Audi wants to play hard among large luxury SUVs and for that it has just presented a couple that does not exactly go unnoticed.
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The new Q9 and SQ9 2027 arrive with three rows of seats, six- and eight-cylinder engines and a good dose of technology designed especially for the US market.
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The first units will be available in the United States during the fourth quarter of 2026. The strategy is clear, as Audi seeks to win over those who need space for the family, but are not willing to give up the performance or finishes of a premium model.
From engines to personalities
The Q9 uses a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 that delivers 429 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. With this configuration it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds, while an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive are part of the equipment.
The SQ9 plays in another league. Under the hood appears a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with 591 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. It also uses an eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox and the quattro system.
Audi complements this package with an electronic locking rear differential and an electromechanical clutch that helps distribute torque. Depending on conditions, the system can send virtually all available power to the rear axle.
Both SUVs will be able to tow up to 7,700 pounds when they add the optional integrated hitch. They will also be able to use wheels up to 23 inches and high-performance tires.
Lots of space to bring the family
The size of the Q9 is also used inside. Audi offers as standard seven seats distributed in three rows, five climate zones and eight USB ports.
Cargo space reaches 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row and can grow to 87.7 cubic feet when the rear rows are folded. For those who prioritize comfort, a six-passenger configuration will also be available with two captain's chairs in the second row.
Rear occupants will also have electrical adjustments and a third-row access system that seeks to make things easier even when child seats are installed.
Technology that also looks towards the road
Audi took advantage of the launch to introduce its Digital Matrix LED headlights in the United States. The technology, which had been available in Europe for years, was adapted to US regulations.
The system can modify the intensity of the lighting in different sectors of the road and reduce the risk of dazzling other drivers. It will be standard on the SQ9 and can be ordered as an option on the Q9.
The technological offer also includes third-generation curved digital OLED headlights. These can display different light signatures and symbols intended to improve communication with other road users.
A panoramic roof of more than 1.5 square meters also appears in the SQ9, with electric opening and electronically adjustable transparency. The system is divided into nine independent segments.
The 2027 Audi Q9 and SQ9 will arrive in U.S. dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2026. The Q9 will start at $87,700, while the SQ9 will start at $118,000.
