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Audi Q3 vs Citroen C5 Aircross comparison

Compare performance (272 HP vs 225 HP), boot space and price (38,200 £ vs 29,100 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Audi Q3 or Citroen C5 Aircross?

Audi Q3 vs Citroen C5 Aircross: Key differences

Audi Q3

4.2 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • somewhat more power
  • significantly more efficient
  • considerably quicker 0–100 km/h
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Citroen C5 Aircross

4 (6 Reviews)
rate
  • visibly cheaper
  • clearly more electric range
  • barely lighter
  • a bit more trunk space
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Q3

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

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

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

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

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

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

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Citroen C5 Aircross is visibly cheaper – starting at 29,100 £ , while the Audi Q3 costs 38,200 £ . That’s a price difference of around 9,094 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Audi Q3 uses 1.7 L/100km and is significantly more efficient than the Citroen C5 Aircross with 2.5 L/100km. The difference is about 0.8 L/100km.

As for electric range, the Citroen C5 Aircross offers clearly more range – reaching up to 520 km, about 401 km more than the Audi Q3.

C5 Aircross

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Audi Q3 offers somewhat more power – delivering 272 HP compared to 225 HP. That’s roughly 47 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Audi Q3 is considerably quicker – completing the sprint in 5.7 s, while the Citroen C5 Aircross takes 8.3 s. That’s about 2.6 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Audi Q3 delivers markedly more torque with 400 Nm compared to 300 Nm. That’s about 100 Nm more.

Q3

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Citroen C5 Aircross is barely lighter – 1,629 kg compared to 1,635 kg. The difference is around 6 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Citroen C5 Aircross offers a bit more boot space – 565 L compared to 488 L. That’s a difference of about 77 L.

When it comes to payload, the Audi Q3 carries somewhat more – 535 kg compared to 471 kg. That’s a difference of about 64 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Citroen C5 Aircross is slightly ahead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £29,100
C5 Aircross

Citroen C5 Aircross

  • Engine Type Petrol MHEV, Electric, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 145 - 225 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 2.5 - 5.4 L/100km
  • Consumption kWh/100km 17 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range 81 - 520 km
Audi Q3
Citroen C5 Aircross

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

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Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

Audi Q3

The Audi Q3 is a compact premium crossover that blends sharp styling with a well-crafted interior, making it an appealing choice for urban drivers who want a touch of luxury. It delivers a composed ride, intuitive tech features and a practical cabin, so it works well as a comfortable daily driver with an upscale feel.

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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.

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Audi Q3
Citroen C5 Aircross

Costs and Consumption

Price
38,200 - 52,900 £
Price
29,100 - 43,000 £
Consumption L/100km
1.7 - 8.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
2.5 - 5.4 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
17 kWh/100km
Electric Range
118 - 119 km
Electric Range
81 - 520 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
39 - 195 g/km
co2
0 - 121 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,635 - 1,900 kg
Curb weight
1,629 - 2,184 kg
Trunk capacity
375 - 488 L
Trunk capacity
565 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,859 mm
Width
1,870 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
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 - 225 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.3 - 11.2 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
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 - 165 kW
Engine capacity
1,498 - 1,984 cm3
Engine capacity
1,199 - 1,598 cm3

General

Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, G, B, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, A, B
Brand
Audi
Brand
Citroen
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.