Audi has unveiled the Q9, the largest and most senior model it has ever built and the first to wear the number 9. The full-size SUV seats seven as standard, launches with a 220 kW V6 diesel and introduces a string of firsts for the brand, from automatic doors to three-dimensionally curved digital OLED rear lights. Orders open in Germany from the end of July 2026, with prices starting at 108,400 euros.

Audi has taken the wraps off the Q9, a full-size SUV that the company positions as the new flagship of its range. It is the first Audi to use the number 9, and at 5.31 metres long it is also the largest vehicle the brand has ever produced. Audi says the model is meant to expand the top end of its portfolio and lift its premium positioning.

“The Audi Q9 is the new flagship of the Audi portfolio,” said Audi CEO Gernot Döllner. “With our first large full-size SUV, we are elevating our brand’s premium positioning.” Döllner added that, for many customers, cars are becoming “mobile living spaces,” a theme the company uses to frame the Q9’s focus on interior space and comfort.

Seven seats and a business-class second row

The Q9 seats seven as standard across three rows, and Audi says all three second-row seats carry mounting points for child seats. A six-seat layout is optional, replacing the middle bench with two individually adjustable electric seats that the company describes as delivering a business-class atmosphere. The third-row seatbacks fold down individually at the push of a button, and various seat functions can be operated from the boot.

A notable first is the availability of automatic doors, which open and close via several control points or remotely through the myAudi app. Audi says surround sensors and an obstacle-detection system stop a door if its path is blocked, while a soft-close mechanism shuts it gently.

A panoramic roof and a lighting world first

Fitted as standard, the Q9’s panoramic sunroof is the largest ever installed in an Audi, with a glass area of more than 1.5 square metres that can be opened or tilted. Optional switchable transparency divides the glass into nine controllable segments, and the top trim adds roof illumination that can display one of 30 colours to match the ambient lighting.

At the rear, Audi claims a world first with third-generation digital OLED lights whose outer panels are curved in three dimensions using ultra-thin glass. The company says the shape both opens new design freedom and improves visibility from a wider angle. An advanced turn signal projects a stylised indicator onto the road at night, and Digital Matrix LED headlights with a micro-LED module handle the front lighting.

Engine and running gear

At launch the Q9 uses a three-litre V6 diesel producing 220 kW (299 PS) and 630 Nm of torque. In selected European markets Audi will also offer a 180 kW (245 PS) version with 500 Nm. Both use MHEV plus mild-hybrid technology with an electric compressor for sharper throttle response and a next-generation generator that can add up to 18 kW (24 PS). Drive goes through an eight-speed tiptronic automatic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive as standard.

According to Audi, the Q9 TDI 220 kW returns combined fuel consumption of 8.0–7.4 l/100 km and emits 209–194 g/km of CO2 (WLTP), placing it in CO2 class G.

Size and equipment lines

The Q9 measures 5.31 m long, 2.21 m wide and 1.81 m tall, with a 3.14 m wheelbase. Wheels run up to 23 inches. Buyers choose between a standard advanced line, with vertical bars in the Singleframe grille, and an optional sportier S line. Inside, a Bang & Olufsen system with 4D sound uses 22 speakers and 1,360 watts of output, adding seat actuators up front that turn bass into a physical sensation.

Facts: Audi Q9 TDI 220 kW

  • Engine: 3.0-litre V6 diesel, MHEV plus
  • Power: 220 kW (299 PS)
  • Torque: 630 Nm
  • Transmission: 8-speed tiptronic, quattro all-wheel drive
  • Fuel consumption: 8.0–7.4 l/100 km (WLTP)
  • CO2: 209–194 g/km, CO2 class G
  • Length/width/height: 5.31 m / 2.21 m / 1.81 m
  • Wheelbase: 3.14 m
  • Seating: seven standard, six optional
  • Price from: 108,400 euros

The Q9 can be ordered in Germany from the end of July 2026, with deliveries expected to begin in the fourth quarter.

Source: www.audi.com