Audi finally has a new flagship SUV in the 2027 Q9. Measuring in at 209 inches long, 86.8 inches wide, and 71,4 inches tall, this thing is huge. It makes good use of its 123.5-inch wheelbase, resulting in an imposing and assertive three-row that slots above the new Q7. Given its size, the Q9 trumps its German rivals and goes all in on American-style sizing. Literally. As a result, it’s dimensionally closer to vehicles like the Lincoln Navigator, Cadillac Escalade, and the Range Rover. Yep, it’s that big.
On the outside, the 2027 Audi Q9 follows the same design language as the latest Q3 and Q7. It features a similar split headlight and taillight treatment, and an imposing Singleframe grille. The latter comes in two different takes, one with vertical bars in the advanced line and a sportier take on the S Line option. Wheel sizes range up to 23 inches in diameter. The Q9 also features digital OLED taillights and, for the first time on a U.S.-bound Audi model, adaptive beam digital matrix functionality for the LED headlights. Additionally, the Q9 can project turn signal indicators on the ground and create symbols thanks to its OLED taillights.
For those wanting a sportier look, the SQ9 features unique details like aluminum optic accents and a hexagonal grille pattern. In the back, the signature quad exhaust on S models hints at the SQ9’s performance, especially alongside its model-specific roof spoiler.
2027 Audi Q9: A Luxurious Ride
The big highlight on the Q9 is the interior, which can seat six or seven depending on the configuration. That’s where the SUV’s size truly pays off. In addition to expected features like heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, the Q9 can be equipped with power-operated seats in all three rows. Power second-row captain’s chairs and heated armrests are also available. Looking to brighten up the cabin? A standard panoramic sunroof, the largest ever in an Audi vehicle, does just that.
For added poshness, the Q9 offers available Nappa leather upholstery in several hues, including new colors like Tamarind Brown and Stone Beige. A variety of wood trim is also available. Additionally, Audi eschewed Q9 high-gloss plastic trim for the Q9’s interior. For maximum exclusivity, the Almond Beige Audi Exclusive Design package is also available. Furthermore, Qi2 dual wireless chargers come standard.
Although the luxury features impress, you’re getting the Q9 for the space, and it offers just that. American-sized cupholders and a rail system in the cargo area add versatility. With all seats up, the seven-seat version has 19.3 cubic feet of cargo space. That expands to 50 cubic feet with the third row folded and 87.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows down. For additional convenience, the Q9 offers automatic doors that open up to 90 degrees, another Audi first. Meanwhile, the seven-seat configuration features a 35/30/35 split setup for the third row. The second row also features the same capability, adding to the Q9’s versatility.
Cutting-Edge Infotainment and Driver Assistance
On the infotainment front, the Q9 comes with the MMI panoramic display, a curved setup that combines the 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and 14.5-inch touchscreen. You can also add an optional 12.3-inch passenger display that keeps the driver from seeing distracting content like videos. Running on Android Automotive OS, apps are available via the Audi Application Store directly integrated into the infotainment system. It also features Audi Assistant with an Audi Connect NAV subscription, which can control numerous in-vehicle functions. Additionally, the system uses ChatGPT integration to handle general knowledge and information requests beyond what the native voice assistance can do. In addition, the optional Bang & Olufsen premium audio system with 4D sound helps maximize the listening experience with its 22 speakers and 1,360 watts of power.
As far as driver assistance features go, the Q9 comes standard with the usual suspects like automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. Additionally, it also includes automatic parking, trailer maneuvering assist, and trailer stability control. The Premium Plus and Prestige trims will also offer semi-autonomous hands-free driving capability up to 85 mph. This also includes lane change assist.
2027 Audi Q9: Prodigious Power
At launch, the 2027 Q9 will offer two engine options. The standard model features a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 with 429 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to hit 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. An eight-speed automatic is the only transmission option, while Quattro AWD and adaptive air suspension come standard.
Looking for more? That’s what the SQ9 is for. It features a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with 591 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to reach 60 mph in 3.8 seconds. Additionally, the SQ9’s Quattro AWD system has a few tricks up its sleeve, like actively distributing torque between the front and rear axles, brake-based torque vectoring, and rear-wheel steering. It also includes an electronically controlled locking rear differential to help manage power distribution left and right. Staggered tires with available summer performance rubber allow the driver to get the most out of the rear-biased AWD setup.
Prices start at $89,095 for the 2027 Q9, while the sportier SQ9 starts at $119,395. Both go on sale in the U.S. in the fourth quarter of 2026.
