Audi Q9: the new flagship of the four rings’ SUV range
With the new Audi Q9, the brand with the four rings is taking another major step forward in the premium large SUV segment. Measuring 5.31 metres in length and capable of accommodating up to seven passengers, this all-new model becomes the largest Audi ever produced and takes its place at the top of the range. Designed as a true mobile living space, it combines generous interior space, cutting-edge technologies, exceptional comfort and quattro all-wheel drive. The first deliveries in France are expected from December 2026.
An electrified V6 TDI combining power and refinement
At launch, the Audi Q9 will be available in France with a 3.0 TDI V6 producing 299 hp and 630 Nm of torque, combined with MHEV plus technology. This mild-hybrid system notably includes a powertrain generator capable of temporarily providing up to 24 additional hp and 370 Nm of torque, improving acceleration while also enhancing efficiency.
The V6 also benefits from an electric compressor designed to provide particularly rapid throttle response from low engine speeds. Power is transmitted as standard through an eight-speed tiptronic transmission and permanent quattro all-wheel drive.
The Audi Q9 also comes as standard with adaptive air suspension, capable of continuously adjusting the damping and ride height. Combined with progressive steering and all-wheel steering, it allows this large SUV to maintain precise and controlled handling. The rear wheels can turn by up to five degrees to improve manoeuvrability at low speeds and stability at higher speeds.
An interior designed as a true living space
It is inside that the Audi Q9 most clearly asserts its status as the new flagship of the range. Thanks to its 3.14-metre wheelbase, it offers three rows of seats and up to seven seats as standard. A six-seat configuration is also available for enhanced comfort, with two electrically adjustable individual seats in the second row and an atmosphere reminiscent of business class.
Audi is also introducing several new features, including power-operated doors capable of detecting obstacles before opening, as well as the largest panoramic roof ever fitted to one of the brand’s models. Its glazed surface exceeds 1.5 m² and can optionally feature electronically controlled variable transparency.
Acoustic and sensory comfort also play a central role. The Bang & Olufsen 4D sound system can deliver up to 1,360 watts through 22 speakers, some of which are integrated directly into the headrests. Actuators installed in the front seats can also physically reproduce certain low frequencies to enhance immersion.
The cockpit is centred around the Audi MMI panoramic display, which combines an 11.9-inch Virtual Cockpit, a 14.5-inch central touchscreen and a 12.3-inch passenger display. The system runs on Android Automotive OS and also integrates the Audi assistant enhanced by ChatGPT for certain general queries.
An imposing design and new lighting signatures
With its upright front end, large Singleframe grille and particularly generous proportions, the Audi Q9 adopts a deliberately imposing and prestigious silhouette. Two main lines are available, Avus and S line, each with its own distinctive visual identity. Wheels are available in sizes of up to 23 inches.
At the rear, Audi introduces a world first with third-generation curved digital OLED rear lights. Their architecture allows the lighting panels to follow the shape of the bodywork more closely while improving lateral visibility. The vehicle can also be equipped with turn indicators projected onto the ground and various communicative lighting signatures designed to enhance safety.
Finally, the Audi Q9 benefits from a particularly comprehensive range of driver assistance systems: automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, 360-degree vision, automated parking, trailer manoeuvring assistance and a new emergency assistant capable, under certain conditions, of guiding the vehicle to the emergency lane before bringing it to a stop.
With the Q9, Audi is therefore doing more than simply adding another SUV to its range. The brand is creating a new flagship model designed to combine space, comfort, advanced technologies and high-level driving capabilities. A new benchmark that extends the Audi SUV family at the very top of the range.
