2027 Audi SQ9

Overview

If you need to get your heirs to school at autobahn speeds, the 2027 Audi SQ9 might be the speedy family transport you're looking for. A twin-turbocharged V-8 engine powers this full-size SUV, and it makes a whopping 591 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard, but the SQ9 is meant for the streets rather than the trails.

A racy appearance inside and out differentiates the SQ9 from its more luxury-oriented Q9 sibling; so does its price tag, which starts well north of $100,000 and goes up from there with options. All three rows of seats appear to be relatively accommodating, although third-row legroom is at a premium with the second-row seats in their rearmost position. Nonetheless, the SQ9 joins rivals such as the BMW X7 M60i and the Mercedes-AMG GLS63 in the large, luxury SUV race.

Expert Tip: If you like the idea of a V-8–powered performance luxury SUV but the SQ9 is too big for your garage, consider the mid-size SQ7. It gets the same 591-hp V-8 but comes in a tidier mid-size package.

What's New for 2027?

The SQ9 joins the standard Q9 as a new addition to Audi's lineup for 2027.

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Pricing and Which One to BuyEngine, Transmission, and Performance Engine: 591-hp twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8Transmission: 8-speed automaticDrivetrain: all-wheel drive

Under the hood of the SQ9 is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine that makes 591 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are both standard, as is an electronically controlled locking rear differential and a staggered tire fitment on either 22- or 23-inch wheels. An air-spring suspension system can be adjusted for ride height and roll stiffness while a rear-wheel-steering system can turn the rear wheels up to five degrees.

0–60-MPH TimesClaimed 60-mph Time: 3.8 seconds

In Comparison: The BMW X7 M60i managed to hit 60 mph at our test track in the same 3.8 seconds that Audi is quoting for the SQ9, which should make for an interesting acceleration shootout once we get a chance to test it for ourselves.

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Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

First Row: The SQ9 wears a similar interior design as the Q9, albeit with elements that project a racier ambiance. For example, sport seats and carbon-fiber interior trim are exclusive to the SQ9. Leather upholstery is standard and can be ordered in an array of colors, including red, black, silver, and Baikal Blue. A five-zone automatic climate control system is standard.

Second Row: While a three-passenger bench for the second row is standard, a pair of captain's chairs can be swapped in as an option. The second-row seats feature power adjustments and the outboard seats are heated. Passenger space appears to be plenty roomy enough for adult riders.

Third Row: A pair of third-row seats comes standard on all SQ9 models. Legroom appears limited with the second-row chairs pushed all the way back, but if those in the middle row can compromise by sliding their seats forward, the third row is likely to be more livable.

Cargo Capacity: A grocery store pickup should fit behind the SQ9's third row, but road trip adventures requiring more luggage and cargo will likely necessitate stowing those seats, which will limit seating capacity. When we get an SQ9 to our office for testing, we'll see how many carry-on suitcases can fit inside.

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Infotainment and Connectivity Infotainment: 14.5-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch passenger display Connectivity: Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android AutoAudio System: 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo (standard), 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo (optional)

Like the Q9, the SQ9's dashboard is covered in screens. There's a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen in the center, an 11.9-inch digital gauge display, and a 12.3-inch passenger touchscreen. All models come with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an on-board Wi-Fi hotspot, and in-dash navigation. All SQ9s ship with a Bang & Olufsen stereo. The base setup features 16 speakers while the upgraded version comes with 22.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

A host of driver-assistance features come standard, including lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. A trailer maneuvering assist feature is optional and may come in handy if you plan to tow.

Standard Safety Features: automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise controlOptional Safety Features: trailer maneuvering assist

For information about the SQ9's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Audi's standard warranty package is nothing special, but it does include three years of complimentary scheduled maintenance.

Limited Warranty: four years or 50,000 milesPowertrain Warranty: four years or 50,000 milesComplimentary Maintenance: three years or 30,000 milesAs more information becomes available, we'll update this story with more details about:Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGC/D Test Results and Specs

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