Audi has one of the most impressive SUV lineups in the industry but the four-ring brand might soon introduce a new flagship model as the reports indicate. Following the recent induction of the coupe-like Q8 crossover SUV, the 2021 Audi Q9 might be the next model to join the range. Audi already registered the Q9 nameplate but hasn’t talked about the model and possible launch date. The prototype of the model hasn’t also been spotted to support claims about the model’s arrival so we must rely on the industry speculations.
The reported, all-new Audi Q9 should come with a more conventional shape than the Q8 model and with a more spacious cabin and cargo area. The model should use seven-seat configuration and lift the comfort and sophistication to the new level as the reports suggest.
The Q9 won’t be based on the all-new platform reports indicate and it should also adopt the brand’s current design language. The model will offer various powertrain solutions and a high-performance SQ9 version should also be in the offer.
With the Audi Q9 in the lineup, the Ingolstadt-based brand would offer an alternative to the full-size BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS.
2021 Audi Q9: Design
As the reports claim, Audi won’t build the 2021 Audi Q9 from the ground up. The model should arrive on the upgraded and stretched Volkswagen Group MLB platform. The modular and lightweight design of the platform provides many benefits compared to the previous designs allowing also implementation of the modern tech and powertrain solutions.
The full-size Audi Q9 should be similarly sized as the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS. The model should be about five inches longer than the Q8 running also on about five inches longer wheelbase which will open more room for the rear-seat passengers and cargo.
From the visual perspective, the flag-ship Q9 SUV should adopt the same styling language as the recently all-new Q8. The front of the model should adopt a larger, octagonal grille with both vertical and horizontal slats. The model would also use Audi’s full-laser headlights and taillights.
The body sculpting should be similar to the sporty Q8 but the full-size Q9 should have a bulkier rear end and conventional roofline.
Interior, Equipment:
The cabin of the reported 2021 Audi Q9 should provide plenty of room for the passengers and their cargo. The model will come with the seven-seat configuration and with about 100 cubic feet of the cargo room behind the front seats.
The dash should look similar to the brand’s latest models with the fully digital instrument cluster and large center display. The model will also use premium materials and comfort features from the start in addition to standard active safety tech.
Standard equipment will include leather upholstery, three-zone climate control, heated front seats, wireless Apple Car Play and Android Auto, navigation, a hands-free tailgate, and more. The model will also get an array of active safety systems by default.
2021 Audi Q9: Powertrains
The 2021 Audi Q9 should use the upgraded MLB platform and similar suspension geometry as the Audi Q8. The models should also share the same powertrain options in addition to the new electrified setup.
A 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 unit found under the hood of the Q7 and Q8 models should also found the way in the new Q9 model. The engine makes 335 hp and torque of 369 lb-ft and it is assisted by the 48-volt mild-hybrid systems in the Q8. Audi will pair this engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission. All models will be all-wheel-drive.
The Q9 should also get the SQ version as the reports claim. There shouldn’t again be surprises regarding the engine used in this version if it sees the light of the day. A 4.0-liter bi-turbo TFSI V-8 unit should provide more than 500 hp maybe around 600 hp.
The Q9 should also get the plug-in hybrid version sometime in the lifecycle and the all-electric variant could also join the range.
2021 Audi Q9: Release, Price
The 2021 Audi Q9 was reported to appear in late 2020. Audi hasn’t yet talked about the model’s arrival and the ongoing pandemic might also affect the model’s release date. The price of the model could have a starting point above $80,000.