Audi has officially unveiled the new Q9—the largest production vehicle in the history of the German brand. Created to rival the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS, this flagship crossover boasts massive dimensions, a premium interior, and technologies never before seen on Audi models. Order books are already open in Europe, with prices in Germany starting at 108,400 euros, while US buyers can purchase the vehicle starting at $87,700.

Audi Q9 Becomes the Brand's Largest Vehicle Ever

The standout feature of the new Audi Q9 is its size. The body length reaches 5.31 meters, and the wheelbase spans 3.14 meters. For comparison, the flagship is significantly larger than the Audi Q7: it is 250 mm longer, with a 145 mm increase in the distance between axles.

Despite its immense size, engineers equipped the crossover with rear-wheel steering that pivots up to five degrees to improve maneuverability in tight spaces and city traffic. The Q9 also features up to 23-inch wheels and an adaptive air suspension capable of adjusting ground clearance within a 90 mm range.

Innovative LED Lighting Design

Audi opted for a bold approach to lighting technology. The Q9 is the first production model from the brand to feature curved rear LED lights. Each unit comprises 512 individual segments grouped into six panels, wrapping around the vehicle's body sides for enhanced visibility. Additional safety functions include indicators that project directional signals onto the road and front optics designed to warn surrounding traffic of impending maneuvers.

High-Tech, Luxurious Interior with ChatGPT

The interior of the Audi Q9 accommodates up to seven passengers, with an optional layout featuring two separate, highly adjustable comfort seats in the second row. It is also the first Audi crossover equipped with automatic rear doors that open nearly 90 degrees utilizing collision-avoidance sensors.

A massive panoramic roof spans over 1.5 square meters, featuring adjustable transparency and an 84-LED ambient light system. Up front, the cabin houses three separate displays: a digital instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch central infotainment screen powered by Android (with integrated ChatGPT), and a dedicated 12.3-inch passenger display. Premium sound is delivered by a 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system equipped with built-in seat haptic elements.

Diesel and V8 Engine Lineup

In Europe, the Q9 launches with a 3.0-liter diesel V6 producing 299 hp and 630 Nm of torque, paired with an electric compressor, a 48V starter-generator, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive. A more affordable 245 hp variant will follow.

Meanwhile, the US market receives a distinct lineup starting with a 429 hp gasoline V6, alongside the top-tier SQ9 featuring a 4.0-liter V8 generating 591 hp and 800 Nm of torque, complete with specialized sport tuning.

Production Underway

Production of the flagship crossover is underway at Audi’s plant in Bratislava, with initial European deliveries slated for November. Future additions may include an ultra-luxurious "Horch" variant.