Here’s a long, SEO‑friendly review of the 2026 Audi Q9 SUV — covering everything from design and specs to performance, interior, pricing, and how it stacks up against rivals. Audi’s Q9 is among the most anticipated luxury SUVs of the 2026 model year. (CarVira)
2026 Audi Q9 SUV Review — Flagship Luxury in Full‑Size Form
The 2026 Audi Q9 marks Audi’s bold entry into the full‑size luxury SUV segment, designed to compete with rivals such as the BMW X7, Mercedes‑Benz GLS, Lincoln Navigator, and Cadillac Escalade. It arrives as Audi’s largest and most sophisticated SUV ever, blending premium materials, advanced technology, three‑row capability, and a range of hybrid‑enhanced powertrains for global markets. (CarVira)
🚘 Positioning & Introduction
The Q9 represents Audi’s flagship SUV, offering:
- Largest Audi SUV ever built
- Three‑row seating for up to seven passengers
- Premium design and luxury focus
- Advanced hybrid and combustion powertrain options
- Competes against the biggest players in the category (CarVira)
Production is expected to begin in late 2026, with sales in key markets (including the U.S., Europe, and UAE) soon after. (CarVira)
🚗 Design: Bold, Modern, and Premium
The 2026 Audi Q9 carries a distinctive design language that echoes Audi’s current SUV lineup but on a much larger, more commanding scale.
Exterior Highlights
- Large hexagon‑patterned grille flanked by sleek headlamps
- Bold bumper design with dynamic air intakes and strong shoulder lines
- Full‑width rear light bar and modern LED lighting signature
- Quad exhaust tips hinting at performance‑oriented variants like the SQ9 (CarLelo)
The Q9’s proportions give it a presence that stands out on the road — tall, long, and wide — while maintaining a sophisticated and refined appearance expected in this class. (CarLelo)
🛠 Platform & Powertrain
Audi builds the Q9 on an extended Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) that supports a range of longitudinal engines and hybrid systems. (CarVira)
Expected Powertrain Options
| Powertrain | Key Specs | Estimated Role |
|---|---|---|
| 3.0L Turbo V6 Mild Hybrid | ~340 hp, ~369 lb‑ft torque | Balanced performance & efficiency |
| 3.0L Plug‑In Hybrid (Q9 55 TFSI e) | ~480 hp total output, ~40 mi EV range | Daily comfort + electric driving |
| 4.0L V8 (SQ9) | High performance | Sport‑oriented flagship |
Audi’s integration of mild hybrid and plug‑in hybrid setups provides a balance between power, refinement, and reduced emissions, helping the Q9 stay competitive and versatile across global markets. (CarVira)
The standard drivetrain is quattro all‑wheel drive, with adaptive suspension expected to be fitted across trims for enhanced ride comfort and stability. (CarVira)
📊 Performance & Driving Dynamics
Even in its base form, the Audi Q9 promises strong performance for a vehicle of this size:
- 340 hp V6 engine delivers smooth acceleration and effortless highway cruising
- Plug‑in hybrid models provide added torque and short electric‑only driving capability for city commutes
- Potential high‑output V8 versions will appeal to performance enthusiasts
The Q9’s adaptive air suspension and torque‑vectoring systems are designed to keep the SUV planted and balanced, even when fully loaded or towing. (CarVira)
Towing Capability: The Q9 could offer up to ~7,700–8,000 lbs of towing capacity, matching or surpassing many rivals in the full‑size luxury SUV segment. (Melodypix)
🛋 Interior: Roomy, Luxurious, & Tech‑Rich
The Audi Q9’s cabin is expected to be one of the most spacious and refined interiors in its class.
Seating & Space
- Three rows accommodating 6–7 passengers
- Spacious second and third rows thanks to extended wheelbase
- Optional six‑seat configuration for executive comfort (CarLelo)
Materials & Comfort
The cabin is likely to feature premium leather or luxury synthetic materials, wood or aluminum trim options, and customization choices that rival other flagship SUVs.
Infotainment & Connectivity
Expect a multi‑screen digital cockpit with:
- Large central infotainment display
- Digital driver display
- Advanced connectivity including wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto
- Optional rear entertainment screens on higher trims (Melodypix)
Four‑zone climate control, ambient lighting, and premium sound system options will further elevate the onboard experience.
🛡 Safety & Driver Assistance
Audi typically equips its flagship SUVs with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver‑assist technologies, including:
- Adaptive Cruise Assist with lane‑centering
- Intersection Assist
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Audi Pre Sense 360° monitoring
These systems aim to provide a high level of safety for family and executive transportation.
💰 Pricing & Trim Levels
While official pricing isn’t yet confirmed, early projections suggest:
| Trim | Estimated Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Premium | ~$80,000 – $85,000 |
| Premium Plus | ~$90,000 – $95,000 |
| Prestige | ~$95,000 – $100,000 |
| SQ9 (Performance) | ~$105,000 – $115,000 |
This pricing positions the Audi Q9 competitively against full‑size German rivals, often offering strong value relative to comparable models. (Autvex)
🧠 Strengths & Highlights
👍 Key Benefits
- Flagship luxury and presence: Audi’s largest and most premium SUV yet
- Flexible powertrains: Mild hybrid and plug‑in hybrid choices appeal to diverse buyers
- Strong towing and passenger space: Ideal for families and long journeys
- Advanced technology suite: Infotainment, safety, and driver assistance expected to be class‑leading
- Competitive pricing: Positioned attractively versus rivals (CarVira)
👎 Possible Drawbacks
- Third‑row space might feel tight for taller adults on long journeys (typical of large three‑row SUVs) (Autvex)
- Adaptive suspension may lean toward sportier firmness rather than ultra‑luxury cushioning for some buyers (Autvex)
- Final official specs and powertrain details are still pending release
📌 Final Verdict: A New Flagship SUV for Audi
The 2026 Audi Q9 SUV represents a major step for Audi into flagship SUV territory. With luxury, powertrain diversity, three‑row practicality, and advanced technology, the Q9 is poised to compete with the best in its class. It balances everyday usability with long‑distance comfort and premium refinement, making it appealing to families, executives, and luxury SUV buyers alike.
As Audi’s most ambitious SUV project to date, the 2026 Q9 should make headlines for its design, capability, and overall value proposition — especially once full specifications and official pricing are revealed. (CarVira)