The first photos of the production Audi Q9

Photographs reveal a prototype of the potential Audi Q9 SUV, indicating potential competition for the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS. Rumors surrounding the Q9 have been circulating for some time, and recent trademark filings by Audi seem to support these speculations. Jeff Mannering, an executive at Audi Australia, also hinted at the possibility of the Q9 in a recent interview with Car Sales, published on January 9th. Sources claim that Audi dealerships in the US have been informed of the arrival of a large-sized SUV around 2025, suggesting that the Q9 could debut as a 2026 model.

The photographed prototype features split headlights and a similar grille to recent Audi prototypes, such as the upcoming Q5 and the new electric vehicle, the Q6 E-Tron. Although the interior is not clearly visible, a three-row configuration with seven seats is expected.

The open grille and visible exhaust tip suggest an internal combustion hybrid powertrain. This consistency with Audi’s naming strategy, where electric vehicles adopt even numbers while others retain odd numbers, strengthens the likelihood of the Q9 being a hybrid.

By 2026, Audi plans to become exclusively electric, gradually phasing out internal combustion engines. Sources also mention Audi’s expansion into other segments, with a possible release of a rugged SUV to compete with the Land Rover Defender and the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Additionally, the brand may explore the minivan market with an electric model based on the 2022 Urbansphere concept, initially designed for China and surpassing the current Q7 by 17 inches.

With information from Motor Authority.