Huge Audi Q9 SUV to launch next year

The new Audi Q9 luxury SUV has been locked in for a 2026 launch, with the large three-row SUV set to arrive as the German marque’s new flagship. The next-generation Q7 SUV is set to launch around the same time.

The 2026 Audi Q9 SUV’s arrival has been locked in for 2026, where the hi-tech luxury three-row SUV is set to arrive alongside the latest third-generation Q7 SUV.

The Q9 is yet to be officially unveiled, however, Audi’s development boss Geoffrey Bouquot, confirmed the new model’s launch date in an interview with Automobilwoche, revealing both it and the new Q7 would be underpinned by the third-generation Q5 SUV’s Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture.

That platform is shared between a host of Volkswagen Group products, is expected to underpin the next Porsche Macan in 2028 and can accommodate a range of powertrain options, including petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid. Audi is yet to confirm what will power the Q9.

And, until the covers come off the Q9 – which is expected to measure in at more than 5.2-metres in length – these AI-generated images are all we have to imagine just how the large barge could shape up.

Either way, expect loads of hi-tech gadgets and safety equipment, along with lavish seating for seven, like the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS it’s set to rival.

The 2026 Audi Q9 SUV hasn’t been officially confirmed for Australia, however, Audi Australia director Jeff Mannering has previously expressed interest in the flagship model, telling carsales in 2024 the brand wouldn’t be opposed to entering the upper-large SUV segment.

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