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2026 Audi Q5 vs. 2026 BMW X3 Comparison

See how the 2026 Audi Q5 and 2026 BMW X3 performed in our rigorous, independent road tests. Our experts evaluate hundreds of vehicles annually at our 327-acre testing facility, putting each model through over 50 data-driven assessments—including braking, emergency handling, fuel economy, and cabin noise. Review our side-by-side comparison of tested specifications, real-world fuel efficiency, and crash-test safety ratings to see which is the best for reliability, performance, and more.

Comparing 2 Models

Q5 2026

Luxury compact SUVs

2026 Audi Q5

$52,800 - $66,800

All Test Results

X3 2026

Luxury compact SUVs

2026 BMW X3

$51,300 - $66,500

All Test Results
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About
About
The latest Q5 retains many of the aspects that made the previous version a strong competitor within the compact luxury SUV class, including agile handling, comfortable seats, and a quiet, well-appointed cabin. But we don't love the new Q5's stiffer r...
 
The fourth-generation X3 took an evolutionary step forward for 2025, gaining power, fuel economy, and equipment. It remains one of the best compact luxury SUVs, thanks to its spirited and fuel-efficient powertrain, nimble handling, and comfortable se...
Highs
Highs
Green Checkmark Icon Sharp handling
Green Checkmark Icon Quiet interior
Green Checkmark Icon Comfortable seats
Green Checkmark Icon High-quality cabin
 
Green Checkmark Icon Smooth engine and transmission
Green Checkmark Icon Quick acceleration
Green Checkmark Icon Good fuel economy
Green Checkmark Icon Agile handling
Green Checkmark Icon Short stopping distances
Green Checkmark Icon Quiet cabin
Green Checkmark Icon Comfortable front seats
Green Checkmark Icon Fit and finish
Lows
Lows
Red 'X' Icon Annoying low-speed power delays
Red 'X' Icon Requires premium fuel
Red 'X' Icon Overly firm ride
Red 'X' Icon Unintuitive controls have a steep learning curve
Red 'X' Icon Some driving position quirks
 
Red 'X' Icon Unintuitive controls
Red 'X' Icon Center dashboard air vents are too low
Road Test Score
Road Test Score
/ 100
 
/ 100
Reliability
Reliability
/ 100
 
/ 100
Owner Satisfaction
Owner Satisfaction
/ 100
 
/ 100

Overview

Body Styles
Body Styles

4-door hatchback, 4-door SUV

 

4-door SUV

Trim Lines
Trim Lines

SQ5, Premium Plus, Premium, Prestige

 

30 xDrive, M50 xDrive

Base Price Range
Base Price Range

$52,800 - $66,800

 

$51,300 - $66,500

Drive Wheels
Drive Wheels

AWD

 

AWD

Seating Capacity
Seating Capacity

2 Front, 3 Rear

 

2 Front, 3 Rear

Engines/Motors
Engines/Motors

3-liter V6 turbo (362 hp); 2-liter 4 turbo (268 hp)

 

2-liter 4 turbo (255 hp); 3-liter 6 turbo (393 hp)

Transmissions Available
Transmissions Available

7-speed Sequential

 

8-speed Automatic

Performance

Comfort & Convenience

Fuel Economy & Range

Vehicle Safety

Specification

Warranty

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Auto Test Center

Precision testing comes standard at our 327-acre auto test center.

TESTING LIKE NOBODY ELSE

50+

tests are conducted on every car we buy.

PERFORMANCE TESTING

6

miles of track for testing acceleration, ride, handling, braking, and advanced driver assist systems.

TIRE TESTING

400

tires tested a year for all-weather grip and rolling resistance.