Inner calm

Electrically powered doors, variable seating for optimum versatility and a level of finish that elevates automotive interiors to a new high – the all-new Audi Q9 takes the brand’s reputation for interior execution to a new level. While the exterior of the brand’s new flagship luxury SUV, the Q9, remains camouflaged for now, the new take on a large, absolutely luxurious interior can now be appreciated.

Even at a glance it is obvious that the emphasis is on space, with clean uncluttered design adding to the very real space on offer for up to seven occupants with the optional middle row made up of two electrically adjustable individual seats with active ventilation in the centre panels of both the cushion and the backrest. Indeed all of the seating in the Q9 feature power adjustment, while the likes of ventilation and massage functions in the front sport seats plus are a given.

The rear seats can be automatically dropped flat to enhance the already impressive storage area, while a new aluminium rail system integrated into the sides of the boot allows users to secure cargo in three dimensions with sliding hooks and adjustable anchors, leaving the floor space free for larger luggage. In addition, each Q9 incudes a roof rack to go with the standard roof rails as standard.

“With the Q9, ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ is increasingly defined by the in-car experience,” says Audi CEO Gernot Döllner.

“Cars have long been much more than just a means of transportation – they are mobile living spaces for our customers. Premium materials, variable seating with individual electric seats in the second row, and automatic doors underscore the commitment to quality in our new, large full-size SUV.”

The Audi Q9’s interior represents a technical triumph, offering up all of the features that make for absolute automotive luxury, whether as a large family SUV or a vehicle dedicated to providing the highest levels of travel for business.

For the first time in an Audi, all doors can be operated electrically and thanks to their wide opening angle, getting in and out of the vehicle is easier and more comfortable, particularly for those loading larger objects like strollers or multiple shopping bags. The enormous 1.5 metre panoramic sunroof which is a standard feature, opens to provide a truly ‘open air’ driving experience, or can be tailored to deliver only the desired amount of light into the cabin – blocking 99.5 percent of UV radiation when opaque is selected.

Indeed there are nine individual segments in the laminated safety glass to opaque, all of which can be selected by the push of a button. Or, depending on the model, some 84 LEDs bath the roof in one of 30 colours to match the selected ambient lighting.

Lighting plays an important role in the new Q9, with contour lighting in the dashboard and doors as well as indirect lighting beneath the Audi MMI panoramic display and in the centre console. The dynamic interaction light (IAL) in the ambient light package plus is a continuous LED light strip that spans the full width of the interior and Audi optimally combines the interaction light with the updated Bang & Olufsen premium sound system with 4D sound.  In this instance, the IAL uses its ‘experiences’ feature to sync with the rhythm of the music, creating an immersive experience by matching the colour scheme to the track’s cover art, building on the previous 3D sound system with headrest speakers that enable personal phone calls, navigation prompts, and surround sound without acoustic distractions for other passengers.

The new interior design also features a redesigned centre console which provides two wireless charging pads compliant with the Qi2.2 standard and USB-C charging ports delivering up to 100 watts – the wireless dual charger enables fast charging of two smartphones simultaneously.

Materials too have been selected to optimise the feeling of comfort and luxury, with premium upholstery from wool such as alpaca fibre, Dinamica microfibre leather and leatherette blends, as well as fine Nappa leather all contributing to the sophisticated character of the Q9. Then there are new colours on offer like tamarind brown and stone beige, while the decorative elements finished in the likes of fine grain ash natural, silk beige; lime structure natural, or carbon fibre weave with basalt grey accents. The use of textured materials is significant throughout, with fewer glossy surfaces to reduce the prevalence of fingerprints and deliver a more a premium aesthetic.

While familiar in many respects, the all-new Audi Q9’s interior nevertheless represents an evolution of interior design and execution. In practice it will translate into a very real elevation of the passenger experience and build on the brand’s already enviable reputation for producing outstanding automotive interiors. The full vehicle will makes its international debut internationally in two months, when it will assume its position at the pinnacle of the brand’s large, luxurious SUV lineup.