more sleeker Sportback sibling will be born from the smaller of the two electric SUVs. However, it’s too soon to know if Audi has similar plans for its Q6.
PPE will offer several advantages over MEB, according to the VW Group. These include rear-wheel steering and torque vectoring. Air suspension will also be available. Also, support for fast charging at 350 kW. There are several battery packs, as well as single- and double-motor sets that provide rear- and all-wheel drives, respectively. The next generation Porsche Macan will be available exclusively in electric flavors and will share many components with the Q6 Etron.
They will be unveiled in 2022, further strengthening the VW Group’s ever expanding EV portfolio.