I got an early look inside a camouflaged prototype of the all-new Audi Q9 — Audi’s upcoming full-size flagship SUV — ahead of its July 28 world premiere. The exterior stayed wrapped (Audi’s not ready to show you that yet), but the interior was fully on display. I was able to climb aboard and poke around its triple-screen dashboard, play with its power-opening doors and even charge my phone on its smartly designed wireless chargers. Here’s what stood out.
Triple-screen cockpit, curved where it counts
The Q9 runs a triple-screen digital cockpit — curved displays for the main driver and center infotainment screens, and a flat display for the passenger-side panel — similar to the AI-enhanced Virtual Cockpit setup we’ve seen previously on Audi’s A6 E-Tron and Q6 E-Tron models. I didn’t bring my tape measure, but expect an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster mated with a 14.5-inch main touchscreen, alongside an 11.9-inch passenger display. That third screen is likely an optional upgrade, but Audi hasn’t finalized specific packages for the SUV, so I expect to learn more later.
Materials throughout the cabin feel genuinely premium, with ambient lighting threaded through the doors, the dashboard, the first- and second-row bucket seats (which I don’t think I’ve ever seen before), and the standard panoramic glass roof. Some of this is standard equipment, some optional — again, we’ll get the full breakdown at launch.
The dashboard tech is similar to what we’ve seen on the Audi A6 E-Tron and Q6 E-Tron models — at least, as best I could tell during my preview.
Audi
The color-changing panoramic roof
The Q9 will come standard with a glass roof measuring approximately 16 square feet. Unlike many glass ceilings on vehicles lately, this one opens to let in fresh air.
The sunroof features a UV-blocking coating that should help keep the cabin cool (up to 99.5% of UV radiation blocked). It can also be had with optional polymer-dispersed liquid crystal technology, an electronically controlled sunshade that lets riders control the opacity of nine individual segments of the laminated glass, dimming any or all of them electronically. No physical shade necessary. When parked, the roof automatically goes opaque for maximum heat control. Start the car, and it returns to the last setting.
The standard glass roof can be upgraded with LED illumination and nine variable opacity panels.
Audi
An additional LED package adds 84 color-controlled lights to the perimeter of the glass roof, bathing the headliner in your choice of 30 colors synced with the cabin’s ambient lighting scheme. Paired with the interaction light strip spanning the full width of the windshield base — which can pulse in time with music and match album artwork colors, but also alert the driver of incoming calls or driver-assistance interventions — the Q9’s cabin lighting system can go from as dramatic as a nightclub to something more subdued at the touch of a button.
The wireless chargers deserve their own story
Two Qi 2.2-standard magnetic wireless charging pads sit in the center console, and they appear to be, without much exaggeration, the best-designed phone chargers I’ve encountered in any production vehicle. The Qi 2.2 standard means MagSafe-compatible magnets, so your phone stays put in corners instead of skating off the optimal charging position and into the passenger footwell.
The raised puck design accommodates modern, oversized camera bumps without the phone tipping awkwardly, and the elevated platform likely allows enough airflow underneath to keep temperatures in check during a long charge. Smart. USB-C Power Delivery ports deliver up to 100 watts if you prefer wired, and both wireless pads can fast-charge simultaneously.
It’s a small upgrade that probably won’t make or break your decision to buy, but the attention to this detail warms my little tech nerd heart.
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The standard magnetic charging pucks appear to solve almost all of my nitpicks with wireless phone charging in cars.
Audi
Power opening doors
For the first time on an Audi — but not in the industry — all four of the Q9’s doors can be opened electrically via push-button on the key fob, in the myAudi app or on the SUV’s touchscreen. Closing the driver’s door is equally intuitive: tap a button on the door panel, use the screen, or just step on the brake pedal. You can still grab the door and do it manually if you’re in a hurry — Audi hasn’t taken that away from you. You can also open all four doors at once (which feels more like a flex than a truly useful feature) or just the driver’s door by default.
