Audi is preparing to expand its premium SUV range in India with the introduction of the new Q9, the German luxury carmaker's largest and new flagship SUV. Audi has confirmed that the Q9 will be launched in India in 2027, giving the brand a new offering in the full-size luxury three-row SUV segment.
According to Audi India's product roadmap, the Q9 is expected to arrive in the second half of 2027. The model will follow the new-generation Q3 and A5 as part of Audi's planned product expansion in India. Importantly, the Q9 is expected to be locally assembled at the Skoda Auto Volkswagen Group plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, rather than being brought into India as a completely built-up import.
The Q9 represents a new step in Audi's SUV portfolio. It sits above the Q7 and Q8 and becomes the brand's flagship SUV. Audi has also used the Q9 name for the first time, placing the model at the top of its SUV range.
The new SUV is designed as a large family-oriented luxury vehicle with three rows of seating. Audi's official information states that the Q9 can be configured with six or seven seats, depending on the chosen specification. The cabin has been developed with a focus on passenger space, comfort and premium features, making the SUV suitable for long-distance travel as well as family use.
In terms of dimensions, the Q9 is substantially larger than the Q7. The SUV measures 5,309mm in length and has a 3,138mm wheelbase. It is therefore not simply a longer version of the Q7, but a larger vehicle positioned in a higher segment of the luxury SUV market.
The exterior design follows Audi's latest large-SUV design language. The Q9 gets a large front grille, prominent wheel arches and a broad, upright stance. Its overall proportions are intended to give it a substantial road presence while retaining the design elements associated with Audi's current SUV family.
Inside, the Q9 focuses heavily on passenger comfort and technology. Audi says the SUV offers individual electrically adjustable second-row seats, electrically operated doors and a large panoramic roof. The cabin can accommodate up to seven occupants, with Audi also offering a six-seat configuration with a more spacious second-row arrangement in certain markets.
One of the key features of the Q9 is its focus on technology. Audi has equipped the model with advanced driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise assist plus with hands-free driving capability in markets where the relevant technology is approved. The SUV also features advanced lighting technology and a large panoramic sunroof with switchable transparency.
Audi has positioned the Q9 as a premium long-distance vehicle, and the interior is designed around a business-class style of comfort. The large cabin, multiple seating configurations and technology package are expected to be important aspects of the India-bound model.
The powertrain details for India have not been officially announced by Audi in a detailed India-specific specification sheet. However, Autocar India reports that the India-spec Q9 is expected to use a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine producing 367hp and 550Nm of torque. The engine is expected to be paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system. These should therefore be treated as expected India specifications until Audi releases the final India-specification details.
Internationally, the Q9 is being offered with different powertrain options depending on the market. Audi has also indicated that an SQ9 performance-oriented version will be available in selected markets. However, there is currently no confirmation that the SQ9 will be introduced in India alongside the regular Q9.
Another important point for Indian buyers is the expected manufacturing strategy. Audi India has confirmed that the Q9, along with the new Q3 and A5, will be locally assembled at the Skoda Auto Volkswagen Group plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Local assembly could help Audi position the Q9 differently from a fully imported model, although the final Indian price has not yet been officially announced.
Current industry estimates place the expected India price of the Audi Q9 in the Rs 1.40 crore to Rs 1.50 crore range, ex-showroom. This is an estimate rather than an official Audi India price, and the final figure will depend on the Indian specification, equipment, taxes and positioning at the time of launch.
The Q9 will enter a segment that includes large luxury SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GLS and BMW X7. The Audi model's larger dimensions, three-row layout and premium cabin are intended to give the brand a product positioned above its existing Q7 in the SUV range. The Q9's arrival will therefore expand Audi's presence in the full-size luxury SUV category in India.
The model is also significant because Audi describes it as its first large full-size SUV. The company says the Q9 was developed with a focus on space, comfort, technology and driving dynamics. The first international deliveries are scheduled from the fourth quarter of 2026, while the Indian market is expected to receive the SUV in 2027.
For Indian customers, the biggest highlight will be the combination of three-row practicality and flagship-level luxury. The six- and seven-seat configurations give Audi flexibility to offer different cabin layouts, while the large wheelbase should provide additional space for passengers.
The Q9 will also strengthen Audi India's upcoming product portfolio. The new Q3 is scheduled to lead the company's next wave of launches, followed by the A5 and then the Q9 in the second half of 2027. Audi has described this as a major product rollout for the Indian market.
At present, Audi has confirmed the Q9's arrival in India and its broad 2027 timeline, but the exact launch date, final India-specific features, variant structure and official price are still awaited. Buyers should therefore treat current price and specification reports as estimates until Audi India announces the final details.
The upcoming Audi Q9 is expected to become the brand's flagship SUV in India when it arrives. With its large dimensions, three-row cabin, premium interior technology and expected local assembly, the model will add a new full-size option to Audi's Indian lineup. More details about the India-spec version are likely to be announced closer to its launch in 2027.
