From Car and Driver · · 2m
Audi Q9 and SQ9 Enter Luxury-SUV Market
Audi launches 2027 Q9 and SQ9 luxury SUVs targeting North American buyers with premium features and performance.
In brief
Audi launches 2027 Q9 and SQ9 luxury SUVs targeting North American buyers with premium features and performance. Audi introduces 2027 Q9 and SQ9 luxury SUVs with 429 hp V-6 and 591 hp V-8 engines, targeting North American luxury SUV buyers. Originally reported by Car and Driver.
Audi Enters Luxury-SUV Market
Audi launches 2027 Q9 and SQ9 luxury SUVs to compete with Mercedes-Benz and BMW in North America.
North American Focus
Audi expects 65 percent of Q9 sales to occur in North America, targeting Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator competitors.
Q9 and SQ9 Dimensions
Q9 has a 123.5-inch wheelbase, 208.9- to 209.0-inch length, and outpaces BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS by several inches.
Interior Features
Q9 offers captain’s chairs, 16 square foot sunroof, oversized cupholders, and power-adjustable seats with removable armrests.
Third-Row Seating
Third-row seats provide more headroom than Mercedes or BMW but have flat bases and limited legroom for passengers.
Front Passenger Experience
Front seats offer comfortable support for long drives, with SQ9’s sportier seats providing more aggressive bolstering.
Engine Performance
Q9 features a 429-hp twin-turbo 2.9-liter V-6, while SQ9 has a 591-hp twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine.
SQ9 Performance
SQ9 accelerates to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and features rear-wheel steering for improved maneuverability.
Advanced Technology
Q9 and SQ9 include adaptive cruise control with hands-free driving up to 85 mph and 4D sound reproduction.
Headlights and Safety
Q9 and SQ9 use adaptive digital matrix led headlights that create dark shadows around approaching vehicles.
Pricing and Options
Q9 starts at $89,095 with optional towing up to 7,700 pounds; SQ9 starts at $119,395.
Market Position
Audi aims to capture North American luxury SUV market with Q9 and SQ9 as first foray into large luxury segment.
Performance Claims
Q9 V-6 claims 4.9-second 60 mph time, SQ9 V-8 claims 3.8-second 60 mph time.
Quattro All-Wheel Drive
SQ9 features electronically controlled locking rear differential and all-wheel-drive clutch for improved traction.
Rear-Wheel Steering
SQ9 includes rear-wheel steering that reduces turning radius by up to five degrees.
Final Verdict
Audi’s Q9 and SQ9 combine strong performance, quiet ride, and advanced tech but may not stand out in crowded luxury SUV market.
What matters most
Audi introduces 2027 Q9 and SQ9 luxury SUVs with 429 hp V-6 and 591 hp V-8 engines, targeting North American luxury SUV buyers.