A suite of surround sensors handles the paranoia-inducing part: proximity detection stops a swinging door before it tags the car next to you, a wall or a concrete bollard. The same sensor logic also watches for cyclists and pedestrians on the traffic side, helping prevent the kind of dooring incident that ends badly for everyone involved. Sensors on the door interior prevent it from closing on hands, limbs or distracted children.
Space and seating for 6 or 7
The Q9 seats six or seven across three rows, with the six-seat configuration swapping the second-row bench for two electrically adjustable captain’s chairs. Access to the third row is handled by an outer second-row seat that slides and tilts forward electrically — without folding flat — meaning an installed child seat can stay put while passengers climb through. The third-row seatbacks also fold individually via electric controls, freeing up space for cargo behind the SUV’s cavernous rear hatch (which also power opens and closes).
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Being able to pull up, open the door for a passenger and then close it behind them without leaving the driver’s seat is peak laziness — but also a huge flex.
Audi
New for this generation is an upgrade to optional Bang & Olufsen 4D Sound premium audio, which adds actuators to the front seats, allowing the driver and passenger to physically feel the bass on their backsides.
That’s everything Audi is letting me share for now about what will almost certainly be the largest Audi ever built for the US market. Full specs, powertrain details, and pricing will come with the world premiere on July 28. Based on what I’ve seen so far, the Q9’s interior and its nice mix of smart and flashy features make a strong first impression, and it looks ready to compete in the full-size luxury SUV segment.
Editors’ note: Travel costs related to parts of this story were covered by the manufacturer, which is common in the auto industry. The judgments and opinions of CNET’s staff are our own.
Major hotel companies have seen the value in investing in all-inclusive resorts in recent years, refreshing a formula that once felt tired. Thanks to their efforts, these properties routinely feature fresh, modern design, fantastic restaurants and curated experiences from snorkeling excursions to guided tours of historical sites, all for one reasonable price.
While Hilton’s all-inclusive portfolio is smaller than those of its competitors, its resorts pack a powerful, value-added punch. So, whether you’re a die-hard Hilton Honors member or a free agent just looking for a good deal, chances are there’s a Hilton all-inclusive for you.
Here are TPG’s favorite Hilton all-inclusive resorts to consider for your next warm-weather getaway.
Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe All-Inclusive Resort
CLINT HENDERSON/THE POINTS GUY
One of Hilton’s properties in Cancun, Mexico, this all-inclusive resort is a winner with its views and amazing restaurant lineup — as TPG found out when we checked in to the property. The Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe All-Inclusive Resort is just the place for you if you’re looking for a sunny getaway that earns top marks for service, has spacious rooms and suites, and keeps guests well fed.
All of the resort’s 540 guest rooms and suites come with balconies, and some suites even have private plunge pools. Modern furnishings with tropical flair, a complimentary minibar restocked daily, and either ocean or pool views are offered across all rooms and suites. If you’re in the mood to splurge, book an Enclave room or suite for a private lounge and pools, as well as special welcome amenities — some Enclave suites even feature direct beach access.
From the international breakfast buffet to poolside bites at Seasalt, the Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe keeps you well fed and hydrated all day long. We’re especially fond of Maxal, the resort’s Mexican fine dining restaurant. Of course, don’t forget to have fun in the sun: The resort features 13 swimming pools, kids and teens clubs, and a spa for those looking for a little more tranquility and rejuvenation in their getaway.
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When we sent a reviewer out a few months after opening back in 2021, one thing was immediately clear at the Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort: This place is wonderful for families.
About 20 minutes from Cancun’s Hotel Zone, this all-inclusive resort is in a shared complex with Hilton’s Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya. Both resorts occupy more than 100 acres, giving visitors plenty of room to stretch out while vacationing in Mexico.
At the 715-room Hilton Cancun, guests are treated to modern accommodations with at least 430 square feet of space and amenities like wardrobes and spacious bathrooms. Plus, most rooms and suites have balconies or patios. Book a swim-up room for an even more memorable experience so you don’t have to go far to cool off.
