Audi’s new 2027 Q9 and SQ9 three-row SUVs arrive

Audi calls the 2027 Q9 and its SQ9 version its largest SUVs yet. Both sit on Audi’s Premium Platform Combustion, a shared architecture that also supports the Q5 and Q7. The Q9 measures 209 inches long with a 123.5‑inch wheelbase and stands 71.4 inches tall, while the SQ9 is about 1.2 inches wider. Pricing starts at $89,095, including a $1,395 destination charge, and $119,395 for the SQ9. About 65 % of the Q9s built will be sold in the U.S. market.

Under the hood, the Q9 has a 2.9‑liter twin‑turbo V6 producing 429 hp and 442 lb‑ft of torque, enough for 0‑60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The SQ9 swaps that for a 4.0‑liter twin‑turbo V8 with 591 hp and 590 lb‑ft, which gets it to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds. Both use an eight‑speed automatic and Audi’s quattro all‑wheel‑drive system. The SQ9’s setup is rear‑wheel‑biased and adds an electronically controlled rear differential lock.

Tech‑heavy cabin

Inside, the Q9 offers a triple‑screen layout: a curved 11.9‑inch instrument cluster, a 14.5‑inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 12.3‑inch passenger display. A Bang & Olufsen 4D system with 22 speakers vibrates the front seats in time with the music. The cabin also has digital matrix LED headlights that avoid dazzling oncoming drivers, 512‑segment OLED taillights, and a 16‑cubic‑foot glass roof that can be fitted with electrochromatic technology. Adaptive cruise assist and hands‑free lane changes are also available.

Handling is tuned for both comfort and sport. The Q9 uses a Torsen centre differential. Its rear‑wheel steering, which comes with the Prestige package, turns the rear wheels up to five degrees to tighten the turning circle at low speed and to aid stability at high speed. The SQ9 has an electronically controlled rear differential lock, and its optional sport adaptive air suspension can lower the ride height by up to 0.8 in. Both models have variable‑ratio steering and an eight‑speed transmission that shifts smoothly. The SQ9’s wider rear wheels add grip through the corners.

On price, Audi places the Q9 between the Mercedes‑GLS and BMW X7. It costs less than the GLS but more than the X7.

Both vehicles were shown in St. George, Utah, where reviewers noted their size and power on winding mountain roads and in suburban settings.