In Detail: Audi SQ9

After years of speculation, Audi has officially entered the full-size luxury SUV segment with the debut of the all-new 2027 SQ9. Developed alongside the standard Q9, the new flagship model family becomes Audi’s largest SUV to date and is aimed squarely at the North American market, where demand for spacious three-row luxury SUVs continues to grow. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026, with pricing starting at $118,000 for the SQ9 and $87,700 for the Q9.

Positioned above the Q7 and Q8, the SQ9 combines a new rear-biased quattro drivetrain, a revised twin-turbocharged V8, extensive chassis technology, Audi’s latest lighting innovations and a cabin designed specifically around North American expectations for passenger space and long-distance comfort. While its size makes it Audi’s new flagship SUV, much of the engineering beneath the sheetmetal is also noteworthy.

NEW REAR-BIASED QUATTRO ARCHITECTURE

Powering the SQ9 is a revised version of Audi’s 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, Audi claims the SQ9 reaches 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, making it the quickest accelerating three-row SUV in its class. Maximum towing capacity is rated at 7,700 pounds.

The SQ9 introduces an all-new rear-biased quattro system capable of actively distributing torque between the front and rear axles through an electromechanical clutch. Under dynamic driving conditions, nearly all available torque can be directed rearward, while an electronically controlled locking rear differential manages torque distribution across the rear axle. The system works alongside brake torque vectoring, standard rear-wheel steering and staggered-width performance tires to give the large SUV more rear-drive characteristics while maintaining the traction advantages expected from quattro.

Standard adaptive air suspension provides approximately 3.5 inches of ride-height adjustment and up to 10 inches of ground clearance in Lift mode. Buyers can also specify a sport adaptive air suspension through the available S Sport Package. Six Audi drive select modes alter suspension calibration, steering, drivetrain behavior and ride height depending on driving conditions.

FULL-SIZE DIMENSIONS

At 208.9 inches long with a 123.5-inch wheelbase, the Q9 family becomes Audi’s largest production SUV. Every model comes standard with three rows of seating, while buyers can choose between a traditional seven-passenger layout or optional second-row captain’s chairs.

Audi paid particular attention to third-row accessibility. The second-row seats can tilt forward electronically even when compatible child seats remain installed, simplifying access to the rear. Cargo capacity measures 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row and expands to 87.7 cubic feet with both rear rows folded flat.

The interior also introduces several new convenience features for the brand, including automatic power-assisted doors, five-zone climate control, eight USB charging ports and the largest panoramic roof ever fitted to an Audi. Measuring more than 16 square feet, the glass roof incorporates electronically controlled transparency across nine independently adjustable sections, while an illuminated version is expected after launch.

MATRIX LIGHTING IN THE USA

One of the SQ9’s most significant technological debuts may have little to do with performance.

For the first time, Audi will offer Digital Matrix LED headlights with adaptive driving beam functionality in the United States. While Matrix lighting has been available in Europe for years, regulatory requirements have previously limited its introduction in North America. Audi says the new system has been engineered specifically to comply with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations while retaining the precision lighting capabilities that selectively illuminate the road without dazzling other motorists.

The Digital Matrix headlights utilize a new micro-LED chip containing more than 25,000 individual light elements capable of continuously adjusting beam distribution based on traffic, road geometry and navigation data. Drivers can also select from eight customizable daytime running light signatures through the MMI system.

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At the rear, the SQ9 also debuts what Audi describes as the world’s first curved digital OLED taillights on a production vehicle. Six OLED panels containing 512 individually controlled segments allow animated lighting signatures, communication lighting functions and improved visibility through their three-dimensional curved construction.

Another new feature projects the vehicle’s turn signal onto the pavement when changing lanes or turning at night, making the driver’s intentions more visible to pedestrians, cyclists and nearby traffic.

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DIGITAL CABIN

The SQ9 adopts Audi’s latest Digital Stage interior architecture centered around a panoramic display combining the Audi virtual cockpit with a 14.5-inch central touchscreen and a dedicated 12.3-inch passenger display. Standard equipment includes a head-up display, Amazon Alexa integration, Qi2 wireless phone charging, an integrated dashcam and heated, ventilated and massaging front seats trimmed in Fine Nappa leather. Heated second-row outboard seats and heated third-row seating are also standard in U.S.-spec SQ9 models.

Available Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound introduces headrest speakers and 4D bass reproduction through seat-mounted actuators, creating a more immersive listening experience without increasing overall cabin volume.

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DRIVER ASSISTANCE

The SQ9 also becomes Audi’s first U.S. model to offer adaptive cruise assist plus with hands-free highway driving. Classified as an SAE Level 2 partial automated driving system, it can control steering, braking and acceleration on approved highway segments while continuously monitoring driver attention through an interior-facing camera. Standard safety equipment also includes automated emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic assist, surround-view cameras, automated parking assistance and trailer stability control.

NEW HALO FOR AUDI RANGE

While the SQ9’s performance figures are certain to attract attention, its broader significance lies in establishing a true flagship for Audi’s SUV lineup. Beyond the addition of a larger three-row model, the Q9 family introduces a new rear-biased quattro system, Audi’s first U.S.-legal Digital Matrix LED headlights, curved digital OLED taillights and the brand’s latest Level 2 hands-free driving technology. Together, they make the SQ9 not simply Audi’s largest SUV, but arguably its most technologically advanced as well.