Audi S6 Sportback E-tron review: The fast electric sedan returns

The 2027 Audi S6 Sportback E-tron has emerged as a significant contender in the electric vehicle sector, demonstrating that the sedan body style retains considerable relevance in the current automotive landscape. The vehicle is built on 800V architecture and features a 100kWh battery, with a net capacity of 94.4kWh. This configuration supports a peak power output of 543 horsepower, primarily generated by the rear motor, enabling the car to accelerate from 0 to 60mph in 3.7 seconds.

Priced at a starting point of US$80,895, the S6 Sportback E-tron competes directly with established rivals such as the BMW i5 M60. While the BMW model offers approximately 50 more horsepower and a similar acceleration time, the Audi provides a peak range of 326 miles, which is roughly 45 miles greater than its German counterpart. The BMW, however, commands a higher price point.

Charging performance is a key feature of the vehicle, with Audi claiming a 10 to 80 percent charge in as little as 21 minutes. In real-world testing, the vehicle achieved peak charging rates of 270kW and 194kW at Electrify America stations. For slower charging scenarios, the car supports a 240V level 2 setup at 9.6kW, which takes approximately 11.5 hours to fully charge.

The review highlighted a balance between comfort and performance, noting that the vehicle’s multi-link suspension and sport-tuned air suspension handle urban and highway driving with ease. The interior includes a 14.5-inch central infotainment screen and optional luxury features, such as a front passenger display and premium interior materials. Cargo volume ranges from 26 to 39 cubic feet, facilitated by a large hatch design.

Despite its capabilities, the vehicle’s real-world range varies based on driving conditions. During a 295-mile test drive in the Los Angeles area, which included urban, highway, and mountain segments, the average efficiency was 2.4 miles per kWh, resulting in a real-world range of 226.56 miles. The car weighs over 5,200 pounds, and its steering ratio of 16.4:1 provides direct response, though it feels lighter in town than at highway speeds.

Audi’s launch of the S6 Sportback E-tron occurs amidst a strategic shift in the brand’s propulsion plans. The company has moved away from its previous target of becoming all-electric by 2033, opting instead for a mixed strategy that includes gasoline, hybrid, and electrified vehicles. This approach reflects broader uncertainty among major automakers regarding long-term electric commitments.