Audi Q9 three-row flagship SUV unveiled, starting at $89,095
Audi has officially debuted its new Q9 flagship SUV, filling a long-standing gap in its lineup for a three-row, full-size luxury SUV, with pricing starting at $89,095.
Ingolstadt, Germany – Audi has formally introduced the Q9, a new full-size SUV featuring a three-row seating configuration, designed to compete in a segment historically dominated by rivals. This launch addresses a notable absence in Audi's SUV portfolio.
The Q9's exterior design largely adheres to Audi's current styling language, appearing as a larger interpretation of the Q7. It features a split headlight design and a prominent grille, with the performance-oriented SQ9 variant sporting a honeycomb pattern while the standard model uses vertical slats. The rear is characterized by a full-width light bar, and importantly, the Q9 incorporates genuine exhaust outlets, moving away from previous fake trim elements. The SQ9 is distinguished by a quad-exhaust setup.
The SUV measures 5.31 meters in length, 2.21 meters in width, and 1.81 meters in height, with a substantial 3.14-meter wheelbase, promising ample interior space. The cabin offers either six or seven-seat layouts. Inside, it boasts Audi's largest panoramic sunroof, exceeding 1.5 square meters, with adjustable features. The dashboard is dominated by screens, including a 14.5-inch central display, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a matching passenger display. Material choices include wood or carbon fiber trim.
In Europe, the Q9 will initially be available with a 3.0-liter V6 turbo-diesel engine with mild-hybrid technology, offered in 177 kW and 217 kW outputs. For the US market, the standard Q9 will feature a 2.9-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine producing 316 kW, while the SQ9 will be powered by a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine delivering 435 kW and 800 Nm of torque. All models come standard with quattro all-wheel drive.
Pre-orders for the Audi Q9 begin this week in Germany, with first deliveries expected in the fourth quarter. In the US, the Q9 is slated to arrive in dealerships by the end of the year, with a starting price of $89,095 for the gasoline V6 model and $119,395 for the SQ9.