by Audi presented the interior of the new flagship SUV Q9
Audi has revealed the interior secrets of its new three-row SUV, which will become the flagship of the lineup, positioned above the established Q7. The 2027 model features power-operated doors, a panoramic roof with dimming capability, and a choice between six or seven seats. The vehicle, which will be produced in Europe with a focus on the US and Middle Eastern markets, will compete with models such as the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS.
Interior like business class
Audi’s largest SUV has yet to show its exterior without camouflage, but its interior already makes the main point clear. The new 2027 Q9 is not just a stretched Q7. It is Audi’s attempt to create a true luxury living room on wheels, capable of luring buyers away from the BMW X7, Mercedes GLS, and Cadillac Escalade.
The brand states that the Q9 was developed with a focus on comfort, space, and the so-called ‘inner experience.’ This means plenty of luxury and several technological ‘gimmicks’ that marketers call ‘surprise and delight’ features.
Like doors that open remotely via phone, through the MMI media system, by activating the seatbelt buckle or pressing the brake pedal, and are equipped with a set of sensors to ensure no one gets hurt and the neighboring car is not damaged.
Six or seven seats
Buyers will be able to choose between six- and seven-seat layouts, although the six-seat configuration is clearly the main highlight. In this option, the middle row of seats is replaced by a pair of captain’s chairs with wide adjustment options, heating, ventilation, and power drives. Audi claims the design was inspired by business-class seats on airplanes, which is quite fitting given how large this SUV looks.
Front seats and technologies
The front seats are also not neglected. In higher trims, massage functions and additional ventilation are added, and the dashboard features the usual Audi set of screens, including a display for the passenger. There is also a redesigned center console with two wireless phone chargers and cup holders large enough for oversized bottles.
Panoramic roof without a sunshade
Another major technological feature is the giant panoramic roof. The glass panel uses variable transparency technology, allowing individual sections to become opaque at the touch of a button. Audi has also installed integrated color lighting with 84 LEDs and 30 colors to choose from. Ambient lighting has truly reached new heights.
Abandonment of glossy black
Fortunately, Audi’s designers seem to have abandoned coating every surface with glossy black plastic. The Q9 instead uses textured coatings, matte materials, open-pore wood, and premium fabrics, including upholstery with an alpaca blend.
Production and price
However, behind all this luxury lies a potentially inconvenient reality. The Q9 is primarily aimed at buyers in the US (and the Middle East), but is reportedly being produced in Slovakia, Europe. This means Audi may face high import tariffs in the US, while competitors such as the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS benefit from American production.
More details about the Q9 will emerge in the coming weeks, including exact dimensions – a wheelbase of about 123 inches (3,124 mm) is expected versus 118 inches (2,997 mm) for the Q7. Engines are likely to be represented by powerful V6 and V8 units, and prices will likely start around $90,000, compared to $83,000 for the most expensive Q7.
Thus, the Audi Q9 is positioned as a direct competitor to the most luxurious full-size SUVs, offering an innovative interior with an emphasis on second-row passenger comfort. However, geopolitical and economic factors, particularly the production location and potential tariffs, could significantly impact its price appeal in the key US market. Whether the technological and luxurious interior can offset these costs, time and the official announcement will tell.
