Audi’s full-size SUV has been in talks for years but somehow, the Ingolstadt company hasn’t come up with such a vehicle so far. This could finally change in the next year, as the all-new SUV has been spotted on the road. At this point, we are still waiting for the official confirmation but it looks like the new model could arrive already in the next year, as the 2023 Audi Q9.
Even though there aren’t many details about the new full-size SUV, we pretty much know what to expect from it. Of course, this particularly refers to the platform and overall design, which would have a lot of things in common with the existing models like Q7 and Q8. We also know what to expect regarding the powertrain, though there is always room for some novelties, especially in terms of electrification.
Keep in mind that the officials are still quiet about the 2023 Audi Q9 and take the following paragraphs with a reserve.
2023 Audi Q9 Design
As we’ve just mentioned, we know what to expect regarding base design characteristics. This particularly refers to the platform. Of course, we are talking about the familiar MLB architecture, which would probably bring further enhancements regarding suspension and chassis setup, in order to improve the ride quality even more.
Still, the biggest difference compared to the existing model will be in terms of size. Audi hasn’t been producing full-size SUVs so far and the 2023 Audi Q9 will be the first model to compete with rivals like BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS. Therefore, we count on a pretty long wheelbase, probably around 123 inches, which would provide plenty of interior room, including a spacious and comfortable third row.
Exterior
Of course, another thing that comes to mind is the styling. We all know that Audi is one of the most conservative brands in the automotive industry regarding aesthetics. Therefore, the front end should look very similar the Q8. We count on the same headlights shape, massive grille etc. Of course, there will be room for exclusive styling details as well. The rest of the body should feature a typical wagon-like layout, though we count on a more muscular design approach compared to the Q7, for example.
Interior
When it comes to interior design, we presume that a lot of inspiration will be taken from the current lineup, especially in terms of the dashboard design. Audi knows how to make great cabins, as it usually combines traditional aesthetical solutions with the excellent build quality. As we are talking about the new flagship model, we expect nothing but top-notch materials. Furthermore, we could on lots of advanced tech features. We presume that the center stack would come equipped with a dual-screen setup, while the digital instrument cluster will be part of the standard equipment for sure.
The 2023 Audi Q9 wouldn’t be the only three-row SUV in the lineup. The Q7 already comes with three-row but it isn’t particularly generous in this aspect. On the other hand, the Q9 would be adult-friendly in the third row, while the first two rows would be super comfortable and spacious. Of course, we also expect to see a more generous cargo area.
2023 Audi Q9 Engines
When it comes to the powertrain, the offer would probably start with a familiar 3.0-liter turbocharged V6. This engine puts out around 335 horsepower and comes coupled with 8-speed automatic transmission.
We count on V8 engines as well. Of course, we are talking about the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, which would come in two variants. The first one would be reserved for the SQ9 model, which would feature a max output of 500 horsepower. On the other hand, the range-topping RS Q9 would feature a max output of 591 horsepower. These engines also come with 8-speed automatic transmission.
Finally, there is a chance to see some sort of electrification, probably a hybrid powertrain. We presume more will be known in the following months.
2023 Audi Q9 Release Date and Price
Although the officials are still quiet, rumors suggest that the 2023 Audi Q9 could arrive already in the next year. We estimate that the starting price would go somewhere between 75.000 and 80.000 dollars.