Audi has officially unveiled the new Q9, the largest SUV in the German automaker’s lineup.
The new Audi Q9 will compete directly with the Mercedes-Benz GLS and BMW X7. The model was developed primarily for the U.S. market, although it will also be sold outside America, including Europe. Audi said that in Europe, the Q9 will be offered with a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel engine currently used in the Q7. Its maximum output reaches 299 horsepower. The turbo-diesel engine is paired with electric turbochargers, a 9-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive. In the U.S., the new Q9 could debut with a 2.9-liter gasoline engine producing up to 436 horsepower. A version with a 599-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter engine is also possible.
The new Audi Q9 comes standard with adaptive suspension and a rear-wheel steering system that turns the rear wheels by up to 5 degrees. This makes maneuvering in tight spaces easier. The German model measures 5,310 mm in length, 2,210 mm in width, and has a 3,140 mm wheelbase. Positioned at the top of Audi’s lineup, the new Q9 will offer buyers a wide range of premium equipment. However, the German company has not yet revealed all details about the SUV.
The side doors on the new model open up to 90 degrees. They feature built-in electric motors, allowing the doors to be operated remotely, similar to Rolls-Royce models. The SUV is equipped with a door-exit collision warning system. The new Audi comes standard with seven seats, while a six-seat configuration is available as an option. In the latter case, the second row features two separate power-adjustable captain’s chairs. Thanks to its large dimensions, even adult passengers can sit comfortably in the rear seats of the Audi Q9.
The new model features panoramic glazing with an area of 1.5 square meters, larger than that of any other Audi model. It is divided into nine sections with adjustable transparency. Along the perimeter of the power sunroof are 84 LEDs that can illuminate in one of 30 available colors. The panoramic glass automatically becomes opaque after the vehicle is parked.
In addition, Audi equipped the new Q9 with a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system featuring 22 speakers and 1,360 watts of power. Engineers integrated actuators into the seats that pulse in sync with the music. Speakers are installed in the headrests to deliver navigation instructions. The SUV is also available with a system that moves the vehicle to the side of the road and contacts emergency services if the driver loses consciousness.