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The 2025 Audi S6 e-tron packs 543 horsepower with launch control, hits 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, and charges from 10-80% in 21 minutes[1]. Starting at $79,995, this all-electric performance sedan combines genuine sports car acceleration with usable daily range—324 EPA-estimated miles on a single charge[2].
Quick Verdict
The S6 e-tron delivers on Audi’s promise of electrified performance without compromise. Built on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) with 800-volt architecture, it charges faster than the BMW i5 M60 while offering more range. The Audi Club of North America praised the S6 for striking “a superb balance between luxury and performance”[3].
That said, early owners report some software glitches with CarPlay connectivity and charging timers that occasionally act up[4]. This is first-year model territory. Your mileage may vary depending on tolerance for teething issues.
2025 Audi S6 e-tron Pricing
| Trim | MSRP | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Premium | $79,995 | 543 hp (launch), dual motors, quattro AWD, 20″ wheels, sport adaptive air suspension[2] |
| Premium Plus | $83,495 | Adds digital LED DRLs, Bang & Olufsen audio, ambient lighting, heated steering wheel[2] |
| Prestige | $85,895 | Adds digital OLED taillights, head-up display, ventilated massage seats[2] |
All prices exclude the $1,295 destination charge. Car and Driver tested a Prestige model that stickered at $88,390 with options[5]. Some dealers are offering $6,000-$7,500 in incentives, pushing real transaction prices below MSRP[6].
The base A6 e-tron starts at $67,195—roughly $12,800 less than the S6[7]. But you’re also giving up 87 horsepower (with launch control) and the sport adaptive air suspension. For buyers who value performance, the premium buys meaningful upgrades.
For context on what MSRP actually means, remember that sticker prices and transaction prices often differ, especially when dealers have inventory sitting.
Performance and Powertrain
The S6 e-tron uses dual electric motors producing a combined 496 horsepower in normal driving. Engage launch control and that jumps to 543 hp[1]. The front motor (188 hp induction AC) and rear motor (375 hp permanent magnet synchronous) work together through a rear-biased quattro all-wheel-drive system.
| Specification | S6 e-tron |
|---|---|
| Total System Power | 496 hp (543 hp w/launch control)[1] |
| Peak Torque | 855 Nm (631 lb-ft) combined[8] |
| 0-60 mph | 3.7 seconds[2] |
| Top Speed | 149 mph[2] |
| Curb Weight | 5,225 lbs[2] |
Kelley Blue Book confirms the 3.7-second 0-60 time across all trims[2]. That’s quick enough to embarrass many sports cars. The Drive noted that the S6 offers “496 horsepower (543 with launch control)” that “hits 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds”[9].
What sets the S6 apart from the A6 quattro (456 hp with launch control, 4.3 seconds to 60) is more than just acceleration[3]. The S6 includes sport adaptive air suspension as standard equipment, firmer damping, and specific tuning for more aggressive driving.
Driving Dynamics
MotorTrend’s first-drive impressions described the S6 e-tron’s handling as “precise and easy to modulate”[10]. The rear-biased torque distribution gives the S6 a more playful character than typical all-wheel-drive EVs, which tend toward understeer.
The standard sport adaptive air suspension offers multiple height settings and damping modes. In Comfort mode, the ride absorbs road imperfections smoothly. Switch to Dynamic and body roll tightens noticeably during hard cornering.
Regenerative braking is adjustable through several modes, from coast-free driving to strong one-pedal-style deceleration. One owner noted they prefer coast mode over aggressive regen—”my passengers agree, they don’t feel car sick in it”[4]. (Full disclosure: some drivers love aggressive regen while others find it jarring. Test both approaches.)
The catch? Early reports suggest the S6 struggles somewhat in snow with all-season tires[11]. One owner described the rear wheels losing traction on icy roads. If you live in cold climates, budget for proper winter tires.
Battery and Charging
| Specification | S6 e-tron |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 100 kWh gross (94.4 kWh usable)[12] |
| Architecture | 800-volt |
| Peak DC Fast Charging | 270 kW[8] |
| 10-80% Charge Time | 21 minutes[12] |
| Level 2 AC Charging | 9.6 kW (US) |
The 800-volt architecture is the S6 e-tron’s killer feature. At 270 kW peak charging, it significantly outpaces the BMW i5 M60 (205 kW) and most other competitors[8]. Audi Natick confirms that “with Level 3/DC fast charging at peak capacity, the battery can be re-energized from 10% to 80% in about 21 minutes”[12].
