Here is your first look at the Audi Q9, set for a world premiere in Q3 of 2026 and the three-row flagship SUV is also the twin for Porsche’s upcoming SUV that will sit above the Cayenne. While the exterior is still lathered in camouflage vinyl, the first look focuses more on its interior to
Here is your first look at the Audi Q9, set for a world premiere in Q3 of 2026 and the three-row flagship SUV is also the twin for Porsche’s upcoming SUV that will sit above the Cayenne.
While the exterior is still lathered in camouflage vinyl, the first look focuses more on its interior to give its chief rivals, the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS, a run for their luxo-barge money.
Earlier reports also indicated that the Q9 will serve as the marque’s flagship for some years as its current crown jewel, the A8, will be discontinued for a few years.
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Porsche is also in the midst of working on a new flagship SUV that will be positioned above the Cayenne, codenamed K1, and the Q9 previews it in similar fashion to how the Cayenne is the Q7’s twin. The Audi Q8 is a twin to the Lamborghini Urus. The Q9 will ride on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) foundation, the same as the current Audi A5, A6 and Q5.
While the exterior is wrapped, the silhouette does give some clues as to its appearance. The rear roofline is boxier over the Q7’s curved line, to carve out more headroom for the third-row occupants.
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You will find taillights inspired by the A6 and the mandatory full-width light bar that every SUV on earth now carries. The rear number plate recess is dropped into the bumper for smoother rear hatch and quad exhaust tips hint at a sportier SQ9.
Being a premium luxury offering, the doors are automatic and the dashboard is signature Audi with the MMI panoramic display setup comprising twin curved screens for the infotainment and digital instrument display. The front passenger gets their own display as well.
The driver navigates with the flat bottom and top steering wheel while the gear selector is mounted on the column to free up space in the centre console. This space is now occupied by two Qi2.2 wireless chargers, complemented by USB-C charging ports that output up to 100 W.
Late to the show, the light strip on the dashboard is synced with the Bang & Olufsen 4D sound system to pulse in rhythm with the music. The front headrests feature speakers for the driver to directly answer calls or listen to navigation directions.
Buyers can choose between a six- or seven-seater layout, with optional sports seats that feature ventilation and massage functionality. Opt for the former layout and the second row captain’s chairs come with full power adjustment, ventilation and armrests.
Cargo versatility is improved with aluminium rails integrated into the walls of the boot. The sliding hooks and anchors allows cargo to be strapped in above the floor, leaving space for larger items.
Expect motivation to be provided by the familiar 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 and 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that should also propel the Porsche K1 but in a much higher state of tune.