2026 Audi Q9 SUV Debuts as Brand's Largest Model

Audi has unveiled the 2026 Audi Q9, marking its entry into the large full-size SUV segment. This new model, developed with a specific focus on the U.S. market, becomes the largest vehicle in Audi's lineup. Deliveries for the 2026 Audi Q9 are scheduled to commence in November 2026.

Design and Interior Features

The 2026 Audi Q9 measures 5.31 meters (17.4 feet) long, 2.21 meters (7.3 feet) wide mirror-to-mirror, and 1.81 meters (5.9 feet) tall, with a wheelbase of 3.14 meters (10.3 feet). Its exterior design features an upright front and imposing rear, reflecting its position as Audi's largest vehicle.

Inside, the Q9 offers a spacious cabin, standard with seven seats. An optional six-seat configuration provides two individual electric seats in the second row, aiming for enhanced comfort. The third-row seatbacks can be folded down individually with a button. Additional comfort features include five-zone automatic air conditioning and automatic doors that can be operated from multiple points or remotely via the myAudi app.

A significant interior highlight is Audi's largest panoramic sunroof, covering over 1.5 square meters (16.1 square feet) of glass, which comes standard. This sunroof can be opened wide or tilted, with optional switchable transparency and integrated illumination that adapts to personalized ambient lighting.

Advanced Technology and Powertrains

The 2026 Audi Q9 incorporates advanced driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise assist plus with hands-free driving. This feature allows drivers to remove their hands from the steering wheel at speeds up to 85 mph (130 km/h) on approved highway segments in the U.S., Canada, and Germany.

Lighting technology in the Q9 includes curved digital OLED panels at the rear, a first for Audi, seamlessly integrated into the body contours. Digital Matrix LED headlights with micro-LED modules provide precise illumination. Advanced turn signals project a stylized indicator onto the ground when turning or changing lanes at night, enhancing visibility for other road users.

For the U.S. market, the 2026 Audi Q9 will be equipped with a three-liter V6 turbocharged gasoline engine. All V6 models feature quattro permanent all-wheel drive with a center differential. A performance-oriented Audi SQ9, available in select markets including the U.S. and Canada, will feature a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine producing 591 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.0 seconds. The SQ9 utilizes a rear-biased quattro all-wheel drive system with a controlled rear differential lock and mixed-size tires (285 front, 315 rear). Both the Q9 and SQ9 come standard with adaptive air suspension and rear-axle steering, and can tow up to 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs).

Market Positioning and Availability

Audi developed the 2026 Audi Q9 specifically to address the needs of customers in the U.S., recognizing it as a crucial market. The Q9 family will be manufactured at the Volkswagen Group plant in Bratislava, Slovakia, which has experience producing large SUVs like the Audi Q7 and Q8.

Orders for the 2026 Audi Q9 are expected to begin by the end of July 2026, with initial deliveries planned for November 2026. In Germany, the entry-level Q9 TDI with a 220 kW engine will start at 108,400 euros.

The introduction of the 2026 Audi Q9 signifies Audi's strategic expansion into the full-size SUV segment, particularly for the North American market. This new flagship model aims to combine expansive interior space and advanced technology, building on Audi's history in the U.S.