Audi debuted the 2027 Q9 in Munich, its new flagship full-size SUV designed primarily for the American market. At 209 inches long with a 123.5-inch wheelbase, it slots above the Q7 and competes directly with the Cadillac Escalade, Mercedes-Benz GLS, and BMW X7. The Q9 looked big in the studio but less imposing than its German rivals, featuring subtle curves and station wagon proportions.

The SUV rides on Volkswagen Group's new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture, shared with the latest Q7, A5, and Q5. With no concrete plans to replace the A8 sedan, the Q9 becomes the brand's range-topping model. Its third row benefits from the 5.6-inch wheelbase stretch over the Q7.

At launch, the Q9 uses a 2.9 L V6, while the performance SQ9 employs a twin-turbo V8 from the RS6/RS7. The SQ9 adds wider wheel arches, larger alloys, an illuminated grille, and rear-biased all-wheel drive for daily driving. Both models signal Audi's serious entry into the profitable full-size luxury SUV segment.