What's the difference?
From a few paces back, the Q6 e-tron is easy to mistake for just another Audi.
After all, Audi, perhaps above all its contemporaries, has established such a consistent look and feel for its entire range.
But this is no regular Audi. The brand tells us the Q6 e-tron is the most significant new vehicle it has launched in a decade.
Underneath its familiar visage, Audi is so excited about the Q6 e-tron because it brings with it a ground-up new-vehicle platform, which brings with it some forward leaps when it comes to technology.
But does being new actually make the Q6 e-tron a good car? We went to its Australian media launch to find out.
Hyundai is reaching for new heights with the Ioniq 9. And I don't just mean that literally – though it's certainly true that this three-row electric SUV is an absolute giant of a vehicle. I mean because it's also the most expensive car, electric or otherwise, to ever wear the Hyundai badge.
With it, Hyundai steps into premium air – the Volvo EX90 starts at around the same money, as does the Audi Q6 e-tron, albeit with fewer seats.
And because Hyundai has only brought in one flagship variant, the Ioniq 9 is also miles above the cheapest Kia EV9. But will its customers rise with it?
Let's find out.
The Q6 e-tron knocks the luxury SUV formula out of the park, regardless of the fact it’s an electric vehicle. It has a slick, sporty feel, a high level of standard equipment for a premium car and at least on paper it’s a solid EV with plenty of driving range.
But here’s the thing: To me, the Q6 e-tron feels exactly how you would expect it to. It’s the same Audi formula, just upgraded for the electric age and in an era where rivals both old and new are using this once-in-a generation opportunity to truly innovate, there’s something a little disappointing about that.
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is a big, comfortable and powerful SUV that ticks lots of boxes. Sadly, though, the electric power that makes it such a treat to drive is probably the same thing that will keep it off plenty of shopping lists. For now, at least.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with accommodation and meals provided.