2025 Audi Q5 Vs. 2025 BMW X3: Which One Is Right For You?

2025 Audi Q5 Vs. 2025 BMW X3: Which One Is Right For You? originally appeared on Autoblog.

These SUVs’ lineups share four-cylinders, but distinguish themselves in more ways than one

The Audi Q5’s rivalry with BMW’s X3 is noteworthy, with each vehicle landing among the U.S.'s list of top-selling luxury compact SUVs. However, the competition is especially interesting for the 2025 production year, given that both models have entered a new generation. The 2025 X3 kicks off the nameplate’s fourth generation with a larger overall size, fresh mild hybrid technology, updated infotainment and driver-assist systems, and more. With the 2025 Q5’s third-generation redesign, Audi emphasizes an updated exterior—but you’ll find that, like the fourth-generation X3, it maintains certain touches drivers have become accustomed to. Keep reading to get a better understanding of how your experience with a 2025 X3 will differ from a 2025 Q5 to identify the best possible choice for you.

Exterior design spotlight

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Exterior design changes are more noticeable on the 2025 Q5 than on the X3. Still, the new Q5’s exterior isn’t radically different from its predecessor. Audi’s Q5 features more muscular lines than last year and updated lightning signatures, which include startup and shutdown animations on premium grades, and configurable OLED taillights in diamond patterns on the peak Prestige trim. The 2024 Q5’s front grille wasn’t small, and the 2025 version’s is even larger, but blends evenly with the two side air inlets’ increased size. Audi’s new Q5 also runs with the ever-popular trend of narrower headlights, and the door panels’ sculpting is more defined than last year. Standard wheels measure 18 inches, while optional sets are 19 and 20 inches.

The X3’s exterior adopts a far more contemporary look for its 2025 production year, which could be a good thing if you’re not attached to more conservative BMW styling. While the 2025 X3 is the same size as last year’s model, sharper body angles and a larger grille primarily define its curb presence, helping form a more athletic look that also functions as such with improved aerodynamics. The front grille is more squared than the Q5, but like its Audi competitor, its headlights and taillights are slimmer. Wheel sizes for the X3 range from 18 to 22 inches.

Inside the cabin: luxury, tech, and comfort

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Audi’s debut third-generation Q5 carries over last year’s emphasis on interior space and material quality while supplying a more contemporary feel. This modern ambiance mainly manifests through more touchscreens—a direction that some may feel overwhelmed by. The new BMW X3 similarly has a sprawling display, but the additional space on the passenger side without a touchscreen could feel less distracting for those who favor tactile controls. BMW applies this philosophy of simplicity throughout the rest of the X3’s cabin and adds touches like ambient lighting with unique shapes flanking the dashboard and center tray. Those prioritizing comfort and overall luxury might lean toward the new Q5’s standard leather, which is optional within the X3.

Fuel efficiency breakdown

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A base 2025 Audi Q5 will give you 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. Move into a 2025 Q5 S line, and you’ll receive 23/28 city/highway mpg. The 2025 Q5 TFSI quattro is good for 22/30 city/highway mpg, while a 2025 X3 xDrive30i offers 27/33 city/highway mpg, underscoring the benefits of this BMW’s new 48-volt mild hybrid system.

Understanding Audi Q5 and BMW X3 power

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While drivers gravitating toward compact SUVs like Audi’s Q5 and BMW’s X3 often prioritize plentiful tech and consistent comfort, power is also frequently a top consideration. The Audi Q5’s standard 2.0L TFSI four-cylinder engine produces 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque—a noticeable increase from last year’s base engine with 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. BMW’s 2025 X3 is in the same ballpark with its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine’s 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Those wanting higher-performing variants can select either the SQ5 with a 3.0-liter V6 engine delivering 362 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, or the M50 xDrive with an M TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine supplying 393 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque. Both the Q5 and X3 come standard with all-wheel drive.

Price overview (primary trims)

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BMW offers a more streamlined trim selection for the X3 with two main grades: the X3 30 xDrive and the X3 M50. The X3 30 xDrive starts at $50,900, and entering M territory with the X3 will have a base cost of $65,900. An entry-level Q5, Premium TFSI quattro S tronic, starts at $52,200, while the model’s peak trim, Prestige TFSI quattro S tronic, sells from $60,600. The Q5’s high-performance variant, the SQ5, starts at $64,800.

Final thoughts

While the 2025 BMW X3 leans sportier and the 2025 Audi Q5 gravitates toward balanced luxury and refinement, you can’t place these vehicles completely in two boxes. For example, the X3 has a rear cargo capacity of 31.5 cu ft behind the rear seats, 5.6 cu ft more than the Q5. You’ll also get far more horsepower in a 2025 Q5 than the 2024 model, which is complemented by a new 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Ultimately, the 2025 X3 may appeal more to those prioritizing characteristics like sharp steering, athletic styling, and a more futuristic feel, whereas the 2025 Q5 excels in comfort, refinement, and sophistication.

2025 Audi Q5 Vs. 2025 BMW X3: Which One Is Right For You? first appeared on Autoblog on Aug 16, 2025

This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Aug 16, 2025, where it first appeared.