Audi A6 Avant e-tron faces backlash over flawed virtual mirrors

In a recent review of the Audi A6 Avant e-tron Performance, which took place after a week of testing and covering 671 miles, journalist Will Dron expressed serious concerns about the vehicle's innovative virtual door mirrors, which are actually cameras providing a video feed within the car. Dron found these mirrors problematic, citing a dangerous blind spot that includes areas not captured by the cameras, creating challenges for safe maneuvering. Traditional mirrors allow drivers to adjust their angle for better visibility, a feature he noted with the A6 e-tron’s system was lacking where the image remained static regardless of head movement. While the A6 Avant e-tron car presents a blend of luxury and performance, Dron indicated it suffered from overcomplicated technology, such as an abundance of screens, detracting from the overall driving experience. He highlighted that the starting price for the A6 Avant e-tron is £51,795, which is considerably higher than rivals in the electric estate car market, yet it featured charging capabilities that allow for quick recharges, achieving 10-80% in just 26 minutes. Passenger comfort was also a focal point; the reviewer noted a high floor due to the battery placement, leading to discomfort for taller passengers as their knees would often sit above their waists. Despite having ample headroom for adults, the design choice drew criticism for practicality. The boot space was described as less capacious compared to competitors, but it was acknowledged for the well-thought-out practical features like a flat loading floor. Additionally, while the A6 Avant e-tron was touted for its road capabilities on smooth surfaces, Dron noted an unsettling ride quality on rough roads. During performance testing on motorways, the actual achieved range of 310 miles fell short of the advertised 402 miles, revealing discrepancies that could affect buyer expectations. Dron concluded that despite some appealing features, the notable issues, particularly with the virtual door mirrors, might dissuade potential buyers from choosing this electric estate car.