Camouflaged test vehicles from German automakers are commonplace at the Nurburgring, but we didn’t see much of Audi’s RS Q6 E-Tron. The high-performance EV was recently seen not on the track, but rather, just outside. It’s not as cool as catching prototypes on turns, but our photographers can get up close for clearer, more detailed images beyond the track walls.
That’s exactly what we have here. This test vehicle still wears the same form-fitting camouflage wrap seen in previous spy photos, coincidentally taken on the ring rather than outside. At a glance, you’d think it’s a standard Q6 E-Tron as it rolls on a set of shiny silver wheels. Previous sightings have seen prototypes with black wheels, but big brakes with red calipers are a dead giveaway that it’s something more. The tire footprint also indicates more horsepower, and the RS model will have a more aggressive front fascia with prominent corner vents. These vents are clearly visible in the photos below.
11 Pictures
The split-light design associated with electric E-Tron models is also easy to spot, despite the camouflage. Less obvious is the grille, or rather the outline of the grille. The familiar Audi shape is there if you look closely, although it’s solid since there’s no combustion engine to power. Out back, expect the RS Q6 E-Tron to look a lot like a standard Audi Q-series crossover, but without any exhaust pipes.
The Q6 BEV will be based on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) modular architecture. It’s the same setup you’ll find under the electric Porsche Macan and as such should pack a good performance punch. We know the Macan EV will deliver over 600 horsepower (447 kilowatts) and there’s no reason to believe the RS Q6 E-Tron won’t match that output. Tighter suspension, sticky tires and a big battery should also be on the cards. It is an RS model, after all.
When will this happen? Our first RS Q6 E-Tron sighting was in March 2022, so we should be in the final stages of testing at this point. We’re expecting something from Audi in the first half of 2023. In the meantime, check out the Rambling About Cars podcast for more EV performance news and other automotive content, available below.
