@ Audi AG
@ BMW Group Press
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Audi Q8 vs BMW X5 – Which model is better for everyday use?

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Audi Q8 or BMW X5?

Q8 @ Audi AG

The battle of the luxury SUVs heats up as we compare two heavyweights in the segment: the Audi Q8 and BMW X5. Known for their blend of performance, comfort, and technology, these vehicles attract discerning buyers looking for both style and substance. In this article, we will delve into the technical specifications, innovations, and overall driving experience of these two prestigious models.

X5 @ BMW Group Press

Design and Dimensions

The Audi Q8 exudes a sporty and muscular stance with a length of 4,992 mm, a width of 1,995 mm, and a height of 1,697 mm. In contrast, the BMW X5 measures slightly smaller at 4,935 mm in length and 2,004 mm in width, but stands taller at 1,765 mm. Both SUVs sport a modern design language, but Audi opts for a more aggressive front-end with its prominent grille, while the X5 features BMW's classic kidney grille and sleek lines that reflect its heritage.

Q8 @ Audi AG

Powertrains and Performance

When it comes to power, both vehicles offer a range of engines to suit different preferences. The Audi Q8 provides an array of options, including a 3.0-liter V6 producing up to 490 hp and a powerful 4.0-liter V8 generating a staggering 640 hp. Fuel economy for the Q8 ranges from 8.1 L/100km for its diesel engine to around 12.8 L/100km for the petrol variants.

On the flip side, the BMW X5 boasts a robust lineup as well, featuring engines that go up to 625 hp. Similar to the Q8, it offers petrol and diesel MHEV options, achieving a fuel consumption figure as low as 7.4 L/100km. The acceleration times are impressive for both models, with the Q8 reaching 0-100 km/h in as little as 3.6 seconds and the X5 in 3.9 seconds for the high-performance variants.

X5 @ BMW Group Press

Technological Innovations

Both the Q8 and X5 are packed with technological advancements to enhance the driving experience. The Audi Q8 features the MMI touch response system, which includes a dual touchscreen interface that controls everything from navigation to climate settings, offering excellent responsiveness and ease of use.

The BMW X5 counters with its iDrive system, which has been optimized for usability and now includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with another 12.3-inch touchscreen display. Furthermore, the X5 provides an intuitive rotary controller for easy navigation, showcasing the blend of innovation and practicality.

Q8 @ Audi AG

Interior Comfort and Space

Inside the Audi Q8, luxurious materials and a spacious cabin create a refined atmosphere. With ample passenger space and a trunk capacity ranging from 605 to 605 liters, the Q8 ensures enough room for all needs. Its seating for five is comfortable, with high-quality upholstery and strategic ergonomics.

On the other hand, the BMW X5 offers a slightly larger trunk at 650 liters, providing extra utility for cargo. The interior boasts premium finishes with customizable ambient lighting and intelligent storage solutions that enhance the overall user experience.

X5 @ BMW Group Press

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety is paramount in both vehicles, with advanced driver assistance systems that add layers of security on the road. The Audi Q8 features adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and a rear cross-traffic alert. Meanwhile, the BMW X5 includes features like the Driving Assistant Plus and Parking Assistant, placing a strong emphasis on not just driver safety but also convenience.

Q8 @ Audi AG

Conclusion: Which SUV Reigns Supreme?

Choosing between the Audi Q8 and BMW X5 ultimately depends on individual preferences. The Q8 showcases superior acceleration and a luxurious tech-packed cabin, while the X5 shines with its traditional BMW performance and slightly more spacious cargo area. Both are exceptional offerings in the luxury SUV segment, featuring innovations and technologies that cater to a premium driving experience. Prospective buyers should take the time to test drive both models to discover which one aligns best with their lifestyle.

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

X5 @ BMW Group Press

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Audi Q8 has a hardly perceptible advantage in terms of price – it starts at 75800 £, while the BMW X5 costs 77100 £. That’s a price difference of around 1286 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: BMW X5 manages with 0.80 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Audi Q8 with 1.30 L. The difference is about 0.50 L per 100 km.

As for range, the BMW X5 performs clearly perceptible better – achieving up to 105 km, about 22 km more than the Audi Q8.

Q8 @ Audi AG

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 Q8 has a slight edge – offering 640 HP compared to 625 HP. That’s roughly 15 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Audi Q8 is minimal quicker – completing the sprint in 3.60 s, while the BMW X5 takes 3.90 s. That’s about 0.30 s faster.

There’s no difference in top speed – both reach 250 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Audi Q8 pulls to a small extent stronger with 850 Nm compared to 750 Nm. That’s about 100 Nm difference.

X5 @ BMW Group Press

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, Audi Q8 is slight lighter – 2175 kg compared to 2240 kg. The difference is around 65 kg.

In terms of boot space, the BMW X5 offers barely noticeable more room – 650 L compared to 605 L. That’s a difference of about 45 L.

In maximum load capacity, the BMW X5 performs hardly perceptible better – up to 1870 L, which is about 115 L more than the Audi Q8.

When it comes to payload, BMW X5 minimal takes the win – 705 kg compared to 665 kg. That’s a difference of about 40 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the BMW X5 shows itself to be leaves the rival little chance 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 £77,100
X5 @ BMW Group Press

BMW X5

  • Engine Type : Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 298 - 625 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 0.8 - 12.8 L
  • Electric Range : 105 km

Audi Q8

The Audi Q8 combines luxurious design with advanced technology, offering a sophisticated driving experience. Its sleek exterior is complemented by a spacious and elegantly crafted interior, featuring high-quality materials and cutting-edge infotainment options. The Q8 handles with agility and precision, making it equally suited for city driving and long-distance journeys.

details

BMW X5

The BMW X5 embodies a perfect blend of luxury and performance, offering a driving experience that is both dynamic and comfortable. Its elegant design is complemented by a spacious, high-quality interior that prioritises driver and passenger comfort. Advanced technology features ensure that the X5 meets the demands of modern drivers, providing both entertainment and safety on the road.

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Audi Q8
BMW X5
Q8 @ Audi AG
X5 @ BMW Group Press

Costs and Consumption

Price
75800 - 135600 £
Price
77100 - 143500 £
Consumption L/100km
1.3 - 13.1 L
Consumption L/100km
0.8 - 12.8 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
82 - 83 km
Electric Range
105 km
Battery Capacity
22 kWh
Battery Capacity
25.70 kWh
co2
30 - 297 g/km
co2
19 - 289 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
75 - 85 L
Fuel tank capacity
69 - 83 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
2175 - 2490 kg
Curb weight
2240 - 2495 kg
Trunk capacity
439 - 605 L
Trunk capacity
500 - 650 L
Length
4992 - 5022 mm
Length
4935 - 4948 mm
Width
1995 - 2007 mm
Width
2004 - 2015 mm
Height
1697 - 1708 mm
Height
1755 - 1765 mm
Max trunk capacity
1755 L
Max trunk capacity
1720 - 1870 L
Payload
620 - 665 kg
Payload
565 - 705 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV, Petrol
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
231 - 640 HP
Power HP
298 - 625 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.6 - 7.1 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.9 - 6.1 s
Max Speed
226 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
233 - 250 km/h
Torque
500 - 850 Nm
Torque
540 - 750 Nm
Number of Cylinders
6 - 8
Number of Cylinders
6 - 8
Power kW
170 - 471 kW
Power kW
219 - 460 kW
Engine capacity
2967 - 3996 cm3
Engine capacity
2993 - 4395 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2023 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, G
Brand
Audi
Brand
BMW
What drive types are available for the Audi Q8?

Available configurations include 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.