Introducing the Audi Q9
Audi is now entering the full-size luxury SUV segment, a class it has watched from the sidelines for many years. It has built large SUVs before, but never one on this scale. The Audi Q9 measures 5.31 metres long with a 3.14-metre wheelbase.
This new SUV sits above the Q8 as the new flagship of the range, and Audi is using the number nine for the first time to mark the shift.
Three rows of seating come as standard, with room for seven. An optional six-seat layout swaps the middle bench for two electric individual seats. The Q9 prioritises comfort over outright capacity. Either way, the cabin favours premium materials and precise detail. Upholstery choices include wool, Dinamica microfibre and fine Nappa leather.
The Q9 particularly suits those with growing families who still expect the comfort and technology associated with the Audi badge.
Design and Practicality
Plenty of SUVs promise a usable third row. Few actually deliver on that claim. Built around the long wheelbase, the Q9 offers impressive space for adults in the third row, not just the usual children's perch.
The second row splits 35/30/35, with mounting points for three child seats across the bench. Each seat is electrically adjustable. The outer seats in row two also slide and tilt forward at the touch of a button. Adding to the convenience, child seats can stay fitted while passengers make their way to the third row.
Automatic doors are a first for Audi. They open to a wide angle and stop automatically if a person or object blocks their path. A soft electric mechanism closes them gently.
The standard panoramic sunroof is the largest ever fitted to an Audi. It spans more than 1.5 square metres and blocks over 99.5 percent of UV rays.
Technology and Safety
One curved glass panel on the dashboard houses the 12.3-inch virtual cockpit and the 14.5-inch touchscreen, with a separate 12.3-inch screen for the passenger alongside it.
The Audi assistant handles voice commands for navigation and other functions.
The centre console includes a dual wireless charger built to the Qi2.2 standard, letting two phones charge wirelessly at the same time. Better still, the Q9 runs on Android Automotive OS with its own built-in app store, so drivers can stream music or video without first pairing a smartphone.
The Q9 introduces curved digital OLED rear lights, a world first. Advanced turn signals project onto the road surface at night. This alerts cyclists and pedestrians to a turn before it happens.
Adaptive driving assistant plus allows hands-free driving on approved motorway sections. Emergency assist steers the car onto the hard shoulder and brings it safely to a stop if the driver ever becomes unresponsive.
Engines and Performance
Two versions of the three-litre V6 diesel are available. The more powerful produces 295bhp and 465lb ft of torque, ahead of the entry unit's 241bhp and 369lb ft. Both use Audi's MHEV plus system, which adds up to 24bhp through a powertrain generator when pulling away or overtaking.
An electric-powered compressor works alongside the turbocharger. It builds boost pressure in just over a second when extra response is needed. Combined with the powertrain generator, it gives the Q9 rapid momentum from a standstill.
Quattro all-wheel drive comes as standard and is paired with an eight-speed tiptronic gearbox. Adaptive air suspension is fitted throughout the range. Ride height adjusts by up to 90 millimetres, and lowers by a further 62 millimetres for easier access. All-wheel steering turns the rear wheels by up to five degrees. This sharpens manoeuvring at low speed and improves stability at higher speeds.
Experience the Audi Q9 with Stratstone
The Q9 gives Audi a full-size flagship SUV for the first time in its history, and gives buyers proper three-row space with the technology and refinement the brand is known for.
Not trying to be an SUV for every occasion, it is designed primarily for households who have run out of space, but still want the comfort expected of an Audi. Two diesel outputs are available, and quattro all-wheel drive and adaptive air suspension are fitted throughout the range. Whichever configuration you choose, it will deliver the composure you expect.
If a full-size SUV with real flagship credentials is what you are after, the Q9 is definitely worth a closer look. To find out more or arrange a test drive, contact your nearest Stratstone Audi retailer today.
