Audi appears to be finally preparing a rival for the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class.
A prototype for an Audi full-size SUV, which may be called the Q9, has been spotted for the first time.
Rumors about a possible Q9 have been circulating for years and Audi has already trademarked the Q9 name. More recently, Audi Australia boss Jeff Mannering clearly hinted at the option of a Q9 in an interview with Car Sales published on January 9. A few years ago, U. S. Audi dealers were invited to take a look at theThe U. S. Department of Transportation (US) was also told they expected a full-size SUV around 2025, suggesting that the Q9 will most likely arrive as a 2026 model.
The prototype in our spy shots features the same split headlights and grille shape seen on recent Audi prototypes for upcoming SUVs such as the next-generation Q5 and new Q6 E-Tron electric vehicle.
2026 Audi Q9 spy shots – Photo credit: Baldauf
There’s no clear shot of the interior but inside there should be three rows supporting seven seats.
The open grille and visual exhaust tip imply that the prototype is supplied with an internal combustion engine, likely in a hybrid configuration. This would be compatible with Audi calling the vehicle Q9, as the automaker’s new naming strategy calls for EVs to use an even number. on your call and everything else to use a number.
Ultimately, Audi will move to exclusively promoting electric vehicles. The automaker has already hinted that it will launch its newest gasoline-powered model from 2026.
It’s possible that Audi will expand beyond the full-size SUV segment. Audi is rumored to be making plans to launch a rugged SUV to challenge the Land Rover Defender and Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Audi is also preparing to expand into the minivan segment with an electric vehicle based on the Urbansphere concept unveiled in 2022. The concept, designed with the Chinese market in mind, spanned 217 inches, 17 inches more than the existing Q7. Midsize SUV.