WITH its largest SUV to date, Audi is assigning the number 9 for the first time and strategically expanding the top end of its model portfolio.

The new Audi Q9 is said to combine spaciousness, precise dynamics, and technological innovations in a single vehicle.

Highlights include third-generation curved digital OLED rear lights, individual electric seats in the second row, power doors and the largest panoramic sunroof ever fitted to an Audi.

Sophisticated suspension and quattro all-wheel drive, paired with highly efficient powertrains, guarantee remarkable performance and composure on almost every surface. The SUV will be available to order from the end of August, with first UK deliveries due at the end of the year.

"In the future, ‘Vorsprung durch Technik' will increasingly be defined by the in-car experience - because cars are much more than just a means of transportation. For many of our customers, they are becoming mobile living spaces," said Audi CEO Gernot Dollner. "That is exactly what the Audi Q9 represents as the new flagship of our portfolio. Premium materials, individual electric seats in the second row, and automatic doors underscore our commitment to quality in the interior. When combined with the latest driver assist systems and a holistic user experience, it becomes clear where we are taking the Audi brand."

Two interior variants with distinct equipment packages offer customers numerous options for personalisation.

The new Q9 seats seven passengers as standard. Large families will appreciate that all three seats in the second-row feature mounting points for child seats.

The Q9 is optionally available with six seats - delivering extra space and a business-class atmosphere. All six seats are partially power-adjustable with standard heating function.

The two electrically adjustable individual seats in the second row are a particular highlight.

In the third row, each seatback folds down individually at the push of a button. In the first row, the sports seat plus also adds ventilation and massage functions.

For the first time, automatic doors offer increased comfort when entering and exiting the vehicle. Extensive surround sensors protect against collisions: an obstacle detection system stops the door if it cannot be opened fully.

An electric soft-close mechanism ensures the doors shut gently. The power doors can be conveniently opened and closed from multiple control points and remotely via the myAudi app.

Another highlight of the Q9 interior is the largest-ever panoramic sunroof in an Audi, fitted as standard.

It features a glass surface of more than 1.5 square metres that can be opened wide or tilted. Optional features include switchable transparency, and, for the first time, illumination of the glass roof whose colour adapts to the personalised ambient lighting.

Measuring 5.31m long, 2.21m wide, and 1.81m tall, with a wheelbase of 3.14m, it is the largest Audi of all time.

Alloy wheels of up to 23 inches amplify the presence of the new Q9, while design elements such as the roof rails, bold rear overhang, and upright cabin emphasise the utility and generous proportions of the SUV.

The third-generation digital OLED rear lights set new standards for form, function, and safety. The outer digital OLED panels, a world first, are curved in three dimensions thanks to ultra-thin glass.

A second innovation in lighting technology similarly boosts road safety: the advanced turn signals. At night, this feature projects a stylized turn signal onto the ground in sync with the dynamic signals at the front and rear, ensuring high visibility for other road users.

Digital Matrix LED headlights with a micro-LED module provide excellent range, precise

At launch, the Q9 will be with a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine delivering 299ps and 630 Nm of torque. The engine also features MHEV plus technology with an electric-powered compressor for direct throttle response.

The Q9 is equipped with a fast-shifting eight-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive as standard.

The Q9 is manufactured in Bratislava and will be available to order at the end of August 2026 when full UK pricing and spec will be announced, with deliveries to commence by the end of the year.