The Audi Q9 Has An Interior Fit For A FlagshipAudiAmerican buyers seemingly can’t get enough of full-size SUVs. These three-row machines, particularly in the luxury segments, are massive money makers for Detroit’s Big Three. The Germans have been slowly supersizing their own lineups to tap into this demand, with models like the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class gaining sales traction in recent years. And after months of speculation, Audi is finally ready to give potential customers their first preview of the interior of the upcoming Q9 SUV.Ahead of the SUV’s official debut later this year, Audi invited Road & Track to peek around the new range-topper just outside of Munich. Slotted above the already-popular Q7, this particular SUV was clearly designed with space and comfort at the center of the project. The Q9 comes as standard in a seven-passenger configuration featuring a middle bench seat, though the camouflaged preview unit shown to the media was equipped with middle-row captain's chairs. The latter is surely the key to a truly luxurious experience, offering a large amount of space even for this six-foot-three-inch reporter.The experience with the Q9 really begins before you even sit inside however, as the SUV comes as standard with power front and rear doors operated via the MyAudi App or the key fob. This system automatically pops open the front and rear doors a full 90 degrees for easy ingress and egress; how many doors open at a given time is fully customizable, while a suite of sensors prevents any parking lot dings on the sheetmetal. (While it might seem a little gimmicky, I could see this being a helpful tool for growing families.) Because this car is eyeing the American market, it also features cup holders big enough for a Stanley mug (or a supersized Coca-Cola).AudiAudi hasn’t forgotten its front -eat customers in the pursuit of people-hauling. This prototype was outfitted with the Sport Plus seats, which come equipped with heating, ventilation, and massage functionality. The center console and dashboard are notably lacking in the glossy plastic department, instead favoring more natural and premium-looking materials. The seats and door cards feature a mixture of cloth, leather, and leatherette, which feels right at home for the luxurious aspirations of the Q9. The large panoramic sunroof is also a high point of the interior, with nine bespoke Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal segments that can be controlled individually. The roof also works in conjunction with all of the car’s interior LED lighting, matching your mood or music with a few clicks.AdvertisementAdvertisementSpeaking of music, the Q9 arrives with a 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system with a rather unique party piece. Each of the front seats has also been fitted with actuators that mimic the effect of big subwoofers, producing physical sensations tied to the music at all volumes. Having damaged my hearing with a bumping system in my younger years, it’s wonderful to get that sensation without a need for crazy decibels.We won't learn more details about this new flagship SUV until later this year, but I think there's plenty for Audi customers to get excited about. Given how well the Q5 and Q7 have done for Audi in the States thus far, a larger, more luxurious SUV seems like a simple, and smart, business decision.AudiYou Might Also LikeIf You Can Only Own One Car, Make It One of TheseThese Are the Most Popular Cars by State