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July 31, 2026
Audi's largest-ever flagship SUV, the new Q9, has arrived.
Audi Q9 | The New Flagship SUV
Audi has unveiled its new flagship SUV, the Q9, in its home market of Germany.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
A Mobile Living Space Embodied
Audi has introduced the Q9, its largest SUV to date, bearing the number '9' for the first time.
With dimensions of 5,310mm in length, 2,210mm in width, and 1,810mm in height, and a wheelbase of 3,140mm, it commands an overwhelming presence and is Audi's largest model ever.
The exterior features a vertical front design, with elements like roof rails and rear overhangs emphasizing the SUV's practicality and generous proportions.
The front design differs between the standard 'Advance Line' and the optional 'S Line,' with the latter offering a sportier expression.
Audi believes that "cars are no longer just a means of transportation" but are becoming "mobile living spaces." The Q9 embodies this philosophy, with a focus on enriching the interior experience.
The standard configuration seats seven. An optional layout offers a more spacious six-seat arrangement, evoking a business-class ambiance. In the six-seat version, the second-row seats are individual electric seats, and the third-row backrests can be folded down individually with the push of a button.
Additionally, the first row features optional "Sport Seat Plus" with ventilation and massage functions.
A panoramic sunroof is standard, with over 1.5 square meters of glass creating an open and comfortable space. Optional features include a glass roof with adjustable transparency and illumination that changes color with the personalized ambient lighting.
The Q9 is also equipped with Audi's first power-operated doors with automatic opening and closing functions. Wide-ranging surround sensors prevent collisions, and an obstacle detection system can halt the doors. A soft-close function ensures they close quietly and securely. These operations can also be controlled remotely via an app.
Lighting technology is another element that enhances the Q9's powerful presence. The world's first outer digital OLED panels, integrated into a three-dimensional curved design with ultra-thin glass, allow for flowing new design expressions along the vehicle's silhouette. Furthermore, the wider viewing angle of the light improves visibility.
The vehicle also features advanced turn signals to enhance road safety. At night, these signals synchronize with the front and rear turn signals, projecting onto the road surface to increase visibility for other road users.
At launch in Germany, the powertrain will be a 3-liter V6 diesel engine producing 220 kW (299 hp) and 630 Nm of torque. Some European markets will also offer a version with 180 kW (245 hp) and 500 Nm.
Both are equipped with mild-hybrid "MHEV plus technology." An electric compressor with direct throttle response provides an additional 18 kW (24 hp) to assist the drivetrain. This is paired with an 8-speed transmission and all-wheel drive.
Orders for the Q9 have begun in Germany. We look forward to future developments.
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Learn More About the Audi Q9
Q. What kind of model is the Q9?
A. The Q9 is Audi's largest SUV to date, bearing the number '9' for the first time. It serves as an indirect successor to the A8 luxury sedan, which previously held the flagship position and is now out of production. It is a large luxury SUV competing with rivals like the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS.
A. The Q9 is Audi's largest SUV to date, bearing the number '9' for the first time. It serves as an indirect successor to the A8 luxury sedan, which previously held the flagship position and is now out of production. It is a large luxury SUV competing with rivals like the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS.
Q. What are its body dimensions?
A. With a length of 5,310mm, width of 2,210mm, height of 1,810mm, and a wheelbase of 3,140mm, it is Audi's largest model ever.
A. With a length of 5,310mm, width of 2,210mm, height of 1,810mm, and a wheelbase of 3,140mm, it is Audi's largest model ever.
Q. What are the interior comfort features?
A. It comes standard with a panoramic sunroof exceeding 1.5 square meters. Optional features include a glass roof with adjustable transparency and illumination that syncs with the ambient lighting. The first row can also be equipped with optional "Sport Seat Plus" offering ventilation and massage functions.
A. It comes standard with a panoramic sunroof exceeding 1.5 square meters. Optional features include a glass roof with adjustable transparency and illumination that syncs with the ambient lighting. The first row can also be equipped with optional "Sport Seat Plus" offering ventilation and massage functions.