• Audi testing Q6 Sportback E-Tron prototype with major off-road modifications
• Prototype may be for a hardcore off-roader celebrating 2024 Dakar Rally win
• High-performance RS Q6 E-Tron also out testing

Audi has been spotted testing a camouflaged prototype for a wild off-roader based on the yet-to-be-revealed Q6 Sportback E-Tron.

The Q6 E-Tron debuted in March and is due in showrooms by next summer. The more coupe-like Q6 Sportback E-Tron should be launched by then, as prototypes wearing barely any camouflage gear have been out and about since last year.

The prototype in our latest spy shots isn’t likely to be a regular production model though, as indicated by its huge ground clearance, comically wide fender flares, roof storage system, extra driving lights, and rugged tires, in this case Toyo Open Country Mud-Terrain tires.

At this point it isn’t clear whether the prototype is even for a production-bound model, or possibly a concept, or merely a test mule for some other vehicle, like an oft-rumored rugged SUV to target the Land Rover Defender and Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Mercedes several years back built a rugged EQC with similar modifications to those seen here when it was developing the four-wheel-drive system for the electric G-Class.

There is a good chance we’re looking at a production model. Automakers don’t normally test concepts on public roads and the unique, almost production-ready design of the front and rear fascias suggest this is more than just a test mule. A possibility is a hardcore off-roader to celebrate Audi’s 2024 Dakar win with the bespoke RS Q E-Tron.

Audi launched a special Q8 E-Tron Edition Dakar earlier this year to celebrate its participation in the Dakar Rally. Just 99 of those were built, and the model featured the same roof storage system seen here.

The regular Q6 Sportback E-Tron should feature a design and powertrain specifications matching the Q6 E-Tron. This means it should use Volkswagen Group’s 800-volt PPE platform, a 100-kwh battery (at least in the U.S.), and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain. The powertrain should be rated at 422 hp (456 hp with boost mode) in the base model and 483 hp (510 hp with boost) in the spicier SQ6 E-Tron. A high-performance RS Q6 E-Tron packing even more power has also been spotted testing.