- Flagship $194,990 Audi SUV to sit above Q7.
- New tech includes turn signals projected onto the road.
- First New Zealand deliveries in Februaru 2027.
The "most luxurious and technologically advanced" SUV ever offered by Audi, the supersized Q9, will also continue the brand's diesel-engine revival in New Zealand.
The $194,990 Q9 S line will arrive here from February 2027 with a 220kW/630Nm 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine. An eight-speed tiptronic transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive system are standard.
Q9 is the second key Audi SUV to be announced with diesel power. The A6-based Allroad crossover will have the same engine in a slightly less torquey state of tune (220kW/580Nm) when it also arrives early next year.
Both do have electrification, with a 48-volt mild hybrid system.
The Q9 is a big deal for Audi, and just plain big: at 5310mm in length, about 250mm longer than the existing Q7.
Audi says it "marks a new chapter for the four rings, bringing together sophisticated design, progressive technology and uncompromising comfort in a vehicle created for those who demand the very highest standards of luxury."
The Q9 also showcases some of the brand's most advanced lighting technology. Digital Matrix LED headlights feature up front. At the rear, Audi introduces its latest curved digital OLED technology: the panels create
a three-dimensional lighting signature.
With 512 individual segments, the system enables dynamic 3D lighting effects, complemented by semi-active and customisable digital light signatures.
The integrated communication light provides "intelligent, situation-specific visual cues to surrounding road users".
A second innovation, the advanced projection turn signal, also comes as standard. At night, the system projects a stylised turn signal onto the road surface..
"The Q9 represents the pinnacle of the Audi SUV range," says Greg Leet, general manager of Audi NZ. "It has been designed for customers who value exceptional comfort, advanced technology and effortless capability in equal measure. Every aspect of the vehicle has been carefully considered, from its striking design and commanding proportions through to the craftsmanship and innovation found throughout the cabin."
The S line exterior features 22-inch alloy wheels. Inside, there are sports seats in Nappa leather with front seat ventilation, heating, massage functionality with adjustable side bolsters and heated armrests and centre console.
The SUV comes standard with 7-seat configuration (6-seat optional). The second row of seating will come with heated seats and door arm rests. Five-zone climate control cover all three rows.
The panoramic glass roof includes switchable transparency. There are rear electric sun blinds and acoustic glazing.
