Audi Q9's Three Rows Of Luxury SUV Ready To Compete With BMW X7 & Mercedes GLS Next Year

Prototype Audi Q9. (Photo: Instagram/@wilcoblok)

JAKARTA Mercedes-Benz GLS and BMW X7 are the rulers of the global market in the full-size luxury or luxury three-line SUV segment in recent years. Meanwhile, in the United States, Cadillac is currently also controlling the luxury three-line SUV market with its flagship model, Cadillac Escalade.

Now, Audi is finally ready to enter the full-sized luxury SUV fight arena with three rows of passengers.

After the market has been dominated by compatriots for a long time, this German manufacturer is rumored to be launching a new Audi Q9 model. The model, which will be Audi's first three-line SUV, is scheduled to debut in 2026.

This news was confirmed directly by the Head of Audi Development, Geoffrey Bouquot, in an interview with German media, Automobilwoche which was forwarded by Car and Driver, quoted Tuesday, October 1.

The launch of Audi Q9 is a strategic step to fill the biggest void in Audi's SUV product line. So far, Audi does not yet have a model that can directly challenge giants in this very profitable segment, such as BMW X7, Mercedes-Benz GLS, and Lexus LX. With Q9, Audi will have a flagship model that can compete equally.

Bouquot confirmed that Q9, along with the next generation of the Q7 SUV, will be introduced around 2026.

Although official details about the specifications have not yet been released, the existence of Q9 has begun to appear in cyberspace. Photos of camouflage-covered prototypes are seen being tested on the legendary N\"urburgring Nordschleife trajectory, hinting at Audi's new design language, especially on the grille and front light layout.

The new Q9 and Q7 will reportedly use the new platform architecture of Audi, namely the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC).

The name PPC indicates that this new flagship motor will continue to rely on internal combustion engines (ICE). However, in line with industrial trends, Q9 will most likely also be equipped with hybrid technology for optimal efficiency and performance.

With a luxurious combination of cabin space, a wide three-line capacity, and high performance that characterizes Audi, Q9 is expected to be one of the most important models for the manufacturer in the second half of the decade.