Audi SQ6 Sportback E-tron

How it looks when you see on the street:The Audi SQ6 E-tron adds a bit of electric spice to the standard small SUV that dominates urban and suburban America. In expressive Sportback form the deep wedges on the red-lined grille cut a slick form that make it stand out. Why Sportback? It stands out and nails a more expressive exterior design, but you’ll also find the SQ6 in a more  conventional penny loafer version, too. Audi skipped over 2026 and released the 2027 model so you can, too, can live in the future. 

How it makes you feel when you get in: It’s a choice interior, a space where Audi has been a longtime segment leader, and where Audi started with the vehicle design. Makes sense, since that’s where we spend most of our time. The setup includes Audi’s MMI 14.5-inch touch display navigation system and has a nice pop with natural light streaming in through the panoramic sunroof. Digital eyes are everywhere with rear cross traffic, front and rear parking sensors, and blind spot warning. The Bang & Olufsen sound system is equipped with all-encompassing 3D sound and head rest speakers augment the head-up display. It’s a marvel of sensors and LED interior lights everywhere.

How it drives:  It shares its underpinnings with Porsche Macan, aka the Premium Platform Electric, the VW group’s one-size all EV platform for this class. It uses a 94.3 kilowatt battery pack that Audi says charge from 10 to 80 percent in 21 minutes using a fast charter in ideal conditions.  It zooms from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.8 seconds and produces 510 horsepower. We had adaptive cruise assist as part of the Prestige Package. The range is estimated at 275ish miles.  

Space for people and things: It’s identical to the SQ6, has a midsize trunk, and a small “frunk” in the front. 

What to compare it to: Porsche Macan, Mercedes-Benz EQE, BMWiX, Cadillac Optiq

How much does it cost: The base price is $76,300 and with options our tester came out to $85,795.