Audi Q9: The Top of the Audi SUV Range Arrives in 2026
Official: Audi Q9, Rival to X7 and GLS, Arrives on the Market in 2026
Ingolstadt has officially confirmed: the Audi Q9, the brand's largest and most luxurious SUV, will have its world premiere in 2026, marking a strategic offensive in the large luxury segment. The new model is set to compete directly with established rivals such as the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS.
After years of speculation and sneak peeks, Audi has officially confirmed the launch of its new flagship SUV: the Audi Q9. The announcement, discreetly slipped into a press release regarding sales results, positions the model's global debut for 2026. This launch is part of a broader product initiative that also includes the new generation of the Q7, along with an entry-level electric vehicle.
A Flagship Positioning
The Q9 is not just another variant, but will become the new flagship SUV of the brand with the four rings, sitting above the current Q7 and the Q8 coupe. Its main objective is to attract customers in key markets where demand for large, ultra-luxury SUVs is strong, especially in North America and China.
- Direct Rivals: BMW X7, Mercedes-Benz GLS and, in its top versions, even ultra-luxury models like the Mercedes-Maybach GLS (via the possible Q9 Horch variant).
- Dimensions: The Q9 is expected to exceed 5 meters in length, offering generous interior space and, most likely, six- or seven-seat configurations (individual "captain chairs" are expected for the second row in luxury versions).
Platform and Engines
The new Q9 will use the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture, a flexible platform developed by Audi and Porsche that will underpin several future models with combustion and hybrid engines, including the new generations of the A5, Q5 and A6.
Engines: Although full details are lacking, a diverse range of engines is expected to meet global requirements:
- Mild-Hybrid versions with V6 engines.
- Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) options, aligned with current electrification trends.
- A high-performance SQ9 variant, expected to be equipped with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine.
Luxury Design and Amenities
Design sketches and spied prototypes suggest an evolved design language, with a wide and imposing Singleframe grille, slim optical blocks and a silhouette designed to maximize passenger space, especially in the third row.
The interior will be the highlight, incorporating the latest Audi technologies, premium materials and a major focus on rear passenger comfort. Speculation points to a level of luxury that could include:
- Individual rear seats, ventilated and with massage function.
- The latest Audi MMI infotainment system.
- Interior finishes that evoke a "modern living", differentiating themselves from direct competition through refinement.
A Brave Strategy
The launch of the Q9 at a time when many manufacturers are focusing exclusively on electric vehicles shows that Audi is not giving up on internal combustion engines, continuing to offer powerful and hybrid options for the luxury segments. The Q9 is the missing piece in Audi's portfolio to compete on an equal footing with German rivals in the large luxury SUV niche.
It remains to be seen whether Audi will manage to recover the lost ground in this segment, but one thing is certain: the year 2026 promises to be a crucial one for the Ingolstadt manufacturer's product strategy.