Respectfully, I'd consider another option because I've actually had some pretty disappointing results with the budget brands mentioned so far. Honestly, after researching the market and trying a few setups, I feel like putting a cheap camera in a high-end Audi is kinda risky, especially with that sleek Sportback headliner. I had issues with the Vantrue overheating in the summer, and the app was just... not as good as expected, you know?

If you really want that clean look without the battery anxiety, you gotta look at the higher-end Korean brands that have better power management. Plus, the 4K sensors in the premium stuff actually let you read plates, which is the whole point!

* **The Gold Standard:** I'd go with the BlackVue DR970X-2CH Plus 4K UHD Front and Rear Dash Cam with 64GB microSDXC. It's super slim, so it hides perfectly behind the mirror, and the wiring is way thinner than others, making it easier to tuck into the A6 trim.
* **The Alternative:** If you want slightly better image quality at night, check out the Thinkware U3000 4K UHD Front and 2K Rear Dash Cam with Built-in Radar. It has this crazy low-power radar mode that saves your EV battery while parked.

Idk but I just think spending a bit more for the integration is worth it for an e-tron. It sucks when the tech fails right when you need it... anyway, just my two cents! gl with the new ride.

yo, congrats on the e-tron! i feel u on the battery drain worry, but modern EVs handle it fine. honestly, i went the budget route and i'm sooo satisfied with the VIOFO A129 Plus Duo 2K Front and 1080P Rear Dash Cam. it’s basically half the price of high-end brands like BlackVue but the quality is highkey great. plus, i used the Fitcamx Dash Cam for Audi A6 4K for that OEM look. no messy wires, just snaps right in behind the mirror, right? works well for me!

I went through this last year with my EV and honestly, I was sooo stressed about the battery thing too. I ended up getting a 4K setup that plugs into the mirror power, and it’s been perfect right? No drain issues at all.

Honestly, since you're worried about the battery and wiring, I'd suggest checking out the Vantrue E2 2.7K Front and Rear Dash Cam. It's usually under $200 and super reliable without being a huge power hog.

Good to know!

Ngl I'm still so stressed about the long-term impact on the 12v battery system in these EVs. Everyone says it's fine until you leave the car at the airport for a week and come back to a bricked system... it happened to a buddy of mine and it was a total nightmare to deal with the dealership after. Also, please be careful with that Sportback headliner. I tried to DIY my last one and ended up with a tiny sag near the A-pillar because those clips are so fragile. Once you bend them, they never sit flush again and it'll drive you crazy every time you look at it. Honestly just venting because it feels like you cant win with these clean installs without risking something expensive.

So basically the consensus is that the e-tron handles the power draw just fine, and you dont need to spend a fortune to get a clean look. Saw this earlier but just now responding... over the years I've tried many different setups, and even though I still feel like a beginner with the wiring stuff sometimes, I've learned some lessons. My current setup is a 4K unit that runs off the mirror power and it's literally been perfect.

Comparing the options:
1. Mirror power: Cheap and clean but usually skips parking mode.
2. Hardwiring: Best for security but basically a nightmare to tuck under those tight Audi seals.
3. OBD plug: Easiest DIY, but kinda mid because of the visible wires.

I'd highkey suggest the mirror route for value. Honestly, I was sooo stressed about the battery thing too, but it's fine. Does the Sportback have that built-in USB port near the mirror? If so, you're golden! GL!