At launch, the Audi Q9 will be available with the choice of four (market-dependent) powertrain options, 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel (TDI), 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol (TSI), 3.0-litre V6 turbopetrol (TSI) and 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol.

Incorporating Audi’s MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) technology, the V6 TDI can be had in two states of tune, 220kW/630Nm and 180kW/500Nm, with an additional 18kW boost provided by the MHEV setup for short durations.

Power is delivered to the road via the German marque’s quattro all-wheel drivetrain, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Producing 315kW and 600Nm of torque, the 2.9-litre V6 TSI will be offered in the US. The Chinese market will receive the 3.0-litre V6 TSI, which develops 269kW.

Sited below the bonnet of the SQ9, the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol unit produces 435kW and 800Nm – good for a claimed 0-100km/h sprint time of 4.0 seconds.

The SQ9 features rear-biased all-wheel drive.

As standard, the Q9 is fitted with adaptive air suspension offering an adjustment range of 90mm between the lowest and highest settings. All-wheel steering is also present. The Q9’s braking setup comprises 400mm front/350mm rear ventilated discs. Alloy wheels measuring from 20 to 23 inches in size are on offer.

The Q9 measures 5 310mm in length, 2 210mm in width, and 1 810mm in height. Compared to the Q7, the Q9 is 238mm longer, 240mm wider, and 76 mm taller. The Q9’s wheelbase is 145 mm longer than the Q7’s, at 3 140 mm.

Stepping inside, the cabin plays host to 12.3-inch digital instrumentation, 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment, and a 12.3-inch front passenger display. A 1 360 W Bang & Olufsen audio system, replete with 4D sound, relays music through the cabin via 22 speakers, including headrest-mounted items for the driver and front passenger. According to Audi, the Q9’s sunroof is the largest it’s ever fitted to a vehicle.

As standard, the Q9 ships with seven seats. However, a six-seat layout, which features two captain’s chairs in the middle row, is available as an option.

Audi has yet to confirm local introduction for the Q9.

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