• Q6 gets a new-look interior for Audi
• Impressive quality and technology
• But doesn’t feel like a big step up compared to previous Audis

How is the quality and layout? 

The Q6 ushers in a new-generation interior that’s different from everything else Audi sells – big news given the firm’s usual conservative approach to things. It’s a trendy layout with a curved piece of glass housing both the large touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It looks fantastic, and represents a step up visually. 

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The Q6 e-tron’s cabin is generally up to Audi’s usual high-end standard, too. Our top-spec test car had a great combination of upmarket leather seats with diamond stitching and Alcantara trim for the dashboard and door cards. There are a few things that let the side down, however. The steering wheel buttons are difficult to use because they’re so small and you often end up pressing another by accident. There is also too much gloss black plastic around the cabin that is prone to scratching and cheapens the interior somewhat. 

Infotainment and tech

The most striking aspect of the cockpit is the curved digital displays in front of the driver: the instrument panel is an 11.9-inch screen and it’s integrated with an even bigger 14.5-inch touchscreen in the middle of the dashboard for all major controls.

Audi has managed to dodge some of the touchscreen woes that have blighted parent company Volkswagen and it aims to stay ahead with this very latest infotainment system dubbed E3 1.2. Sounds like jargon, but it actually means new software and hardware to make the touchscreens operate seamlessly and logically. It also runs an Android operating system for the first time. We think it’s not as easy to use as Audi’s previous system, however, and it’s a backward step that the climate menu is now integrated within the main touchscreen. The Q6’s graphics are also not quite as crisp as we’d expect from a new-generation car. Those on a Porsche Macan Electric are better. 

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That said, some of the other technology on the Q6 is highly impressive. The augmented-reality head-up display takes a step up compared to other cars with similar systems, as it’s even able to project messaging from the driver assistance, such as warning you on the display if you’re too close to other vehicles. It can also give you ‘live’ direction arrows to tell you where to turn off or what lane you need to be in on a roundabout. 

Comfort

• Excellent sports seats on all models
• Heated front seats as standard
• But only high-spec cars get electrical adjustment

One of the Q6’s best attributes is its superb sports seats, which are included across all versions. With extending seat bases and plenty of support, most drivers will be able to get comfortable behind the wheel – especially with plenty of adjustment for the steering wheel. 

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Heated front and rear seats are included as standard, too. It’s the top-spec Edition 1 model that gets the best seats in the house, though, with additional electric adjustment, memory and massage functions included.