Could Audi’s new electrified powerhouse tempt existing RS6 owners?
by Josh Burns
2 hours ago
- Audi is preparing to launch the electric RS6 Sportback e-tron, a high-performance version of the upcoming A6 e-tron.
- This electric powerhouse features an 800-volt system, a 100 kWh battery with a potential range of up to 435 miles, and a power output rumored to be 805 horsepower.
- The RS6 e-tron will compete with high-performance electric and hybrid sedans such as the new BMW M5 PHEV and Mercedes-AMG EQE.
Audi is preparing to join the electric arms race with the RS6 Sportback e-tron. Based on the new A6 e-tron, this model aims to complement the traditional internal-combustion-powered RS6 (slated to be renamed RS7).
More: What we know about the 2027 Acura TLX electric sedan
The RS6 Sportback e-tron was recently captured by our spies racing around the Nürburgring, and it’s almost ready for the big reveal with all its production-ready elements. Our video preview delves into everything we discovered about this exciting powerhouse.
Amplified aesthetics
Similar to the A6 e-tron Sportback, the RS6 version has a muscular appearance. It features an assertive front fascia featuring Audi’s iconic “Singleframe” grille, intricate honeycomb patterns on the lower air intakes, and sleek, fin-like horizontal air vents below the separate LED headlights.
Other features include large alloy wheels highlighted by red brake calipers, pronounced side skirts, and an aerodynamic front lip splitter. The rear is dominated by a large diffuser and traditional side mirrors, replacing the previous side cameras, along with a full-width OLED headlight cluster.
Dynamic interior design
Inside, the cabin will reflect the design and spaciousness of the A6 e-tron Sportback and Avant, and features a flat floor design to enhance spaciousness. Although we haven’t gotten a look at the interior yet, Audi has released a teaser of the interior of the A6 e-tron concept in 2021, which features a minimalist design with a separate dual-screen layout.
However, with the production model, Audi could lean more towards the design of the newly introduced Q6 e-tron. This model features a stylish and elegant interior with two vibrant OLED displays, an 11.9-inch digital gauge cluster and a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, housed under a single curved frame, as well as an optional 10.9-inch touchscreen for the passenger, all of which support wireless connectivity and Android connectivity. Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Additional features should include an augmented reality head-up display and dynamic ambient lighting, enhancing functionality and ambiance.
More: Everything we know about the 2025 Audi A6 Avant E-Tron
The RS6 e-tron will feature model-specific digital displays, along with a host of sporty upgrades to differentiate itself from its smaller siblings. These include a three-spoke steering wheel, bucket seats decorated with contrasting red stitching, and matching decorative elements throughout the interior.
Personal protective equipment platform
The RS6 Sportback e-tron is built on the Volkswagen Group’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE), which is shared with the Porsche Macan EV. It features an 800-volt system and a powerful 100 kWh battery, capable of a range of 435 miles (700 km) under the WLTP cycle (in lower variants – the RS6 will likely have less range).
The build supports DC fast charging at up to 270 kW, quickly alleviating any range concerns. The platform also integrates a sport-oriented adaptive damping system and air suspension to ensure a smooth and comfortable driving experience.
Strong power
While the standard A6 e-tron offers different engine configurations, including a single base engine and a dual motor with 469 hp (350 kW / 476 hp) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque achieving a 0-100 km/h speed. (62 mph) in less than four seconds, the RS6 is expected to push the limits even further.
Rumors suggest it will boast an impressive 805 PS (600 kW / 816 hp) with power delivered to all four wheels via Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system.
Competitors and detection
In the high-performance electric sedan segment, the 2025 Audi RS6 Sportback e-tron will compete with formidable rivals like BMW’s upcoming (and partially electrified) M5 and Mercedes-AMG’s EQE 53 sedan, among others.
Speculation suggests that Audi is planning to unveil the RS6 Sportback e-tron and its Avant counterpart later this year as part of the 2025 lineup. Sales are expected to begin in the latter half of 2025.
Would you prefer the electric RS6 e-tron over its V8-powered counterpart? Share your opinions in the comments below.
NB: The illustrations in this story are not affiliated with or endorsed by Audi.