When using older 400-volt chargers, the battery splits into two banks charging simultaneously at up to 135 kW each. This backward compatibility ensures you won’t be stranded at stations without 800V infrastructure.
Carwow’s real-world testing showed the S6 Avant e-tron achieving about 2.1 miles per kWh in normal driving—less than Audi’s claimed 3.9 miles per kWh[13]. That’s typical for performance EVs driven enthusiastically, but expect range to vary based on your right foot.
For home charging needs, check out the best EV chargers. Audi owners also have access to Electrify America’s network and can charge at Tesla Superchargers with an adapter.
Range Estimates
| Model | EPA Range |
|---|---|
| S6 Sportback e-tron (all trims) | 324 miles[12] |
| A6 e-tron Performance (RWD) | 392 miles[14] |
| A6 e-tron quattro | 377 miles[9] |
The S6 e-tron’s 324-mile EPA range trails the base A6 e-tron by 68 miles[12]. That’s the price of the extra motor and performance tuning. But 324 miles still qualifies as genuinely usable for road trips.
Real-world winter range typically drops to 250-270 miles depending on temperature and heating use. The fast charging capability partially offsets this—you’ll stop more frequently but spend less time plugged in than competitors with slower DC charging.
Interior and Technology
The 2025 S6 e-tron shares its cabin with the A6 e-tron, adding S-specific sport seats with diamond stitching and S badging throughout[15]. Cargo space measures 25.95 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 39.29 cubic feet with seats folded[12].
Standard features across all S6 e-tron trims include:
- MMI touch response infotainment with haptic feedback
- Audi virtual cockpit plus (configurable digital gauges)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Four-zone automatic climate control
- Panoramic glass roof
- Sport seat plus with leather/microfiber upholstery
The Prestige trim adds digital OLED taillights with eight selectable light signatures, head-up display, ventilated massage seats, and top-view camera[2].
Audi doesn’t charge extra for Apple CarPlay—wireless integration comes standard, though some owners report occasional Bluetooth connectivity issues that require system resets[11].
S6 e-tron vs. BMW i5 M60
| Specification | 2025 Audi S6 e-tron | BMW i5 M60 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $79,995[2] | ~$84,100 |
| Horsepower | 543 hp (launch)[1] | 593 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 3.7 sec[2] | 3.7 sec |
| EPA Range | 324 mi[12] | ~256 mi |
| Battery Capacity | 94.4 kWh usable[12] | 81.2 kWh usable[8] |
| Peak DC Charging | 270 kW[8] | 205 kW[8] |
| Curb Weight | 5,225 lbs[2] | ~5,423 lbs |
Auto Express confirmed that “the S6 takes an early lead here, because it has a battery capacity of 94.9kWh (usable) to the BMW’s 81.2kWh, yet despite the heavier battery pack, it’s marginally lighter than the i5”[8]. The Audi charges faster too—270 kW versus 205 kW.
The BMW offers 50 more horsepower, but both cars hit 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. The S6’s range advantage (68 more miles) and faster charging make it the better road-trip companion. BMW maintenance costs also tend to run higher over time.
For buyers who prefer an SUV format, the SQ6 e-tron offers similar PPE platform performance in a crossover body.
Early Owner Feedback
The S6 e-tron launched in late 2024, so long-term reliability data doesn’t exist yet. But early owner reports from Reddit reveal both praise and frustration.
What owners love:
- Driving experience and comfort on long trips
- Coast mode for smooth, passenger-friendly driving[4]
- Build quality and interior materials
- Fast charging speeds at capable stations
What owners dislike:
- Software glitches requiring system resets for CarPlay/Bluetooth[11]
- Charging timer activating unexpectedly[4]
- Winter performance with factory all-season tires[11]
- Car powers down climate control when shifted to park[11]
One owner transitioning from Tesla noted the Audi’s software “won’t match Tesla’s high standards” for over-the-air updates and responsiveness[4]. Another described the S6 as “truly a car rather than just a software platform”[4]. Your priorities will determine which trade-off matters more.
Who Should Buy the 2025 S6 e-tron?
Choose the S6 e-tron if you:
- Want the fastest charging speeds in the German luxury EV sedan segment
- Value range over raw horsepower numbers
- Need an EV capable of genuine long-distance travel
- Appreciate sport adaptive air suspension as standard equipment
Consider alternatives if you:
- Want maximum power (BMW i5 M60 offers 50 more hp)
- Prioritize longest possible range (A6 e-tron Performance hits 392 miles)
- Prefer proven reliability over first-year models
- Need an SUV body style (SQ6 e-tron)
For buyers exploring the best Audi electric cars, the S6 e-tron represents Audi’s most advanced performance EV technology—800-volt charging, PPE platform, and genuine sports sedan acceleration in a practical package.
