Spotted: Audi Q9 Prototype Reveals More Details of Audi’s Upcoming SUV

Last year, we shared insights throughout a series called Audi’s Future Models Roadmap, which pointed to the development of a large, internal combustion luxury SUV—the Audi Q9. This forthcoming model is expected to ride on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), signaling Audi’s intent to compete head-to-head with the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS in the full-size SUV segment.

Since then, we’ve seen the high-performance SQ9 variant undergoing early testing during the winter season and at the Nürburgring. But just recently, a new prototype—what appears to be the standard Audi Q9—has been spotted with even more production-ready features.

Among the standout visual cues:

• A grille with 16 vertical bars, giving it a bold, upscale presence
• A lower bumper that now closely resembles what we expect to see in final production
• A rear bumper that reveals more of its true design
• Four tailpipes replaced by two square exhaust outlets, suggesting this is not the sportier SQ9 but rather the base Q9 model

The Q9 is expected to offer a range of powertrains, including diesel, gasoline, and hybrid options.

Market launch is currently projected for early 2027 at the soonest, with primary focus on the U.S., Saudi Arabia, and China. European availability remains uncertain, but with BMW already developing a second generation of the X7, it would make sense for Audi to bring the Q9 to Europe as well.

Stay tuned for more updates as development continues.