Audi is finally bringing hands-free driving to its lineup, starting with the 2027 Q9.
The new adaptive driving assistant plus allows drivers to take their hands off the wheel on approved highways and Autobahn segments.
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The system launches in the United States, Canada, and Germany, with speeds up to 85 mph (137 km/h) or 130 km/h (81 mph), depending on the location.
It comes standard on the $93,300 Q9 Premium Plus trim.
A Return to Autonomous Driving
Audi was an early pioneer in autonomous driving, introducing a Level 3 system called AI Traffic Jam Pilot in 2017 on the A8.
However, the company abandoned that system a few years later and remained quiet on hands-free technology until now.
The new Level 2 system handles acceleration, braking, and steering.
It also includes an automated lane change function that activates when the driver taps the turn signal, moving the vehicle into the desired lane if it is safe.
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Despite the hands-free capability, Audi emphasizes that the driver remains responsible and must stay alert at all times.
A camera mounted on the steering column tracks eye position and head movements to ensure attention.
If the driver fails to respond to alerts, the vehicle will bring itself to a controlled stop.
The system uses a long-range front radar, side radar sensors, and a windshield-mounted camera.
GPS data helps identify approved road segments, and a notification appears on the digital instrument cluster when entering a compatible area.
Audi confirmed that the hands-free system will gradually expand to other markets and models.
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Given the similarities between the Q7 and Q9, it is likely that the smaller three-row crossover will offer the feature in the near future.