FAQs
How fast is the 2025 Audi S6 e-tron?
The 2025 Audi S6 e-tron accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds when using launch control, which temporarily boosts power from 496 hp to 543 hp[2]. Top speed is electronically limited to 149 mph. All three trims—Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige—deliver identical acceleration.
What is the range of the 2025 Audi S6 e-tron?
The 2025 Audi S6 e-tron has an EPA-estimated range of 324 miles on a full charge across all trims[12]. Real-world range varies based on temperature, driving style, and speed. Expect 250-280 miles in cold weather or at sustained highway speeds above 75 mph.
How long does it take to charge the 2025 Audi S6 e-tron?
The S6 e-tron charges from 10-80% in approximately 21 minutes using a 270 kW DC fast charger[12]. The 800-volt architecture enables faster charging than most competitors. Level 2 home charging at 9.6 kW takes approximately 10-11 hours for a full charge.
What’s the difference between the 2025 Audi A6 e-tron and S6 e-tron?
Is the 2025 Audi S6 e-tron available as a wagon?
Yes, Audi offers the S6 e-tron in both Sportback (liftback sedan) and Avant (wagon) body styles. The S6 Avant e-tron offers 388-402 miles of WLTP range in Europe, though EPA figures for the U.S. Avant model may differ[13]. U.S. availability for the Avant may be limited compared to the Sportback.
References
- Audi Club of North America. (2025). First Drive: The 2025 Audi A6 and S6 e-tron. https://audiclubna.org/first-drive-the-2025-audi-a6-and-s6-e-tron/
- Kelley Blue Book. (2025). 2025 Audi S6 Sportback e-tron Specs, Features & Options. https://www.kbb.com/audi/s6-sportback-e-tron/2025/specs/
- Audi Club of North America. (2025). First Drive: The 2025 Audi A6 and S6 e-tron. https://audiclubna.org/first-drive-the-2025-audi-a6-and-s6-e-tron/
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Reddit r/etron. (2025). 2025 A6 e-tron (US) – pretty disappointed.
2025 A6 e-tron (US) – pretty disappointed
byu/Ok-Bandicoot-6009 inetron - Car and Driver. (2025). 2025 Audi S6 e-tron Review, Pricing, and Specs. https://www.caranddriver.com/audi/s6-e-tron-2025
- Audi San Francisco. (2025). 2025 Audi S6 Sportback e-tron Prestige Inventory. https://www.audisanfrancisco.com/en/inventory/vehicle/
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Reddit r/electricvehicles. (2025). 2025 Audi A6 e-tron Is an Electric Sedan With 392 Miles of Range.
2025 Audi A6 e-tron Is an Electric Sedan With 392 Miles of Range That Starts at $67,195 (US launch)
byu/Intrepid-Working-731 inelectricvehicles - Auto Express. (2025). Audi S6 Avant e-tron vs BMW i5 M60 Touring. https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/car-group-tests/366779/audi-s6-avant-e-tron-vs-bmw-i5-m60-touring-fast-ev-estates-face
- The Drive. (2024). 2025 Audi A6 & S6 E-Tron First Drive Review. https://www.thedrive.com/car-reviews/2025-audi-a6-s6-e-tron-first-drive-review
- MotorTrend. (2025). 2025 Audi A6/S6 E-Tron First Drive Review. https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2025-audi-a6-s6-e-tron-first-drive-review
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Reddit r/etron. (2025). New Audi/E-Tron Owner – Beginning to Despise my S6 E-Tron.
New Audi/E-Tron Owner – Beginning to Despise my S6 E-tron Sportsback – Help Me at Least Like It Again?
byu/Time-Pomegranate-286 inetron - Audi Natick. (2025). 2025 Audi S6 Sportback e-tron. https://www.audinatick.com/en/model-research/2025/2025-audi-s6-sportback-e-tron/
- Carwow UK. (2025). Audi S6 Avant e-tron Review 2026 | Performance & Pricing. https://www.carwow.co.uk/audi/s6-avant-e-tron
- Audi USA. (2025). 2025 Audi A6 Sportback e-tron | Premium electric sedan. https://www.audiusa.com/en/models/a6/a6-sportback-e-tron/2025/overview/
- Audi USA. (2025). Build your own 2025 Audi S6 Sportback e-tron. https://www.audiusa.com/en/models/a6/s6-sportback-e-tron/2025/overview/build/
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
