Compare the 2026 BMW X3 to the Audi Q5
2026 BMW X3 vs. 2026 Audi Q5: Which Compact Luxury SUV Best Suits You?
German engineering has produced some of the best luxury vehicles on the road, and the BMW X3 is a prime example. This compact luxury SUV is the Ultimate Driving Machine, with agile handling and a spacious, attractive interior. The Audi Q5 is also a refined German-built luxury SUV, but it's not quite as athletic or well-rounded as the X3. At Automaster BMW in Shelburne, VT, we're pleased to provide you with the following comparison to help you decide for yourself between these two luxury crossovers.
| Features | BMW X3 | Audi Q5 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Power | 255 hp @ 4,700 rpm | 268 hp @ 5,000 rpm |
| Engine Torque | 295 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm | 295 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm |
| Engine Displacement | 2.0 l | 2.0 l |
| Engine Configuration | inline 4 | inline 4 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.2 gal. | 17.2 gal. |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Length | 187.2 in. | 185.7 in. |
BMW X3 vs. Audi Q5
Performance
Acceleration
You'll want a quick SUV for easier passing on the highways near Plattsburgh, NY. The BMW X3 comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. However, X3 M50 models have a 393-horsepower six-cylinder engine. With this engine, combined with the SUV's light-weight body, it can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
The Audi Q5's base engine generates 268 horsepower, but its SQ5 performance model only makes 362 horsepower. It takes 4.6 seconds for the SQ5 to get from 0 to 60 mph.
Handling
The BMW X3 has precise steering and firm braking for sporty handling on curvy roads in Burlington. An available M Sport package adds a sport-tuned suspension for even crisper handling around corners.
The Audi Q5 has weighty steering and strong brakes, but it's not as lively around turns as the X3.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is always a concern due to frequently fluctuating gas prices. South Burlington drivers will appreciate that the BMW X3 achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway when properly equipped.
The Audi Q5 only manages to earn 21 mpg in the city, 29 mpg on the highway with its most efficient powertrain setup.
Design
Exterior Design
Exterior styling is subjective, but many enthusiasts in Stowe like the BMW X3's iconic double-kidney grille and sharply sculpted headlamps.
The Audi Q5 has a more conservative look, with a more conventional honeycomb grille and thinner headlights.
Interior
If you frequently take weekend trips from Montpelier, you'll need room to stow your luggage or sports gear. The BMW X3 has over 31 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat. Fold the back seat down and you have more than 67 cubic feet of room for your gear.
The Audi Q5 has less storage space. It only has 27.6 cubic feet of room behind the rear seats and 56.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the back seats folded.
Technology
Infotainment
A good infotainment system keeps you entertained and informed while you're commuting from Shelburne to Burlington. The BMW X3 comes standard with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen that are loaded with features and a cinch to see and use while you're driving.
The Audi Q5 has an 11.9-inch digital gauge cluster and a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Safety
The BMW X3 helps protect you and your family with five standard driver assistance features. Its blind-spot intervention technology automatically steers the X3 back into its lane if you try to change lanes while a car is in your blind spot.
The Audi Q5 also has five standard driver aids. However, blind-spot intervention is not available.
Test Drive a 2026 BMW X3 at Automaster BMW
Ready to buy or lease a new BMW X3? Make the short journey from Stowe, VT to Automaster BMW and check out our new inventory in person. The expert team at our dealership will answer your questions and help you find the X3 model that best suits your lifestyle and tastes. To expedite the process and ensure availability, contact us to pre-arrange a test drive today.
Request a Test Drive in the BMW X3
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The Automaster BMW
3328 Shelburne Rd.
Shelburne, VT 05482
- Sales: 802-985-8411
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BMW X3