Audi SQ9: Everything We Know About the New High Performance 3 Row SUV Built to Challenge BMW and Mercedes
Audi is getting into the full-size performance SUV game with the new flagship 2027 SQ9, intended for drivers who desire considerable speed without sacrificing space, luxury or practicality for daily use. The SQ9 sits atop the SQ7 and is Audi’s answer to established three-row luxury cars like the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS. Its combination of V8 power, sophisticated chassis technology and a luxurious six- or seven-seat cabin makes it one of Audi’s most important new cars in years.
Audi SQ9 Performance SUV brings V8 power to 3 rows
The Audi SQ9 performance SUV has an updated 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 making 591 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. Audi says the car will go from 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds, which is impressive for a car this large. Power comes through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a rear-biased quattro all-wheel-drive system. The SUV stays stable and responsive during fast driving with an electronically controlled rear differential and brake-based torque vectoring.
Adaptive Air Suspension & Rear Wheel Steering
The SQ9 is a blend of everyday comfort and competent handling. Its adaptive air suspension can adjust ride height and dampening based on selected driving mode or road conditions. The rear wheels can steer up to five degrees in four-wheel steering. This should make the huge SUV easier to operate in small places and improve stability at greater speeds. Buyers can also opt for a S Sport package with a stiffer suspension setup and 22-inch and 23-inch wheels to further enhance its performance-focused character.
Bigger Flagship SUV with Real Third Row Seating
The Q9 family is far bigger than the Q7, measuring 209.1 inches in length and a 123.6 inch wheelbase, and offers the foundation for Audi’s roomiest SUV cabin. The SQ9 has three rows of seats, and can seat six or seven people depending on how the seats are arranged. The configuration is excellent for families, professional travel and longer flights with power-adjustable seats and easy third-row access. It also offers about 50 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded, while its maximum towing capacity is set at 7,700 pounds.
2027 Ford Bronco: Utah Desert Inspired Design Reveals the Boldest Off Road SUV Ford Has Ever BuiltPremium Interior Tech and Passenger Comfort
Inside, you’ll find an 11.9-inch driver display, 14.5-inch central touchscreen and a 12.3-inch front passenger display. It has an infotainment system based on Android with third-party application support and Amazon Alexa voice control. Among the equipment on offer are five-zone climate control, power-operated doors, a panoramic glass roof with adjustable transparency and a 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen 4D audio system. Fine Nappa leather, carbon-weave trim and less-glossy surfaces give SQ9 a cleaner, more sophisticated vibe.
Audi SQ9: Signature Design, Lighting
The SQ9 gets a honeycomb-style grille, S-specific bumpers, four exhaust outlets and larger rear tyres. Its strong stance is aided by the optional 23-inch Audi Sport wheels. Digital Matrix LED headlights allow each element to be individually controlled to improve visibility without causing undue glare for other road users. The curved OLED rear lights have varied patterns and can be used to warn if another car gets too near.
Audi SQ9 Price And Release Date.
Audi expects to start delivering the vehicles to U.S. customers in the fourth quarter of 2026. The SQ9 will be sold in a single trim level and will start at a price of $118,000 (without including destination fees) or $119,395 with the specified destination fee. Its potent V8, roomy three-row cabin and generous tech suite provide Audi a legitimate flagship offering for buyers shopping high-performance luxury SUVs from BMW, Mercedes-Benz and other premium brands.
Sources
- Audi USA: Confirms the SQ9’s 591-hp twin-turbo V8, quattro system, adaptive S air suspension, available 23-inch wheels and premium interior equipment.
- Audi Global: Details the six- and seven-seat cabin, automatic doors, panoramic roof, premium materials, charging technology and passenger-focused interior design.
- Car and Driver: Reports the 3.8-second acceleration time, $119,395 delivered price, exterior dimensions, performance equipment and late-2026 US arrival.
- Road & Track: Provides information about the SQ9’s suspension, rear-wheel steering, towing capability, cargo space, digital displays and driver-assistance technology.
- Autoweek: Covers the flagship SUV’s individual second-row seating, electrically powered doors, three-row layout and luxury cabin positioning.
