Audi is working on a Dakar-style Q6 Sportback

And’Audi electric in style Dakar? It could become reality. To celebrate the victory in the 2024 edition of the toughest race in the world, the German manufacturer is reportedly working on one Q6 Sportback e-tron very particular.

According to those who have seen it, this special example has an exaggerated look, but it is not clear whether it will become a production example or will turn into a concept. Here’s what it might look like in its final version.

Born to compete

In the construction of our render we started from the videos and spy photos of the past few weeks that have been doing the rounds on the web. Of the standard Q6 Sportback e-tron (which will arrive in 2025) there are only a few details, such as the headlights, the grille and the sloping shapes of the rear area.

For the rest, Audi has completely transformed the layout of the SUV, with very voluminous, large wheel arches tyres (of the Toyo Open Country, in the case of forklifts) from off-road vehicles and roof bars.

Exploiting the potential of electric motorsit is likely that this special Q6 Sportback e-tron will have particular features to improve off-road grip, such as a specific torque management system or ad hoc suspensions to deal with major jumps and unevenness on rough and rocky terrain.

In short, Audi’s could be a remote and indirect response to the Mercedes-AMG G 63 AMG 4×4².

Mercedes-AMG G 63 4×4² (2022)

Is it time for the RS Q6?

Regarding the architecture, it is very likely that this Q6 Sportback “Dakar” also uses the PPE platform. On the standard Audi it can be combined with battery from 79 kWh or 95 kWh, with all-wheel or rear-wheel drive versions, depending on the engines.

The power ranges between 326 and 516 HP, the latter reserved for the SQ6 Sportback e-tron, which will be – at least initially – the best performing model. But we wouldn’t be surprised if with the launch of this “Safari”, Audi presented the RS Q6which could have over 600 HP and even more sensational performance.