BMW X3 vs Audi Q5

BMW X3 vs Audi Q5 Dimensions

You can tell just from looking at the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 that they bring plenty of style to the Alabama roadways. So, how do their dimensions measure up?

Your next SUV should have a commanding presence on the highway, while still being sleek enough to zip adeptly through traffic. The Audi Q5 stands at 84.3 inches wide, while the BMW X3 is more compact with a width of 74.4 inches. For this reason, the more petite BMW X3 may be more desirable when parallel parking or navigating busy roads.

It's important to note that, despite its smaller frame, the BMW X3 still offers a maximum of 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded flat. Even though it has a bulkier build, the Audi Q5 falls short with only 53.5 cubic feet of space, so it may not be able to fit all your weekend getaway essentials or children's sporting equipment. 

However, you'll get a similar amount of space inside the cabin for passengers no matter which SUV you drive. The BMW X3 and Audi Q5 both have two rows of seats that can accommodate five passengers in total, including the driver.

Related reading: BMW X5 vs Audi Q5

In-Cabin Technology

The spacious cabins of the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 are both homey, with in-cabin technologies that act as a personal entertainment system. For starters, they both come standard with Bluetooth® wireless technologies that allow you to wirelessly stream audio from your device through your vehicle's speakers.

Bluetooth® can also give you ability to take hands-free phone calls while you drive so that your hands can stay safely at ten-and-two.

If you want more accessibility, plug your phone into the USB port in the center stack. This will give you access to some of your favorite smartphone features through Apple CarPlay®. Apps you can use on-the-go include navigation, internet radio streaming, audio books, podcasts, navigation and more. These features are accessible through the touchscreen display in the center stack.

The BMW X3 has a 10.25-inch touchscreen while the one in the Audi Q5 is a bit smaller, measuring in at 10.1 inches.

Safety Features in the BMW X3 and Audi Q5

When you're cruising through Alabama in your luxury SUV, you want to know that you have the features in place to keep you safe. With both the BMW X3 and Audi Q5, you'll have the benefit of high-tech safety systems designed to improve your awareness when out on the road. For example, they both come with systems like:

• Forward collision warning system
• A rearview camera

The Forward collision warning system is a useful tool that can alert you to potential collisions up ahead. It's something that's available in both the BMW and Audi and can even use automatic emergency braking to bring you to a stop, if necessary, to try to avoid an impact.

Both luxury vehicles also help you park with ease thanks to assistance from their available rear-view cameras. These systems turn the touchscreen display in the center stack into a video feed of the area directly behind your vehicle while in reverse.

The BMW X3 has an additional feature called Fatigue and Focus Alert that can help you stay aware when out on the road. This feature monitors for behaviors that indicate drowsy or distracted driving. If detected, it'll issue a suggestion to take a break from behind the wheel.

The Audi doesn't have a similar feature, so you may be less aware of when you're too drowsy to drive.

Related reading: BMW X3 vs Mercedes-Benz GLA

BMW X3 vs Audi Q5: Engine Showdown

When most drivers are looking for a luxury SUV, a powerful engine is high on their list of demands. How else are you going to get that high-energy thrill that you crave? That's why we love that the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 both come standard with a 2.0L turbocharged I-4 engine that generates more than 240 horsepower.

This is plenty of energy to get you going in the morning on your way to the office. If you want a little bit more, then you may want to check out the M Series from BMW. For the BMW X3, this gives you the following available powertrain:

• 3.0L BMW M TwinPower Turbo I-6
• 382 horsepower
• 0 to 60 MPG in 4.4 seconds

Unfortunately, the Audi Q5 doesn't have a performance-driven line like the BMW M Series, so it doesn't offer any additional engines with a bit more energy.

However, if fuel efficiency is your focus, then you'll be pleased with either SUV. Both the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 have an available hybrid powertrain that alternates between gas power and electric power to improve efficiency and cut down on your pit-stops at the pump. In fact, the BMW X3 hybrid can travel up to an EPA-estimated 340 miles on a single tank of gas.