Audi has finally entered the full-size SUV market with the debut of the 2027 Q9, a vehicle that fills the gap left by the absence of a new A8 sedan. The German automaker has spent more time than its rivals to reach this point, but the Q9 is now the brand’s new flagship. It is a direct competitor to the Cadillac Escalade, a segment that Audi has largely ignored in the United States.
Dimensions for the SUV measure 209 inches (5,309 mm) long, 79.2 inches (2,012 mm) wide, and 71.4 inches (1,814 mm) tall. While the car is certainly not small, the American Escalade exceeds the Q9 in overall size. The 123.5-inch wheelbase (3,137 mm) is 5.6 inches (142 mm) longer than the Q7’s, which provides significantly more space for the third row. Designers gave the body panels more curves and subtle creases compared to older Audis, giving the vehicle a distinct station wagon aesthetic that feels less imposing than the Mercedes-Benz GLS or BMW X7.
It’s easy to mistake the Q9 for a wagon, but that illusion comes from its large wheels. The larger wheels make the car appear smaller and closer, a quirk that design critics have dubbed the “Father Dougal principle.” This styling choice reflects a broader shift in the company’s aesthetic direction, moving away from the sharper, more angular lines of previous models.
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Like the Q7 and the new A5 and Q5, the Q9 rides on Volkswagen Group’s new Premium Platform Combustion, or PPC, architecture. At launch, the standard model will be available with one of Audi’s 2.9-liter V6 engines. For those seeking more performance, the SQ9 will use the twin-turbo V8 found in the RS6 and RS7 models. Unlike the regular Q9, the SQ9 features an all-wheel-drive system that is rear-biased for daily driving. This setup prioritizes handling and responsiveness over maximum traction, a characteristic that aligns with Audi’s performance heritage.
The Q9 is designed primarily for the European market, where the third row is sized for small children or occasional use. This European focus means the vehicle prioritizes maneuverability and fuel efficiency within city limits, despite its large exterior footprint. The platform architecture allows for this balance, offering a foundation that supports both the standard and performance variants of the vehicle.