Audi has been working on the upcoming Q6 e-tron for a while now, but a new set of spy photos suggest that the automaker could be preparing a performance variant possibly bearing the S or the RS emblem.
Two prototypes of the Q6 e-tron with a different bodykit featuring some sporty bits have been spied testing on public roads, sparking rumors about a sportier trim. The prototypes can be seen driving alongside a BMW iX for benchmarking.
See Also: 2023 Audi Q6 E-Tron Spied Showing Citroen-Style Dual Headlights
The front bumper retains the grille-less design but features RS-style intakes below the split headlights. Larger diameter wheels are hiding beefier brakes with red calipers and while the camouflage is hiding the details, we could imagine the plastic cladding around the bodywork being body-colored for a sportier look.
The Audi Q6 e-tron will be based on the PPE architecture that was developed alongside Porsche and will also be used for the fully electric Macan. This means that Audi Sport engineers will easily extract great levels of performance from the underpinnings.
Increased power output from the dual electric motor layout and a sharper chassis setup is a safe bet for the rumored RS variant. The latest rumors are suggesting around 500-600 hp, making for a fitting competitor to the Maserati Grecale Folgore and the BMW iX M60. The same powertrain could be used in the heavily rumored RS6 e-tron based on the recently revealed A6 e-tron Avant concept that is also sitting on the PPE platform.
The regular range of the Q6 e-tron is expected to debut before the end of 2022. We don’t know yet if Audi chooses to unveil the RS variant together with the base model or keep it under wraps for a later reveal in 2023.
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