Audi’s 2027 Q9 SUV has become the center of attention for an unexpected reason: its door handles. In a rare move, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner revealed during a media preview in Munich, Germany that the automaker made a last-minute decision to revert to traditional door handles just 45 weeks before the vehicle’s official unveiling.
This reversal came after extensive testing revealed that the innovative door handle concept—which used a piezoelectric system—was less practical for everyday use than conventional handles. The change represents a significant shift in Audi’s design philosophy, prioritizing customer experience over cutting-edge innovation.
A bold decision with significant implications
Döllner explained that the decision to change the door handles was made during final validation test drives. ‘We had an innovative door handle concept on that car as well,’ he stated. ‘And then we had a final test drive and said, it’s innovative, but from a customer perspective, it’s worse than a conventional door handle.’
The reversal was no small feat. Normally, such a change would take two years to implement, but Audi’s body engineers managed to execute it in record time. ‘We were absolutely lucky to be able to change,’ Döllner admitted, highlighting the team’s ability to modify existing tooling and packaging to accommodate the new design.
The original plan had been to follow industry trends, such as the Volvo EX60‘s electronic door handles. However, Döllner clarified that while the Chinese market’s regulations on unconventional door handles were a factor, they were not the primary reason for the change. Instead, Audi focused on what would work best for its customers.
The innovative concept that didn’t make the cut
The abandoned door handle design featured a piezoelectric system that allowed the door to open with a light touch. Döllner described it as ‘a little wing on the door that worked with piezoelectric physical effect behind.’ While innovative, the system proved impractical for a full-size SUV, particularly in everyday usage scenarios.
Despite its removal from the Q9, Döllner hinted that the technology might still appear in a different Audi model within the European market. ‘We will have that solution on a European car in a different segment,’ he said, suggesting that the concept may find a better fit elsewhere in Audi’s lineup.
Customer-focused improvements beyond door handles
The Q9’s design overhaul didn’t stop at the door handles. Döllner emphasized that the vehicle was developed with extensive customer feedback in mind. ‘We reworked the center console, introduced cupholders that Stanley Cups are the right sizes,’ he said, addressing a common complaint about impractical cup holders in previous models.
Other improvements include rearranged smart door panels, optimized interior cooling, and a seating roof concept. These changes reflect Audi’s commitment to enhancing the S. market where the Q9 is intended to be a flagship model.
The Q9 is set to be Audi’s largest SUV to date, measuring 5.31 meters in length, 2.21 meters in width, and 1.81 meters in height, with a wheelbase of 3.14 meters. It will feature advanced technology, including automatic doors, adaptive cruise assist, and the largest panoramic sunroof ever installed in an Audi.
Production of the Q9 will begin in the fourth quarter of 2026, with deliveries expected to start in . The model will be available in both standard and high-performance SQ9 variants, catering to a wide range of customer preferences.
