With the reduction—or outright disappearance—of tax credits to offset their up-front costs, electric vehicles now need to make a compelling argument to capture the attention of those who are still on the EV fence.
In the case of the comfortably sized, powerful, and long-range-capable Audi A6 Sportback e-tron, they’ll find an ahead-of-the-curve electric machine whose performance and luxury touches keep pace with the brand’s gasoline-powered models, with prices starting at about $66,000. Better yet, it’s still a sleek, low-to-the-ground car, with more Autobahn-bred driving and handling acumen than a taller SUV.
While its slipstreamed face, distinctive LED headlamps, and sculpted haunches help ensure futuristic efficiency, the 194-inch-long A6 Sportback’s most ski-or-biking-weekend-friendly attribute is its integrated rear liftgate. Underneath, you’ll find a crossover-inspired 26 to 40 cubic feet of gear storage, especially if you drop the copious rear seats.
In its maximum-range, rear-wheel-drive configuration, the A6 e-tron offers a brand-leading 392-mile range that proves just slightly optimistic when used on mountain passes, but holds its power on Front Range outings and can be maximized with four recuperative braking modes.
The RWD’s 375-hp, single-electric-motor rendition is robust enough for five-second 0-60 times, though dedicated resort travelers will probably defer to the 456-hp stickiness of the dual-motor Quattro setup. And for leftlane enthusiasts, a 543-hp S6 model optimizes playful boost; all three grades share the same fast-charge-capable 100-kilowatt-hour battery and distinctive home-and-away charging ports on either side of the cabin.
A curved, 26-inch instrument and infotainment display gives you active access to the A6’s advanced range of driving safety features, with a color head-up display and an optional 10.9-inch passenger-side screen for full data immersion. You’ll also marvel at the electrically dimmable, full-cabin sunroof.
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