First Drive: The 2025 Audi A6 and S6 e-tron 

When it comes to Audi’s all-new A6 and S6 e-tron, you might say resistance is futile. With a drag coefficient of just 0.23 Cd, the A6 Sportback e-tron moves through the air more efficiently than nearly any production sedan in its class. And with all-new design, cutting-edge technology, and unmatched performance, customers may find these models just as hard to resist.

Thanks to Audi of America, we recently spent some time behind the wheel of the all-new A6 and S6 e-tron on the scenic roads surrounding Santa Barbara, CA. For this First Drive review, we’ll focus on initial driving impressions — with a more comprehensive review to come in the Q4 issue of quattro magazine.

The A6 Sportback e-tron quattro delivers a compelling 422 horsepower — or 456 horsepower with launch control — propelling the car from 0–60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. The S6 variant offers 496 horsepower (543 with launch control) and hits 0–60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. During our drive, we clocked the A6 e-tron at 4.2 seconds and the S6 e-tron at 3.7 seconds. Special thanks to our co-driver, Michael Palmer, for providing his Dragy tool to record these metrics. Acceleration is instant, seamless, and whisper-quiet, thanks to acoustic glass on the windshield and front side windows.

Both models we tested featured adaptive air suspension — available only on Prestige trim for the A6, but standard in sport configuration on the S6. Each model delivered confident grip and engaging dynamics, whether carving through tight switchbacks or accelerating down a straightaway. Body roll is minimal on both during turn-in, though the S6 feels noticeably more planted. It strikes a superb balance between luxury and performance, proving that Audi’s performance EVs can still deliver thrills without compromise.

Range anxiety becomes a thing of the past with the A6 Sportback e-tron. While we didn’t get the chance to drive the base model, the single-motor rear-wheel-drive version equipped with the ultra® package achieves an EPA-estimated 392 miles — the longest range of any Audi to date. Even the dual-motor quattro model manages an impressive 377 miles, while the high-output S6 delivers a solid 324 miles despite its performance-tuned configuration.

Audi’s advanced 800-volt electrical architecture allows DC fast charging up to 270 kW, enabling a 10–80% charge in just 21 minutes. It’s a recharge speed that redefines road trip planning — and places the A6 e-tron in a class of its own when it comes to practicality and convenience.

A key factor in the A6’s exceptional range is its aerodynamic design. With a drag coefficient of 0.23 Cd, the A6 Sportback e-tron leads its segment. Every line, vent, and underbody element is optimized for minimal resistance — and maximum visual impact.

Whether it’s the long-distance capability of the A6 or the high-performance prowess of the S6, Audi’s newest e-tron models confidently establish themselves as leaders in the luxury EV space. The driving experience is quiet and composed, the range sets new benchmarks, and the design stands out in a segment too often defined by bland minimalism.

For drivers seeking a zero-compromise EV that looks as good as it drives — and can go the distance with confidence — the 2025 Audi A6 and S6 Sportback e-tron delivers in full.

All images below provided by Audi of America unless noted otherwise.