Which interior and tech features stand out?

When you step inside either the Audi Q5 or BMW X3, you’re greeted by a world of luxury and technology. Both interiors are crafted with top-notch materials and offer a premium feel. But which one truly excels in tech and comfort?

Is the Audi Q5’s tech user-friendly?

The Audi Q5’s interior isn’t just about looking good—it’s also about being smart. Its digital driver’s display allows for personalisation, offering a customisable driving experience. However, some users find the latest infotainment system a bit less intuitive than previous models, which had a handy control dial near the seats.

 

The interior of an Audi Q5. The car has a black leather interior, a large center screen with a navigation map displayed, a three-spoke steering wheel with the Audi logo, and a gear selector. The car appears to be parked in a scenic countryside location.Audi Q5

What does the BMW X3 offer?

In contrast, the BMW X3 delivers a tech-savvy interior, with features like gesture control that allow you to change audio settings with a flick of your hand. It’s a bit gimmicky, but undeniably fun. The infotainment system can be operated via touchscreen or rotary dial, offering flexibility and ease of use, especially when driving.

 

The interior of a BMW X3 SUV. The car features a beige leather interior, a large center screen, a three-spoke steering wheel with the BMW logo, and a gear selector. The car appears to be parked in a desert landscape.BMW X3

What level of practicality can you expect?

The practicality game is strong with both the Audi Q5 and BMW X3. With generous space for passengers and luggage, these SUVs are well-suited for family life. But what sets them apart in terms of practicality?

Boot space and seating flexibility

Both the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 come with a boot space of 550 litres, which drops in the plug-in hybrid versions due to the battery pack. The Audi Q5 offers a nifty ‘Rear Bench Seat Plus’ option that lets you slide the back seats forward or recline them for more comfort or extra boot space. Meanwhile, the X3 provides slightly larger total space when seats are folded, reaching 1,600 litres compared to Q5’s 1,550 litres.

The trunk of a blue Audi Q5 or Q5 Sportback. The trunk is empty and features a flat floor, side pockets, and a cargo net. The rear seats appear to be folded down to maximize cargo space.Audi Q5

The trunk of a BMW X4 with the rear seats folded down. The trunk is carpeted and features a flat floor. The rear seats are upholstered in red leather and have headrests. There is a small amount of luggage visible in the trunk.BMW X3

Are there any special features?

The Q5’s rear bench feature is perfect for those extra shopping bags or holiday luggage, while the X3’s gesture control offers a unique, albeit niche, touch. Both SUVs cater to a variety of needs, making them excellent choices for versatile lifestyles.

Which one drives better?

While both the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 offer exhilarating driving experiences, they cater to different tastes. The Q5 leans towards luxury, while the X3 embraces sportiness. Let’s dissect their driving dynamics further.

How does the Audi Q5 perform?

The Audi Q5 is all about comfort and reassurance. It’s designed for a smooth ride, making it a fantastic choice for those who prioritise a relaxed driving style. Its range of engines, from petrol to diesel and plug-in hybrid options, deliver effortless acceleration, ensuring a composed drive.

A blue Audi Q5 driving on a winding road in the countryside. The car is facing towards the viewer and has a license plate that reads "KY23 PNZ."Audi Q5

Is the BMW X3 more engaging?

For those who crave a connection with the road, the BMW X3 delivers. It offers a slightly firmer ride than the Q5 but compensates with sharper handling and a more responsive feel. Whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the motorway, the X3 rewards enthusiasts with its agility.

Check out our guide to the best SUVs for more options.

A blue BMW X3 driving on a winding road in a mountainous landscape. The car is facing towards the viewer and has a license plate that reads "YJ67 ZSG."BMW X3

Which is more cost-effective to own?

Fuel Economy Comparison

The Audi Q5’s petrol engines deliver up to 33.6mpg, while diesel variants reach 44.8mpg. The plug-in hybrid version boasts an impressive 188.3mpg, though this figure is dependent on battery charge. Conversely, the BMW X3 offers slightly better fuel economy, with petrol engines achieving up to 37.2mpg and diesels up to 48.7mpg. In the long run, this means lower fuel costs with the X3.

A blue Audi Q5 driving on a wet road in the countryside. The car is facing away from the viewer and has a license plate that reads "KY23 PNZ."BMW X3

Maintenance and Insurance

Both vehicles are premium brands, translating to higher purchase and maintenance costs. However, the BMW X3’s slightly better fuel efficiency might tip the scales in its favour for cost-conscious drivers. For more tips on buying a used car, check out our guide.

A blue BMW X3 driving on a winding road in the countryside. The car is facing away from the viewer and has a license plate that reads "YG20 DZK."BMW X3

How do safety and reliability compare?

Safety and reliability are paramount when choosing a family SUV. Both the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 excel in these areas, but let’s explore the nuances.

Safety Ratings and Features

Both models achieved five-star ratings from Euro NCAP in 2017. They come equipped with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. These features ensure peace of mind for you and your passengers, making either choice a safe bet.

The rear seats of a blue Audi Q5 or Q5 Sportback. The seats are upholstered in black leather with a diamond pattern and have headrests. The windows show a scenic countryside landscape.Audi Q5

Reliability and Warranty

While premium brands like Audi and BMW might not top reliability charts, both the Q5 and X3 have performed well. Audi’s warranty is three years or 60,000 miles, whereas BMW offers an unlimited mileage warranty for three years. For those prioritising mileage coverage, BMW’s offering is more generous.

The rear seats of a BMW X3. The seats are upholstered in beige leather and have headrests. The windows show a scenic countryside landscape.BMW X3

What are the dimensions of each SUV?

Curious about the nitty-gritty dimensions? Here’s a comparison of the Audi Q5 and BMW X3.

  • Audi Q5: Length 4,682mm, Width 2,140mm (including mirrors), Height 1,662mm, Boot space 465-550 litres.
  • BMW X3: Length 4,708mm, Width 2,138mm, Height 1,676mm, Boot space 450-550 litres.

Verdict Time

After a deep dive into both SUVs, which one emerges victorious? While both the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 offer luxury, comfort, and style, the BMW X3 edges ahead with its engaging drive, better fuel economy, and superior infotainment system. It’s a well-rounded choice that combines practicality, efficiency, and fun.

However, if ultimate comfort and a luxurious ride are your top priorities, the Audi Q5 might be more up your alley. Both vehicles are worthy contenders, and your decision ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.

A gray BMW X3 parked on a road with a mountain landscape in the background. The car has a license plate that reads "YK67 AFY."BMW X3

What’s Next?

Now that you’ve got the insights from our comprehensive comparison, you might be ready to take the plunge. If you’re considering a used SUV, explore our buying guides for more tips and tricks at MOTORS.

The choice between the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 is undoubtedly a tough one. But armed with the right information, you’re now ready to make a decision that suits your lifestyle and budget.

Want to learn more? Check out our youtube video on the 2024 BMW X3 below.