Audi unveiled the Q9, its largest and most luxurious SUV ever, stepping into the ring against the likes of BMW X7, Mercedes-Benz GLS, and Cadillac Escalade. The full-size three-row flagship marks Audi’s first attempt at the segment long dominated by German and American rivals, with deliveries beginning Q4 2026.
Pricing starts at $89,095 for the standard Q9, powered by a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 producing 429 horsepower and hitting 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The SQ9 starts at $119,395, with 591 horsepower and a 3.8-second sprint to 60 mph, putting it ahead of most rivals in its class on raw pace.
Where the Q9 tries to make itself stand out is cabin experience: a 123.5-inch wheelbase creates genuine adult-friendly space in all three rows, alongside heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. The interior features an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, a Bang & Olufsen 4D sound system with 22 speakers, and standard rear-wheel steering for tighter maneuvering despite the SUV’s massive size.
Compared to its rivals, the Q9 undercuts the BMW X7 and Escalade on outright horsepower for the base engine, though it holds its own on price and cabin luxury. Moreso, Audi’s US configurator is already live, with a fully loaded SQ9 topping out at $130,245, and launch incentives already include 4.99% APR financing and a $1,500 loyalty discount.