With 12 different restaurants, bars and specialty snack shops, nobody will go hungry. The Hilton Cancun’s restaurants have a much more upscale vibe than what you’d expect to find at an older-generation all-inclusive resort, with options ranging from an international buffet to a taqueria with a walk-up window to an open-flame grill serving sizzling steaks and seafood. Should you crave a sweet treat, there’s even an ice cream and churro shop.
During the day, visitors can swim in two infinity pools or post up at the beach, where activities like soccer and volleyball are scheduled at regular intervals. Families will particularly love that teens and kids clubs have various activities to entertain younger guests throughout the day. Hilton Cancun also specializes in immersive experiences like a Full Moon Dining Series, snorkeling excursions to Isla Mujeres and guided tours of Chichen Itza.
Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive Resort, Curio by Hilton
MANGROVE BEACH CORENDON CURUCAO ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT/FACEBOOK
The Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao begs travelers to grab a beach chair and enjoy the crystalline waters of the Caribbean. This resort, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, is another excellent family-friendly affair. It has a water park with a cobra-themed waterslide, four pristine swimming pools, a scuba diving center and sports like volleyball on the private stretch of sand. Kids can enjoy a playground and various daily activities specifically tailored to younger guests.
When we say this 399-room resort was built for families, we mean it, especially when you factor in that one of the room setups features a king-size bed plus two twins. But no matter what size of room you need, from a standard king to the two-bedroom presidential suite, expect modern decor with bold colors, private outdoor spaces and air conditioning.
There’s a restaurant to satisfy every palate, including Dushi Sushi Club, Ristorante Siciliano and Cor & Don’s BBQ Restaurant. Grab a drink at Pera Lobby Bar & Patisserie until midnight, while the Flamingo Beach Bar stays open 24-hours. Don’t miss The Don Cigar Lounge, where cigars and cognac are offered.
Guests can book a beachside massage in one of several thatched-roof cabanas to unwind. Bike rentals are also available for those who’d rather venture off-site to check out their surroundings.
Hilton’s first all-inclusive resort in Tulum, the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort has a wow factor, and our reviewer was impressed with the laid-back vibe, top-notch amenities and eco-sensitive design.
Across the resort’s 735 rooms and suites, all of which have balconies or patios, guests will find natural touches reflecting the property’s environment and modern amenities like high-definition TVs and ample storage space. For a more premium experience, reserve an Enclave-level room with access to a private lounge with food, drinks and a concierge; exclusive reservations and dining options; two private pool areas; and special fitness and wellness activities.
There are a whopping 13 bars and restaurants to enjoy, ranging from the chic La Luce Italian restaurant and must-have sushi at Noriku to an elegant steakhouse and a poolside seafood restaurant. If you prefer lots of options, be sure to visit Vela Norte, where a variety of international and Mexican dishes are available buffet-style.
Activities are seemingly endless at this Mexican resort. You can relax by the pools (one of which has a special splash zone for kids), hit up the neighboring Conrad’s spa for a treatment, take advantage of the kids and teens clubs, partake in a yoga class, learn about local art and so much more.
The Rif at Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive, Curio by Hilton
The Rif at Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao. FACEBOOK
If you feel like you’ve already read about Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive, Curio by Hilton above, you have. The Rif is that resort’s sister property, but with a more adult-leaning attitude (though technically it’s family-friendly).
The 384-room beachfront resort feels more intimate than some all-inclusives, with four restaurants and one centerpiece pool framed with palm trees and rows of sun beds. When The Rif guests want more dining options and family-friendly amenities such as a water park and playground, they only have to walk next door to the sister resort, Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao. Meanwhile, The Rif remains a haven of calm. The private beach, where guests sometimes swim with sea turtles, is a tropical paradise surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and lush mangrove forests. Thatched-roof cabanas and wood loungers with cushions are tastefully tropical. On-property restaurant options at The Rif include the Turkish restaurant Sofra and the colorful Mexican restaurant Maya, specializing in shareable small plates.
