The 2027 Audi Q9 flagship features cupholders spacious enough for a Stanley and a sound system that makes your seat vibrate.

      Joel Feder

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      Audi's management is acutely aware of recent mistakes and is eager to swiftly address issues based on global feedback at all levels. The initial move in this response? Introducing the new Q9 SUV to fill a family-sized void in their lineup.

      On Monday, the interior of the 2027 Audi Q9 three-row crossover SUV was unveiled, showcasing high-quality materials, generously sized cup holders, and what can only be described as highly sophisticated technology, along with seating for the entire family. The Q9 is set to be revealed on July 28 and is expected to arrive in the U.S. by the end of the year. It will compete with the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class and the BMW X7, the former of which has recently been updated and the latter of which is nearing a redesign similar to that of the BMW 7-Series.

      While the exterior design hasn't been disclosed yet, it's clear that the Q9 is substantial in size. Long, wide, and tall, it is set to become the largest production Audi to date and should stack up well against the GLS and X7.

      All four doors can be opened electronically by pulling a genuine external door handle. The driver’s door can be programmed to close when the brake pedal is pressed, when the driver’s seat belt is secured, or any door can be electronically opened or closed via a button on the touchscreen, although it requires three taps to access, and the button must be held until the door is fully opened or shut. Additionally, each door is equipped with sensors to prevent them from opening into obstacles. Safety is a priority!

      Inside the Q9, there is a sense of returning to form for Audi. Glossy piano black plastic is virtually non-existent (thank goodness!). The trim on the center console boasts components ranging from open-pore wood to carbon fiber weave, all of which look and feel luxurious. Most plastics are matte to minimize fingerprints, reminiscent of earlier designs. Stitched leather adorns the dashboard, complemented by wool-like cloth trim on the lower dashboard to discreetly hide inset speakers for the 4D surround-sound system. A strip of ambient lighting runs along the base of the windshield, changing colors to communicate various situations. For example, it flashes red if automatic emergency braking activates, and it turns green on the side with the activated turn signal, directing the driver’s gaze away from the gauge cluster and toward the road. It can even sync with the beat of the music, for those who enjoy that feature.

      The triple-screen setup integrates a digital gauge cluster with a touchscreen tilted slightly toward the driver, all under a single curved piece of glass reminiscent of the A6 E-Tron. Accompanying this is a standard passenger touchscreen display offering YouTube, web browsing, and video watching capabilities, as well as Bluetooth headphone pairing. A physical volume knob is located on the center console, alongside a limited number of key function buttons that are all part of one piece of plastic. Other controls, including climate settings, vent adjustments, and infotainment functions are all managed via the touchscreen. Two cooled wireless smartphone chargers in the front of the center console come with MagSafe compatibility and a power output of up to 100 watts, along with two USB-C ports. Notably, the front cup holders, which feature a flip cover, are designed for American-sized cups, accommodating a Stanley cup for those who need it. The rear-seat cup holders can also fit Stanley mugs, which my daughter will surely appreciate (feel my pain, please).

      Audi’s ingenious, highly sophisticated, yet practical, single stalk that combines the gear selector, turn signal, and wiper controls is present in the Q9 (and it’s still impressive).

      Families will appreciate that the rear doors open a full 90 degrees. The Q9 will be available in both six- and seven-seat configurations, capable of fitting up to three car seats across when equipped with the second-row bench seat, thanks to three tether anchor points. The outboard second-row seats can slide and tilt forward, allowing access to the third row without needing to remove unoccupied car seats. The third row is spacious enough for an adult, with plenty of room for my 5-foot-10 frame to sit comfortably behind a 6-foot-5 adult in the second row (albeit with my knees up). While final measurements aren’t available yet, the cargo space behind the third row is practical, and with that row folded down, the area for cargo (or activities) appears substantial.

      The optional Bang & Olufsen 4D surround-sound system boasts 24 channels, 22 speakers, and two actuators in the front seats, which provide motion and vibrations to create a physical sensation of the music.

      All occupants of the Q9 will enjoy a fantastic view of the sky, as the majority of the roof is made of