@ Audi AG
@ Citroën / Stellantis Media
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Audi Q3 vs Citroen C5 Aircross – Which one offers the better deal?

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Audi Q3 or Citroen C5 Aircross fits your lifestyle better.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Audi Q3 vs. Citroën C5 Aircross: Battle of the Compact SUVs

In the increasingly competitive world of compact SUVs, the Audi Q3 and Citroën C5 Aircross stand out as strong contenders. Each offers a unique blend of style, performance, and innovation to cater to diverse customer needs. Let's delve into what makes these models stand apart from each other.

C5 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Performance and Powertrains

When it comes to performance, the 2024 Audi Q3 offers a versatile range of engines. With power outputs ranging from 150 HP to a robust 245 HP, this model caters to a variety of driving preferences. The Q3 provides both petrol and diesel options, with transmission choices including a manual gearbox and a dual-clutch automatic. This flexibility allows drivers to select a powertrain that best fits their lifestyle and driving conditions.

On the other hand, the Citroën C5 Aircross offers a more focused approach with an emphasis on efficiency and innovation. It provides hybrid options alongside traditional petrol and diesel engines. Notably, the plug-in hybrid variant offers a combined 224 HP and an impressive electric range of 58 kilometers, perfect for urban commutes. The C5 Aircross relies solely on automatic transmissions, ensuring a smooth and effortless driving experience.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency is crucial for today's eco-conscious consumers. The Audi Q3 achieves consumption rates between 5.5 to 8.5 L/100km, depending on the engine choice. While these are respectable figures for an SUV, its CO2 emissions fall within efficiency classes E, F, and G, reflecting a greater focus on performance.

In contrast, the Citroën C5 Aircross shines with its eco-friendly credentials. Consumption ranges from just 1.4 L/100km for the plug-in hybrid to 5.6 L/100km for the conventional engines. Its CO2 emission ratings further bolster its standing, especially with the hybrid's impressive figure of just 32 g/km (Class B). This makes the C5 Aircross an attractive option for those prioritizing environmental responsibility.

C5 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Dimensions and Cargo Capacity

Size and storage capacity are significant factors in the SUV market. The Audi Q3 measures between 4484 mm to 4500 mm in length, with a width of about 1849 mm, and a height ranging from 1567 mm to 1585 mm. Its trunk provides a generous capacity of 530 liters, making it ideal for families and long trips.

The Citroën C5 Aircross, slightly larger in stature, reaches a length of 4500 mm with a width of 1859 mm and stands taller at 1688 mm. While it offers a competitive trunk capacity of 580 liters, its slightly higher and broader design may appeal to those seeking more cabin space and road presence.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Innovations and Comfort

Both models incorporate advanced innovations to enhance the driving experience. The Audi Q3 features a refined interior with state-of-the-art technology, focusing on connectivity and infotainment, characteristic of the Audi brand.

Meanwhile, the Citroën C5 Aircross excels in comfort with its acclaimed Advanced Comfort Seats and progressive hydraulic cushion suspension system, ensuring a smooth and relaxing ride even on bumpy surfaces. Its emphasis on a serene driving environment makes it particularly appealing to comfort-conscious buyers.

C5 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Final Verdict

Choosing between the Audi Q3 and Citroën C5 Aircross depends greatly on individual priorities. If performance and a sporty drive are at the forefront, the Q3's powerful engine lineup and dynamic handling make it a compelling choice. However, for those looking for efficiency, eco-friendly options, and unparalleled comfort, the C5 Aircross presents an excellent alternative.

Both models affirm their standing as top-tier contenders in the compact SUV segment, catering to different tastes but each delivering an impressive holistic package.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Q3 @ Audi AG

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Citroen C5 Aircross has a distinct advantage in terms of price – it starts at 29100 £, while the Audi Q3 costs 38200 £. That’s a price difference of around 9094 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Audi Q3 manages with 1.70 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Citroen C5 Aircross with 2.50 L. The difference is about 0.80 L per 100 km.

As for range, the Citroen C5 Aircross performs clearly better – achieving up to 520 km, about 401 km more than the Audi Q3.

C5 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Audi Q3 has a distinct edge – offering 272 HP compared to 210 HP. That’s roughly 62 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Audi Q3 is decisively quicker – completing the sprint in 5.70 s, while the Citroen C5 Aircross takes 8.30 s. That’s about 2.60 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Audi Q3 performs slight better – reaching 240 km/h, while the Citroen C5 Aircross tops out at 220 km/h. The difference is around 20 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Audi Q3 pulls noticeable stronger with 400 Nm compared to 300 Nm. That’s about 100 Nm difference.

Q3 @ Audi AG

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Citroen C5 Aircross is slight lighter – 1629 kg compared to 1635 kg. The difference is around 6 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Citroen C5 Aircross offers slightly more room – 565 L compared to 488 L. That’s a difference of about 77 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Citroen C5 Aircross performs to a small extent better – up to 1668 L, which is about 282 L more than the Audi Q3.

When it comes to payload, Audi Q3 a bit takes the win – 535 kg compared to 471 kg. That’s a difference of about 64 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Citroen C5 Aircross shows itself to be won narrowly and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £29,100
C5 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Citroen C5 Aircross

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Electric, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 145 - 210 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.5 - 5.4 L
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 17 kWh
  • Electric Range : 81 - 520 km

Audi Q3

5 (1)
rate

The Audi Q3 feels like a grown-up compact SUV with premium polish and city-friendly agility, the sort of car that makes weekend escapes and daily commutes equally satisfying. Inside, you get quality materials and smart packaging that keep things practical without skimping on style, so it’s an easy pick for buyers who want luxury without the drama.

details

Citroen C5 Aircross

The Citroën C5 Aircross feels like a sofa on wheels, delivering a calm, floaty ride and clever packaging that makes life with luggage and kids noticeably easier. Quirky French styling and a supremely practical, family-focused cabin mean it quietly wins hearts by prioritising comfort over showroom bravado.

details
Audi Q3
Citroen C5 Aircross
Q3 @ Audi AG
C5 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
38200 - 52900 £
Price
29100 - 41600 £
Consumption L/100km
1.7 - 8.6 L
Consumption L/100km
2.5 - 5.4 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
17 kWh
Electric Range
118 - 119 km
Electric Range
81 - 520 km
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
17.8 - 73 kWh
co2
39 - 195 g/km
co2
0 - 121 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 60 L
Fuel tank capacity
55 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1635 - 1900 kg
Curb weight
1629 - 2184 kg
Trunk capacity
375 - 488 L
Trunk capacity
565 L
Length
4531 mm
Length
4650 mm
Width
1859 mm
Width
1870 mm
Height
1559 - 1601 mm
Height
1695 mm
Max trunk capacity
1196 - 1386 L
Max trunk capacity
1668 L
Payload
505 - 535 kg
Payload
446 - 471 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Electric, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 272 HP
Power HP
145 - 210 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.3 - 11.2 s
Max Speed
208 - 240 km/h
Max Speed
170 - 220 km/h
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Torque
230 - 300 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
110 - 200 kW
Power kW
107 - 157 kW
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3
Engine capacity
1199 - 1598 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, A, B
Brand
Audi
Brand
Citroen
Is the Audi Q3 offered with different drivetrains?

The Audi Q3 is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.