Audi Unveils Q9 SUV Rivaling Mercedes GLS and BMW X7 with Luxury Features

Audi has revealed its new flagship SUV, the Q9, designed to compete with luxury models like the Mercedes GLS and BMW X7. The Q9, along with its sportier SQ9 variant, is expected to arrive in Israel by late 2026 or early 2027. This large SUV continues Audi's design evolution seen in the Q3 and Q7, featuring a bold front grille with illuminated slats and digital OLED lighting that enhances visibility and safety.

Measuring 5.31 meters in length and 2.21 meters in width, the Q9 is significantly larger than the recently launched Q7. Its profile resembles an oversized station wagon with highlighted window frames and roof rails. The rear features split LED taillights with OLED technology projecting guiding lines on the ground. The interior maintains Audi's modern style with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch curved multimedia screen, and a 12.3-inch passenger display, all running on Android Automotive OS with integrated ChatGPT voice assistant.

Audi emphasizes premium materials inside, including alpaca wool fabric, Alcantara, Napa leather options, and wood trims. The panoramic sunroof spans 1.5 square meters with electric tinting and ambient lighting offering 30 colors. The cabin includes wireless charging pads, a 1,360-watt Bang & Olufsen 4D sound system with 22 speakers, and advanced comfort features such as electric captain seats in the six-seat configuration.

The Q9 offers two seating layouts: a seven-seat 2+3+2 arrangement with ISOFIX anchors and a six-seat 2+2+2 setup with electrically adjustable and heated seats. Under the hood, it features a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine producing 299 horsepower and 64.2 kgm torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. European markets will also get a micro-hybrid diesel variant with slightly lower output. Air suspension with adjustable ride height and rear-wheel steering enhance driving dynamics and maneuverability.

Safety and convenience technologies include automatic parking assist, trailer maneuvering aid, emergency braking if the driver is unresponsive, and lane-changing assistance. The braking system uses large discs with six-piston calipers for reliable stopping power. Audi has not yet disclosed the cargo volume behind the third row but states 581 liters behind the second row. The Q9 aims to blend luxury, space, and advanced technology for the premium SUV segment.