Key Takeaways
- Audi Q9 could challenge BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS with greater luxury focus and longer wheelbase in 2025.
- Design of current Audi Q9 test mule similar to Q7, with longer bodywork to disguise its underpinnings.
- Possibility of Audi Q9 being electric or hybrid still up in the air.
As far back as 2021, spy photographers have been capturing test mules of what was believed to be the new Audi Q9, although no official confirmation of such a vehicle had been made. The following year, rumors began to circulate that the Q9 SUV would arrive in 2025, and now, for the first time, we’re seeing the large SUV with bodywork resembling something you might be able to buy some day.
Unfortunately, the design we’re looking at means nothing for the eventual production model; this is basically just an Audi Q7 with stretched bodywork. According to our spies, the vehicle appears to be roughly 4-6 inches longer than a Q7.
What’s The Point Of The Audi Q9?
Ingolstadt already produces a luxurious three-row SUV in the form of the Audi Q7, while the Q8 exists as a slightly sportier alternative with coupe-like styling. That begs the question of where the Q9 would fit into the range, but the answer is not all that surprising.
Related
2025 Audi RS5 Avant Spied With Hips To Make The Old RS4 Proud
The name may change, but the idea of a fast wagon with a menacing footprint will live on.
In an effort to steal sales from the likes of the BMW X7 and the Mercedes-Benz GLS, the Q9 is likely to adopt an even greater luxury focus. That explains the longer wheelbase, evidenced in these spy shots by the extension at the B-pillar. Everything else we can see is inconsequential as the production Q9 will have unique styling.
When Is The Audi Q9 Coming?
As compelling as these images are, Audi has not officially confirmed the existence of the Q9, although some executives have hinted at it. We also don’t know if it will be all-electric or feature a combustion engine in combination with a hybrid battery, but it would be unwise for a mainstream brand like Audi to completely eschew electrification for a new model line.
If it is electric, the Q9 may arrive on the same platform as the Porsche K1, a future range-topping luxury electric SUV with more space and style than performance and precision. Unfortunately, this theory seems unlikely since the K1 is only expected to be shown in concept form in 2026, which means it’s a long way from being fully developed.
We’ll bring you more updates as the true destiny of the Q9 comes to light.
