New Audi Q9 is MORE expensive and LESS powerful than the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS

The new range-topping Audi Q9 SUV goes on sale in the UK with prices from £103,900 and 295bhp of diesel power.

It’s been less than a month since the Audi Q9 SUV was revealed as Audi’s new flagship model, and now it goes on sale in the UK with a single powertrain option and just two trim options: Edition 1 and Vorsprung.

Disappointingly, the only engine option for UK buyers is a 3.0-litre V6 Mild Hybrid Diesel good for 295bhp, driving all four wheels through an eight-speed tiptronic ‘box. Other markets enjoy a wider choice, including a 600bhp V8.

The Q9 comes as a seven-seater as standard, with all seats electrically adjustable and heated, with a six-seat option available on Vorsprung models for an extra £5k, which comes with ventilation and massage for the seats and a heated leather centre console.

Edition 1 models come with 22″ Audi Sport alloys, S Line styling, Black Styling Package, Matrix LED headlights, Adaptive Air Suspension, AWS, Nappa leather sports seats, Panoramic roof with switchable transparency, B&O 3D Sound and a mass of safety nannies to irritate. Q9 Edition 1 models cost from £103,900.

Opt for the Q9 Vorsprung, and you get 23″ alloys, Digital Matrix LED headlights, Digital OLED tail lights, B&O 4D Sound, automatic doors and Park Assist Pro. Q9 Vorsprung models cost from £113,250.

Audi UK director José Miguel Aparicio said:

The Audi Q9 is a compelling new proof point of Audi’s leadership in the premium automotive market. As our first full-size SUV flagship, it completes the Audi SUV portfolio and introduces a new benchmark for luxury, innovation and comfort.

Audi is clearly taking aim at the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS with the Q9, although it’s more expensive than both – the X7 and GLS both start at (just) under £100k – and down on power too (the X7 and GLS have more than 350bhp).