By Malusi Msomi

Audi has officially taken the wraps off the all-new Q9, introducing the largest SUV the German brand has ever produced. Positioned above the Q7 and Q8, the Q9 becomes Audi’s new flagship model, combining three-row practicality with luxury-focused features and the latest in the company’s technology.

At 5.31 metres long, 2.21 metres wide and standing 1.81 metres tall, the Q9 is designed to compete in the full-size luxury SUV segment. It also marks the first time Audi has used the Q9 nameplate, signalling its position at the very top of the brand’s SUV range.

Inside, the Q9 comes standard with seven seats, while buyers can opt for a six-seat configuration that replaces the second-row bench with two electrically adjustable captain’s chairs. These seats are available with heating, while the front sports seats can also be specified with ventilation and massage functions.

Audi has focused heavily on passenger comfort. One of the standout features is automatic doors, which can open and close electronically. Sensors monitor the surroundings to prevent the doors from hitting nearby obstacles, while a soft-close function ensures they shut quietly. Owners can even operate the doors remotely through the myAudi app.

Another highlight is Audi’s largest panoramic sunroof to date, spanning more than 1.5 square metres. It comes standard and can slide or tilt open, while an optional version features switchable transparency and integrated lighting that changes colour to match the cabin’s ambient lighting.

The cabin itself is finished with premium materials, and Audi says buyers will be able to choose between two distinct interior themes, allowing for a greater level of personalisation.

On the outside, the Q9 adopts a bold, upright design that emphasises its size. Buyers can choose between the standard Advanced trim, which features a more elegant look, or the sportier S line variant. Alloy wheels of up to 23 inches further enhance its road presence.

Lighting technology is another area where the Q9 pushes the envelope. It debuts Audi’s third-generation digital OLED rear lights, which feature curved glass panels for the first time. According to Audi, the design improves visibility from different angles while creating a more distinctive lighting signature.

The SUV also introduces ground-projected turn signals, which illuminate the road surface at night to make the vehicle’s intended direction more visible to other road users. Up front, Digital Matrix LED headlights with micro-LED technology provide more precise illumination and improved visibility.

Under the bonnet, the Q9 launches with a 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine producing 220kW and 630Nm. In selected European markets, a lower-output version with 180kW and 500Nm will also be available.

The engine is paired with Audi’s MHEV Plus mild-hybrid system, which can provide up to 18kW of additional assistance when needed. Power is sent to all four wheels through an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and Audi’s permanent quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Audi says the combination of mild-hybrid assistance, the electric-powered compressor and the V6 diesel delivers stronger acceleration while improving efficiency.

The new Audi Q9 will go on sale in Germany from the end of July 2026. There is no word yet on when it will land in South Africa, but we assume sometime in 2027.