Audi enters full-size SUV market

Audi has unveiled the Q9, its first large full-size SUV and the biggest vehicle the German brand has produced.

The flagship model measures 5.31 metres long, 2.21 metres wide from mirror to mirror and 1.81 metres tall. Its wheelbase stretches 3.14 metres.

Audi developed the Q9 with a strong focus on the United States, where large premium SUVs remain important to the market.

Chief executive Gernot Döllner said the model combines modern technology, quality and a spacious cabin with a focus on comfort and safety.

Deliveries are scheduled to begin in selected markets from the fourth quarter of 2026. Audi has not confirmed whether the Q9 will be sold in South Africa.

Seven seats and business-class comfort

The Q9 comes standard with seven seats.

Buyers can also choose a six-seat configuration featuring two electrically adjustable individual seats in the second row.

Third-row seatbacks can be folded separately at the touch of a button, while front occupants can get ventilated and massaging sports seats.

Other features include five-zone climate control and automatic doors that can be operated from several control points or remotely through the myAudi app.

Every Q9 receives Audi’s largest panoramic sunroof, covering more than 1.5 square metres.

Hands-free driving technology

Audi’s adaptive cruise assist plus system can control steering, acceleration and braking on approved roads.

Drivers will be able to remove their hands from the steering wheel at speeds of up to 130km/h in supported areas of the US, Canada and Germany.

The Q9 also introduces curved digital OLED rear lights and turn signals that project a symbol onto the road at night.

V6 and V8 engines offered

Germany will receive a 220kW V6 diesel producing 630Nm, while a 180kW version will be offered in selected markets.

The US model uses a three-litre turbocharged V6 petrol engine. All V6 models feature quattro all-wheel drive.

The performance-focused SQ9 uses a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 producing 591 horsepower. Audi claims it can reach 100km/h in four seconds.

Both versions feature adaptive air suspension, rear-wheel steering and a towing capacity of up to 3 500kg.

The Q9 will be built at the Volkswagen Group’s Bratislava factory in Slovakia.