2027 Audi Q9: Insights on the Premier Competitor to BMW X7 | Carscoops

      The new larger model will be positioned above the Q7 and Q8 in Audi's line of luxury SUVs.

      22 hours ago

      by Brad Anderson

      Audi's forthcoming Q9 SUV will boast a contemporary design and a more upscale appeal.

      In addition to the standard versions, Audi plans to introduce a sportier SQ9 and potentially an RS Q9.

      Renderings depict the SUV featuring a rear design akin to that of the new Audi A6 Avant.

      For more than a year, Audi has been quietly developing a new flagship SUV intended to compete with models like the Mercedes-Benz GLS and BMW X7. This new vehicle, likely named the Audi Q9, is set to attract buyers looking for a high-end German SUV. This assumes that tariffs don't intervene and disrupt plans for everyone involved.

      Recent spy images of what is believed to be the SQ9 variant have provided a clearer glimpse of the new SUV, inspiring these renderings from Nikita Chuyko. While some details are still uncertain, much of what is depicted here should closely resemble the final product. The Q9 is expected to be slightly taller and longer than the current Q7, featuring a design that is smoother, subtly more rounded, and distinctly more sophisticated.

      The Design

      Similar to numerous other brands, Audi has opted for a split headlight style that appears to be in vogue. The thin LED daytime running lights are positioned just below the hood, with the primary headlights located directly under them. The renderings created for Kolesa also showcase the Q9 with a darkened grille and extra air intakes at the bottom of the front bumper.

      The sides of the large SUV presented here contain some interesting details. The glossy black-painted fender flares are eye-catching, and there are compact touch-sensitive door handles similar to those found on the Ford Mustang Mach-E. The Q9 features smooth, flowing rear hips that enhance its visual appeal compared to the stubbier BMW X7. Additionally, the flared wheel arches will accommodate wider wheels and tires, likely ranging from 21 to 23 inches in diameter.

      Turning to the back, the Q9's taillights closely resemble those of the new A6 Avant, featuring a slim LED light bar. The Q9 is also depicted with a gloss black rear bumper that includes prominent reflectors.

      Inside, the spacious SUV will come equipped with a fully digital dashboard, incorporating Audi's latest MMI system. This will feature a dual-screen layout for the driver, along with an optional screen for the passenger. The tech-savvy design is also expected to extend to the second row, and there will indeed be a third row of seating.

      What About Powertrains?

      All indications point to the Q9 being constructed on the VW Group’s Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture, which is shared with several other Audi models. This platform will provide the brand with the versatility to offer a range of powertrain options, including gasoline, diesel, and plug-in hybrid variations. It supports both 2.0-liter four-cylinder and larger V6 engines, but it remains to be seen whether Audi will use both options or focus solely on the more powerful V6.

      The sportier SQ9 is likely to feature the same 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine as the SQ7, generating about 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft (770 Nm) of torque. However, an even more powerful RS Q9 could also be a possibility. For instance, Mercedes-AMG offers the GLS 63, which produces an impressive 603 hp from its own twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8. Audi might counter with the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 from the RS Q8, which delivers 631 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque in its Performance variant.

      When Will We See It?

      Audi has not yet confirmed details regarding the official unveiling of the Q9, nor has it acknowledged the model's existence. Nevertheless, we anticipate the Q9 will debut either at the end of this year or in the first half of 2026.

      In terms of pricing, prior to the potential tariff implications, we expected it to align with competitors like the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS, which begin around $85,000 and $89,000, respectively. However, the current uncertainty complicates matters. Even Audi has expressed concerns about the viability of offering its best-seller, the Q5, due to the possibility of a steep 52% tariff increase.