2027 Audi SQ9 outguns the AMG GLS 63 for less money
The 2027 Audi SQ9 arrives as Audi's sportiest full-size luxury SUV, packing a U.S.-exclusive 591-hp twin-turbo V8 that hits 60 mph in 3.8 seconds—the quickest three-row luxury SUV in its class—while starting at $118,000, significantly undercutting the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 with comparable performance.
Key Takeaways
- The Audi SQ9's 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 makes 591 hp and 590 lb-ft, matching outputs once reserved for the RS Q8.
- The SQ9 reaches 60 mph in 3.8 seconds; the regular Q9 V6 does it in 4.9 seconds.
- Pricing starts at $87,700 for the Q9 and $118,000 for the SQ9, undercutting a base Mercedes GLS and the AMG GLS 63.
- At 209 inches long with a 123.5-inch wheelbase, it is Audi's largest model ever and longer than key rivals.
- U.S. dealerships are due to receive the Q9 and SQ9 in the fourth quarter of 2026.
How does the Audi SQ9 stack up on power and price?
According to CarBuzz, Audi finally enters the full-size luxury SUV fight with the 2027 Q9 and sportier SQ9. The SQ9 uses a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque—the same outputs previously reserved for the RS Q8.
The regular Q9 gets a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 rated at 429 hp and 442 lb-ft. Both pair with a ZF eight-speed automatic and quattro all-wheel drive, though the SQ9's setup is rear-biased with an electronically controlled locking rear differential.
Audi CEO Gernot Döllner called the V8 the most emotional powertrain available globally and noted it is exclusive to the U.S. version. That U.S.-only strategy helps explain why the SQ9 can challenge the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 on acceleration while starting at a much lower MSRP.
What else stands out on Audi's biggest SUV ever?
The Q9 measures 209 inches long on a 123.5-inch wheelbase, making it the biggest Audi ever built. Auto Bild coverage also frames it as longer than the Mercedes GLS and BMW X7, sharpening its three-row flagship brief for American buyers.
Lighting is a major talking point: Digital Matrix LED headlights with full adaptive-beam capability for the U.S., the industry's first curved OLED taillights with 512 segments, and turn-signal projections onto the road. OLED "communication light" displays can warn of hazards or an opening door.
Inside, buyers get six or seven seats, a standard panoramic sunroof with electronic dimming, dual cooled mag-lock wireless chargers, and a 22-speaker system with vibrating front seats and headrest speakers. Cargo space is 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 43.8–50 cubic feet behind the second; towing is rated at up to 7,700 lbs.
When does the Audi Q9 reach U.S. showrooms?
CarBuzz reports the 2027 Audi Q9 and SQ9 arrive at dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2026. Automobilwoche notes New York as the world-premiere stage for what it calls Audi's biggest U.S. hope, underscoring how central this model is to the brand's American push.
Base pricing is $87,700 before a $1,295 destination fee for the Q9, with the SQ9 from $118,000. That puts the entry model below a base Mercedes GLS and the SQ9 well below an AMG GLS 63 despite comparable performance claims, while also outgunning the BMW X7 M60i for similar money.
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