I have some reservations about the new Audi A6 eTron, particularly regarding its underlying EV powertrain and its design language. It looks more like a Mondeo than an Audi, though Audi’s communications department claims the new A6 eTron features an “evocative design.” However, I will set aside my personal opinions and focus on the facts. The A6 e-tron is Audi’s first purely electric model available as both a Sportback and an Avant.

Two versions of the A6 e-tron will be available at launch: the A6 Sportback/Avant e-tron Performance and the S6 Sportback/Avant e-tron. The A6 eTron Performance models offer a system output of up to 367 PS (270 kW) and are rear-wheel drive. The A6 eTron Performance accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 5.4 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph.

Standard equipment includes with 20-inch five-twin-spoke wheels, while the S line features 20-inch “five-spoke tripod” wheels. The S6 eTron includes 21-inch wheels as standard. The interior boasts an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit OLED display, a 14.5-inch MMI touch display, and a 10.9-inch MMI front passenger display.

The A6 eTron is powered by an 800-volt electric architecture. Its electric motors and a lithium-ion battery with a total gross capacity of 100 kWh (94.9 kWh net) ensure a range of over 450 miles for the A6 Sportback e-tron and over 430 miles for the A6 Avant e-tron. However, it’s worth noting that manufacturer-quoted electric ranges are often optimistic, with actual ranges typically falling short by at least 25-30 percent.

Thanks to the 800-volt technology and a maximum DC charging capacity of 270 kW as standard, short charging stops are feasible with the Audi A6 eTron. The A6 Sportback e-tron Performance can be recharged at a suitable High Power Charging (HPC) station to provide a range of up to 192 miles in just 10 minutes.

The optional adaptive air suspension—an air suspension system with controlled damping—offers a wide range of ride comfort and sporty handling. It adapts to specific road conditions based on speed and individual preferences and regulates the body’s ride height at four different levels.

The interior will be packed with advanced technology, too much to detail here. The A6 eTron’s infotainment system will run on Android Auto. UK pricing and specifications will not be confirmed until September 2nd, but speculation suggests a starting price of around £65,000 for the entry-level A6 Sportback.