Many of The Rif’s bright, modern guest rooms have balconies or swim-up pool terraces. The resort is just over a mile from UNESCO-protected Willemstad, Curacao’s capital, known for pastel-colored colonial buildings and a 19th-century fort.
All 444 rooms and suites have balconies with ocean views. Each accommodation has a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, a minibar, a Nespresso machine and a smart TV to help you catch some z’s in comfort. Should you wish to upgrade your experience, book an Enclave room to receive a welcome amenity, nightly turndown service, a minibar with premium goodies, and access to the Enclave Lounge. Breakfast, coffee, snacks and happy hour beverages are served there daily.
Activities and amenities abound, but nothing tops sidling up to one of the two oceanfront infinity pools and grabbing an ice-cold margarita from the swim-up bar. The Eforea Spa deserves praise for its impressive treatment menu, plus rejuvenating hydrotherapy pools. For more action, participate in beach sports competitions or attend the resort’s nightly pool parties.
Make sure to bring a healthy appetite. Maxal is the place to go for authentic Mexican dishes, while La Luce will satisfy your craving for trattoria-style Italian fare. If you’d rather savor a mix of Southeast Asian flavors, check out Sunan. Not to be missed are the Mojito Lounge, where you can sip a cocktail from an indoor swing, and the chic Sky Bar.
Whether you’re traveling as a family or a couple without kids, know that there’s space for everyone. The resort has an adults-only wing and kids and teen clubs with age-appropriate activities.
DoubleTree by Hilton Bodrum Isil Club All-Inclusive Resort
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON BODRUM ISIL CLUB RESORT/FACEBOOK
Not all of Hilton’s all-inclusive resorts are in Mexico and the Caribbean; a handful can be found in Turkey, including in stylish, A-lister-approved Bodrum. One of the region’s best resorts is an all-inclusive take on the popular DoubleTree brand.
At the DoubleTree by Hilton Bodrum Isil Club All-Inclusive Resort, you can practice your backhand swing on a tennis court, play table tennis and lounge on the beach facing the Aegean Sea. Other highlights include a pool that looks out over turquoise waters and a kiddie pool with waterslides. There’s even an elevated spa with a full menu of treatments and a Turkish hammam.
When your stomach starts to grumble, you’ll have four dining outlets to choose from: an indoor-outdoor buffet open throughout the day, an Italian restaurant with beautiful outdoor seating, a seafood restaurant by the water, and a casual poolside spot for breakfast and snacks. The Sunset Lounge Bar is the most memorable of the three bars due to its location on a massive outdoor terrace.
Inside the 277 guest rooms and suites, you’ll find all you need for a restful night’s sleep. The predominantly white spaces come outfitted with minifridges, high-definition TVs, walk-in showers, and attached balconies or terraces, among other modern-day amenities.
Another great Turkish Hilton all-inclusive resort is on the Aegean in Mugla, east of Bodrum. The Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme Resort & Spa also sits at the mouth of the Dalaman River, so the views are stunning.
At this 538-room resort, accommodations come in all shapes and sizes, from entry-level king guest rooms with balconies to luxurious Lake House villas with swim-up pool access, living rooms and soaking tubs. If you need to accommodate a large group, the three-bedroom presidential suite sleeps 10 and comes with butler service and round-trip ground transportation from the airport, plus a kitchen and four bathrooms.
Getting bored at the Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme is practically impossible. There are 10 pools to explore, waterslides to whiz down, a private beach, a kids club and a sprawling 24-hour fitness center. Adrenaline junkies can try water sports like kiteboarding and windsurfing. If relaxation is what’s calling, skip the adventure and plan a day of pampering at the Elysion Spa.
Food and beverage options range from an Instagram-cool teppanyaki restaurant and a glitzy Italian eatery to a piano bar and an international buffet. If you feel sluggish, head to Citrus Coffee & Bar for an authentic Turkish coffee pick-me-up.
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