- The RS6 e-tron has been spied undergoing testing on and around the Nürburgring.
- The model shares a number of cues with the upcoming RS Q6 e-tron including front fender vents and a similar bumper.
- The standard A6 e-tron will debut this summer and we can expect the RS6 to arrive later.
The future of performance is coming into focus as the Audi RS6 e-tron has been spied wearing less camouflage than ever before. In fact, this particular prototype looks virtually production-ready.
That’s a big step and we can see the model will have an expressive front fascia with a wide lower intake that is flanked by vertical air curtains. If the design looks familiar, it should as the RS Q6 Sportback e-tron was recently spied with a similar bumper.
More: Audi A6 E-Tron Arrives This Summer As Brand Plans To Rejuvenate Lineup
Sticking up front, there’s a pronounced chin as well as split lighting units. We can also expect a fully enclosed grille with a prominent four-ring logo.
As we move further back, we can see lightweight wheels that are backed up by a high-performance braking system. The model also has front fender vents, which echo those found on the aforementioned crossover.
Rounding out the highlights are sporty side skirts, flush-mounted door handles, and a sport-tuned suspension with what appears to be a reduced ride height. We can also see a relatively tame rear end with slender taillights and a sizable diffuser.
SH Proshots and Baldauf
Spy photographers haven’t gotten a good look inside, but the model could follow in the footsteps of the Q6 e-tron. That remains to be seen, but the crossover has an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch infotainment system, and a 10.9-inch front passenger display. We can also expect an assortment of RS-specific features including sport seats and carbon fiber trim.
Powertrain details remain elusive, but the model rides on the PPE platform that underpins the aforementioned Q6 e-tron and Porsche Macan Electric. These models could provide some hints as the SQ6 e-tron has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system that produces up to 510 hp (380 kW / 517 PS). This enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph (96 km/h) in approximately 4.2 seconds and hit a top speed of 143 mph (230 km/h).
The Macan Turbo Electric develops up to 630 hp (470 kW / 639 PS) and 833 lb-ft (1,129 Nm) of torque. That allows the crossover to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 161 mph (259 km/h).
Rumors have suggested the RS6 e-tron could exceed those numbers, but we’ll likely get a better idea of what to expect when the standard model debuts this summer.
