Comparison: 2019 Audi Q5 vs 2019 BMW X3

Autos

The Audi Q5 leads the way for sales in the entry-level luxury SUV models with 11,952 units sold in 2018 in Canada. Behind it, three players compete hard for the number-one challenger spot. The Mercedes-Benz GLC comes in second with 8,982 units sold, just ahead of the Acura RDX with 8,890 and the BMW X3 with 8,296. Now let s see what makes these two German models so popular.

2019 Audi Q5

Photo: Audi

The Q5 leads the pack in a segment full of very, very strong contenders.  Even at the end of its career, before the changes made in 2018, the Q5 was maintaining a comfortable cushion with 2,000 more units sold than its closest rival, the GLC. The SUV’s discreet and efficient style is part of that success. Many people appreciate this non-ostentatious luxury and Audi understands this because each new version brings more quality but still maintains a non-intrusive style.

The popularity of the Q5 is also due to the driving pleasure it delivers, as well as the overall fit and finish of the product. The SUV is not without its flaws, but overall it deserves its reputation.

The Q5 is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo engine developing 252 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. Power delivery is provided by a 7-speed automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel-drive system. The SQ5 offers a 3.0L turbo V6 delivering 354 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. 

Photo: Audi

The basic Komfort version features a standard rear-view camera and electric safety locks for the rear doors, while the mid-range Progressiv adds the Audi Connect navigation and infotainment suite. 

All Q5 trims include 18-inch wheels, adaptive damping suspension, bi-xenon headlamps, 3-zone automatic climate control, 7.0-inch multimedia display, heated front seats, cellular interface, electric tailgate, satellite radio, auto-dimming rearview mirror and tire pressure monitoring system.

Photo: Audi

The Progressiv adds 19-inch wheels and tires, 8.3-inch centre screen, heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, keyless entry, hands-free tailgate, front and rear parking sensors, Fold-away auto-dimming exterior mirrors, driver s seat memory, colour 7.0-inch driver information display and garage door opener. 

Finally, the Technik version adds blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, panoramic camera, heated/cooled cup holders, a group of configurable gauges for the virtual cockpit, LED headlamps with automatic high beams, enhanced audio system, interior lighting with custom colours, automatic high beams and heated rear seats.

Photo: Audi

Options include ventilated sport front seats in the Progressiv and Technik models, which can also be dressed in an S-line package with larger wheels and special interior and exterior finishes. Only Technik models can be equipped with active safety features thanks to an advanced driver assistance group that includes adaptive cruise, lane assist, automatic emergency braking and traffic congestion control functions.

Of all the models in this segment, the Q5 is the most enjoyable model to drive. It offers the best balance between comfort, handling and uncompromising road handling. Quattro transmission performance is flawless with very strong brakes. Few vehicles offer such an exceptional driving experience.

2019 BMW X3

Photo: BMW

For 2019, the X3 enters the second year of its third generation without major changes, so it comes in the same xDrive30i and M40i models. The xDrive30i uses a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo engine developing 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The M40i changes to a 3.0L turbo 6-cylinder making 355 hp and 365 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive 4WD system.

The xDrive30i is economical and comfortable, while the M40i has its focus firmly on performance. The latter comes standard with an M Sport package including sport front seats, upgraded brakes, driver-adjustable suspension and sport exhaust.