Audi’s Flagship SUV, Q9
Boasts a Larger Body Size than Q8
With Sportier Design
In the fiercely competitive SUV market, Audi recently announced the development of its full-size SUV, the Q9, signaling a heated battle among the three German automakers: Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. Although Audi already has the Q7, it lacked a model that directly competed with BMW’s X7 or Mercedes-Benz’s GLS.
There have been criticisms that Audi is lagging in the SUV market, trending towards larger and more appealing models. However, the launch of the Q9 is expected to quench the thirst of consumers longing for a full-size SUV.
Adopting Split Headlights
Slim DLR Design
The Q9, which has been test-driving at the Nürburgring for several years, has been spotted several times in spy shots. Based on these, a realistic rendering of the expected design has been released. The most prominent feature of the front design is the split headlights, similar to the X7. This was also captured in the test drive shots.
The daytime running lights on the top have a very slim design, extending along the line of the hood to the side. A spacious hood has a clamshell design, creating a sleek look. Underneath the hood, a V-shaped, dense-pattern grill has been installed. It’s smaller than the Q7 grill, which extends to the lower part and occupies a large volume. The Q7’s grill design revealed an intense look with angular lines, but the Q9’s design has become softer with curves.
Design Considering Third-Row Space
Protruding Rear Taillights
The side view has a high roof line, and the rear drops in a slight arch. The D-pillar has an almost vertical sharpness, adopting a design that considers the headroom for the third-row space. The rear features horizontal taillights that protrude outward, extending further into the side quarter panel. The ends of the taillights stretch sharply downward.
Although detailed powertrain information has not been released, it is expected to feature an upgraded MBL platform, which will be the basis for the soon-to-be-launched A5, the successor to the A4. A V8 twin-turbo gasoline engine is expected to be installed, and various powertrains, including mild hybrids and plug-in hybrids, are expected to be available. Quattro all-wheel drive is likely to be standard, and all models will be equipped with a dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Design Focused on Ride Comfort
Expected Release in 2026
The Q9 is reportedly being designed with a focus on improving ride comfort. It provides a stable ride with sturdy suspension and front bucket seats. It also has enhanced safety with high-performance brakes. An Audi engineer stated, “The Q9 is one of the most comfortable models to ride in, and we are paying special attention to chassis tuning.”
The exact release date for the Q9 has not been announced. Still, according to an interview with Audi Australia Director Jeff Mannering in January, the company plans to add a large SUV within two years, so production is expected to begin in 2026.
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