The Audi A6 Avant e-tron has a drag coefficient of 0.24.Audi
With the A6 e-tron – based on the delayed PPE architecture – Audi aims to make its mark in the upper mid-range segment. Our focus is primarily on the digital user experience and driver assistance systems. How well are these elements harmoniously implemented in everyday driving?
For about a year now, Audi's PPE models Q6 e-tron and A6 e-tron have been on the market. We tested the latter ourselves for two weeks. Let me reveal this in advance: The current sales weakness of the Ingolstadt-based company is unlikely to be due to the quality of the new cars. Similar to the Porsche Macan, which is based on the same platform, it has also been shown with the A6 e-tron that the long development time was worthwhile. As a complete package, the A6 e-tron is convincing. In terms of infotainment, UX, and ADAS functions, we took a closer look as always. There are still some small adjustments to be made here.
In general, three high-resolution touch displays dominate the interior. At the centre is a 14.5-inch touchscreen, flanked by a digital 11.9-inch instrument cluster - optionally supplemented by a 10.9-inch passenger display that takes over navigation aids and media content. The OLED technology ensures razor-sharp images with deep blacks and high anti-reflection. The curved display is well oriented towards the driver, yet the steering wheel partially obscures the quick access for navigation and media on the left outside. The swipe menu from the left edge is also difficult to reach.
View of the cockpit.Audi
The menu structure is logically arranged, but the icons for quick access could be better distinguished and larger. The touch control of the climate control also brings comfort but lacks tactile feedback. The input areas are relatively small, and more complex settings like air distribution are one menu level deeper. Audi is increasingly dispensing with classic switches: even the light, mirror, and central locking functions are integrated into touch-sensitive areas in the door area, which proved to be imprecise and fiddly in the test. The capacitive buttons on the steering wheel follow the same principle - not very tactile, difficult to operate accurately.
The digital instrument cluster disappoints with displays that are too small and a coarse scale. A real map view or a classic speedometer is missing - a step back compared to earlier Audi displays. At least the cruise control is still conventionally controllable via a separate steering column lever, and the volume can be adjusted via a rotary control.
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Infotainment & Connectivity: Full Equipment Meets Update Capability
The operating system is Android Automotive OS with deeply integrated Google services like Maps, Assistant, and App Store. Over-the-air updates ensure that new features - such as an AI-supported chatbot - can be easily added in the future. Standard features include online navigation with live data and charging planning, wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, DAB+, Wi-Fi hotspot, and four USB-C ports. Wireless charging via smartphone tray also works reliably.
Optionally, Audi offers a B&O 3D sound system with speakers in the headrests and active noise cancellation. Vehicle data can be retrieved via the Audi app, doors can be locked remotely, and up to five digital keys can be sent. Additionally, the A6 e-tron is fully OTA-capable and allows functions-on-demand.
The AR head-up display projects driving instructions directly into the field of vision, which is a real benefit, especially for navigation and speed limits. However, the displayed information, when fully functional, could easily lead to distraction due to noticeable warning bars or highlights of vehicles ahead. Better fine-tuning is needed here to balance between information and overload.
Assistance Systems: Solid foundation, but room for improvement
The backbone of the driving assistance is Audi's new E³ 1.2 electronic architecture. It organizes central vehicle functions - including drive, infotainment, comfort, and assistance - via five specialized domain computers. Essential systems such as an emergency brake assistant, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control are already on board as standard. However, additional functions such as lane change warning, exit warning, and rear cross-traffic detection require optional radar sensors in the rear area.
In everyday use, the adaptive driving assistant leaves a mixed impression: While it operates harmoniously on well-developed motorways and scores with precise speed and lane guidance, it shows weaknesses on poorly marked roads. The steering assistance then intervenes with noticeable resistance, which is more of a burden than a relief for the driver. The anticipatory deceleration, for example, in the case of crossing vehicles or tighter situations, is also not yet finely tuned. The system often reacts over-cautiously and shows a certain sluggishness when starting again.
Audi scores points with its operating logic: The lane function can be intuitively deactivated via a tactile switch at the end of the indicator lever, without the driver having to take their eyes off the road. In addition, a customizable assistant mode allows the entire range of functions to be controlled with just one command. The legally required speed assistant (ISA) can also be easily switched off using a quick selection button on the steering wheel, but is automatically reactivated when the vehicle is restarted, as required by EU regulations.
Also positive is the sensitive steering wheel detection, which reliably recognizes one-handed driving. Speed limits are generally adopted correctly. However, an automatic lane change assistant is missing - surprising for a vehicle that advertises technological advancement.
Space Comfort & Processing: Premium, as expected
The A6 Avant e-tron remains an estate with full everyday competence: 502 litres of boot volume (max. 1422 litres with the rear seat folded down), plus 27 litres frunk with charming gesture opening at the Audi rings. The interior impresses with high-quality materials, clear design language, and excellent workmanship. The S line sports seats offer lateral support and long-distance comfort alike.
The Audi A6 Avant e-tron brings much of what one expects from a premium electric estate: long range, excellent connectivity, high-quality materials, and future-proof software architecture. The integration of digital features is well thought out, although it suffers in some areas from the prioritisation of touch over buttons. In particular, the operating logic for assistance systems and steering wheel buttons still offers potential for optimisation.
