Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.Only a Matter of TimeThe Audi Q9 is no secret. Several spy shots of the large SUV have been published, and the company said it's coming any time this year. After seeing its rivals own the full-size, three-row luxury crossover space for years, the folks from Ingolstadt reckon it's their turn to make a big impression on that segment.Its main rivals are none other than the BMW X7, which is due for a redesign, and the Mercedes-Benz GLS that was just given a facelift. Audi is determined to give its rivals a good scare, and has released first images of the Q9 for us to see.AudiCorporate LookOf course, Audi isn't showing all of its cards just yet. The exterior is still wrapped in camouflage, but we see more details of the SUV this time around. The Q9 follows the brand's corporate look, so there's a sizable grille up front, high-set daytime running lights, and bumper-mounted headlights. We can expect the next-generation Q7 to adapt a similar look.AdvertisementAdvertisementWe're glad to report that the Q9 comes with regular door handles, likely to make it easier and less costly for Audi to sell in China. As for the size, it looks massive even in photos, making the current Q7 look even smaller than appears. A tall glasshouse is typical in this class, and the flared fenders aim to give it more presence.As for the rear, the tailgate is as wide as it gets with a low liftover for easy loading. The tail lights are then inspired by the A6 Avant, also employing a split design. Audi calls the SUV a prototype for now, this it's safe to say we're looking at the version that we'll be seeing in showrooms later this year.HondaHopping InThere are two ways to open the doors, either manually or letting the motors do the work to swing it all the way by simply tugging the handle. Once on board, the now-familiar layout has been supersized, and, for once, it's nice to see a cabin not plastered with piano black trims. Of course, we'll know the full scope of its interior features once Audi publishes the rest of it.The Q9 shown in the preview comes with the optional captain's chairs. It is, of course, electrically-adjustable, and a floor-mounted center console takes the place of the middle seat. Those seats are also heated and ventilated with the option of adding a massage function. For those who plan to use this crossover as a family car, the good news is, second and third-row seats come with ISOFIX mounting points.AudiOther HighlightsThere's no mention if that massive panoramic sunroof is standard or not, but it does come with tech that allows it to be fully opaque, translucent, or totally transparent. Audi says it can block out a good amount of light with its glass roof, negating the need for a motorized cover. It automatically reverts to an opaque setting when parked.AdvertisementAdvertisementOf course, there's no shortage of ambient lighting in the Q9, and the 4D audio experience by Bang and Olufsen has been updated for a more immersive experience. As mentioned above, the doors are motorized, although another neat trick it can do is the ability to open all doors at once via the key fob or an app. We're also glad to see the appearance of more buttons inside.It won't be long before Audi unveils the Q9. The company says all will be revealed by summer this year. This will be a hugely important vehicle for the brand, especially for the North American market. U.S sales have tumbled, and 2026 has been difficult so far, and threatening tariffs won't make this model's debut any easier. Still, it should help bring in more customers into showrooms.AudiAdvertisementAdvertisementAudiView the 5 images of this gallery on the original articleThis story was originally published by Autoblog on May 12, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
