Audi is testing the upcoming Q9 seven-seat SUV in close-to-production form ahead of its expected debut next year. Our sister publication, Autocar UK, recently published spy shots of a Q9 test mule, which hint at the design and proportions of Audi’s new flagship SUV.
- Audi Q9 prototype spy shots show off longer dimensions than the next-gen Q7
- The Q9’s interior will feature a three-row, seven-seat layout
- Plug-in hybrid powertrains are likely to be standard across the Q9 range
Audi Q9 exterior and interior design
Larger proportions than next-gen Q7 indicate a roomier cabin
Compared to last year’s spy images of the next-gen Q7, the Q9 looks to have a noticeably longer wheelbase and rear overhang, alluding to a greater amount of space in the second and third rows. The Q9 is expected to sport a seven-seat layout, but a six-seat layout, similar to the one offered in the Bentley Bentayga, is also possible.
Elsewhere, the Q9’s styling mostly resembles that of the next-gen Q7, with the front end prominently featuring a large hexagon-patterned grille flanked by a split headlight setup and a wide air dam with similar hexagonal elements lower down on the bumper. Over to the rear, there’s a roof spoiler and a lightbar stretching across the width of the Q9. Quad exhaust tips can also be observed on the test mule, suggesting that a sportier SQ9 variant is in the works.
Audi Q9 powertrain specs
The Q9 is anticipated to leverage an extended version of Volkswagen’s new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), which can accommodate longitudinally mounted powertrains ranging from 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engines all the way through to V8 units.
Plug-in hybrid powertrains throughout the Q9 range
All Q9 variants will likely be powered by plug-in hybrid setups, especially in light of Audi reassessing its ICE car launch plans due to a slowdown in EV adoption and the carmaker’s investment in hybrid powertrains.
Audi Q9 launch details
Set to break cover in 2026, the Q9 will sit at the pinnacle of Audi’s SUV line-up in markets like the US, UK, China, and the UAE. The Q9’s rivals include the BMW X7, Mercedes-Benz GLS, and Range Rover.
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