It has a freshness, a newness you’ve never experienced in previous Audis. That’s because the Q6 e-tron isn’t just another Audi, but a pivotal moment in the brand’s transformation to electric mobility. The heart of the Q6-etron is the PPE (for Premium Performance Electric) platform, which is shared with the Porsche Macan EV and comes with the latest software, super-efficient electric motors, an energy-dense battery, and crucially, an 800V architecture (for faster charging and improved efficiency) to take the game ahead of German luxury EV rivals.

The battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in under 21 minutes and every 10 minutes of charge can give 255km of range. However, in India, these figures are academic. To achieve these charging speeds. you’ll need a 270kW charger, which you just don’t get.

The Q6 e-tron’s cabin is a quantum jump ahead of previous Audis and the highlight is the feature-packed infotainment system. It’s powered by software that has taken years to develop. There are five high-performance computers on board to smoothly and swiftly run the mind boggling number of functions and features.

Audi’s long-in-the-tooth virtual monochromatic instrument cluster has been replaced by a massive free-standing curved screen that houses an 11.9-inch instrument cluster, and 14.5-inch infotainment touch-display. In addition, there’s an optional 10.9-inch screen for the front passenger (and not visible to the driver) to watch videos or just play games.

The number of features and function are a bit overwhelming at first, but the menus and sub-menus are logically laid out with drop-down tabs. The most frequently used functions can be moved to the fixed side-display. Audi encourages you to use one of the 800 voice commands as an easier way to get the job done.

The front seats are meticulously bolstered to give you the right amount of support, but the rear seat is not as plush as I would have liked, with a back rest that’s a touch too upright.

No complaints about luggage space, which is quite generous, and the 64 litre frunk (for front trunk) is very useful for smaller items and your charging cables.

Giving the Q6 e-tron a sci-fi feel is the Augmented Reality (AR) heads-up display, which is the best in the business. I loved the clarity of the numbers, the real-time display of SatNav directions, warning displays when you’re too close to the vehicle front or straying from your lane. Keeping you on the straight and narrow in an effortless and safe way is what the Q6 e-tron is all about.

Floor the accelerator pedal and there’s no snappy burst of power typical of many EVs. Instead, what you get is a measured and strong surge to make your drive rapid and stress-free.

If you want more excitement, the sportier 516hp SQ6 e-tron is the one to have. It can whoosh to 100kph in just 4.3 seconds and is more engaging and entertaining to drive on a twisty road.

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