The Audi Q7 is no match for the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS? Regardless, the brand with the rings already has a larger model in its hat: the Audi Q9. The latter has just been “shot” in China. Discovery.
The BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS take the Audi Q7 high. Format of 5.15 m for the first, 5.25 m for the second, i.e. much larger templates than that of the Q7, which is content with 5.06 m. In order not to be left behind and to deprive themselves of a family clientele in need of seven places without giving up the use of the trunk, the manufacturer with the rings is already holding its parade. It will also have in its range, by 2023, a king size SUV: the Audi Q9. The latter has just been flushed out in China without any camouflage. We even have the different versions and finishes of the model available.
Here are already the different versions of the Audi Q9 range. The Chinese media are fond of all these details.
An Audi A1 chassis for the Q9?
Unlike the Q7, whose base is the MLB EVO technical platform shared with the Volkswagen Touareg, Porsche Cayenne, Bentley Bentayga and Lamborghini Urus, the Q9 is based on the MQB EVO. It is the one that already equips many models of the Volkswagen group, from the Polo to the Passat, passing at Audi by the A1, the A3 or the Q2 and Q3 SUVs. A very flexible base capable of making the splits between a city car and a mastodon such as the Atlas, the SUX XXL from Volkswagen. The latter has been sold since 2017 in North America, Russia, as well as in Asia under the name Teramont.
Q9: A real dragon!
Also, you will understand, Audi did not start from a blank sheet to design the Q9, but from an ultra-efficient chassis. On the other hand, this base closes the door to V6 or V8 engines and involves the use of four-cylinder 2.0 turbo in versions of 231 and 265 hp; blocks that can be hybridized at will. A 3.6 VR6 engine close to 300 hp, a symbol of power in China, is also possible. But it will not arrive in Europe. Note that the images illustrate the model destined for China with a chrome element symbolizing the tail of a dragon on the rear quarter pillar. You can also see larger blades of the Audi Q2, which sits at the other end of the Ingolstadt-based automaker’s SUV range.
TO READ. All new Audis until 2026
