Audi Unveils New Full-Sized Flagship Q9 and SQ9 SUVs
Featuring massive power and some seriously new lighting tech.
Audi just unveiled its latest in the SUV department with the Q9 and SQ9. The pair represent the biggest, innovative, and luxurious releases ever.
Audi is literally going big with the first-ever Q9 and SQ9, an all-new three-row flagship built specifically to cater to the U.S. market’s demand for full-size luxury SUVs. The Q9 platform stretches 208.9” inches on a 123.5” wheelbase, the biggest chassis the brand has ever made. Design cues include a raised shoulder line, monolithic front fascia, and a straight window line that, according to the brand, projects quiet confidence rather than aggressive flash.
For the SQ9, a revised 4.0L twin-turbo V8 sends 591 hp and 590 lb-ft. of torque through an eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox, accelerating the SQ9 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds. During the press conference, the Audi representative made specific mention that this was class leading, compared to offerings from Mercedes, BMW and Land Rover. The performance is supported with a rear-biased Quattro all-wheel drive system with electronically controlled differential lock, and staggered width 23” performance rubber. The Q9 is a bit more everyday relatable with its 429 hp, 442 lb-ft. of torque, 2.9L V6 engine.
Lighting is where the Q9 and SQ9 truly flexes its flagship status. Digital Matrix LED headlights make their U.S. debut, using arrays of micro-LEDs to selectively dim segments and slash glare for oncoming traffic. Around back, third-generation curved digital OLED tail lights mark a world-first for production vehicles, allowingdynamic light signatures to be visible from wider angles. What was really cool was the advanced turn signals, which project stylized indicators onto the pavement at night that allow others – like approaching cars or even cyclists – to see alongside the Q9 before it even enters the lane.
Inside, the Q9 platform seats up to seven, with available captain’s chairs – with removable arm rests – delivering limousine-level comfort in the second row while preserving easy pass-through access to the third row.
Audi state that the Q9 and SQ9 will be available to order now, with US deliveries starting first in Q4.
