The 2026 Audi Q9 recently surfaced on public roads, but the automaker’s already begun testing a hotter version.
A full-size 2026 Audi SQ9 prototype has been spotted with slight, but significant, tweaks to the smoother model.
Slated to be a full-size, three-row crossover SUV intended to rival the BMW AMG. X7. .
The heavily camouflaged frame looks almost the same as the Q9 prototype seen above. Although the early SQ9 prototypes share their front trim with the Q9, we can see two intercoolers, one on each side of the lower grille. These, along with the more pipes, would possibly serve to cool a twin-turbo V8 recently discovered in other Audi S and RS models, such as the SQ8 crossover. In the SQ8, this engine produces 500 hp.
On the back. The quad exhaust tips of the Audi logo are visual as on the S models. Production models will feature chrome finishes.
Like other Audi crossover SUVs that carry the S badge, the SQ9 will most likely run on air suspension with adaptive dampers. The prototypes were supplied with Model S-specific wheels that felt slightly larger than the wheels of the Q9 prototype.
There’s still no transparent view of the interior, but a symbol shows that there will be a giant touchscreen in the sprint augmented through what is likely an organization of virtual gauges. The SQ9’s idler doesn’t appear to be round, but a flat rear. or a more circular shape similar to that of the electric Q4 E-Tron.
It is conceivable that the Q9 line will be the last new gasoline-powered Audi model. The automaker has already committed to selling exclusively electric cars and has hinted that its new gasoline-powered style could be launched as early as 2026.