

When searching for a new SUV, you may have several questions you'll ask. Does it have plenty of room inside? Are there features I’ll enjoy? How does the vehicle handle on the road?
Our team at Audi Vaughan will help answer those questions, and we'll also show how two popular luxury models—the 2023 Q5 and the X3—differ in those responses.
Learn all about these vehicles in our Audi Q5 vs. BMW X3 comparison, then contact us to take a test drive near Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Markham, or Brampton, ON.

PASSENGERS

LEATHER SEATING

ADAPTIVE AIR SUSPENSION

The Audi Q5 and the BMW X3 are known for their power. In fact, both SUVs can be equipped with several powertrains to achieve the dynamic drive you’re looking for. If you’re interested in power and expert handling, the Audi Q5 has what you’re looking for.
The 2023 Q5 is both practical and fun to drive, maintaining composure around turns while also providing a comfortable ride. It can be powered by two separate engines that are sure to kick up some thrills.
Engine
|
Horsepower
|
---|---|
40 TFSI® engine | 201 HP |
45 TFSI® engine | 261 HP |
On the other hand, the BMW X3 can also be outfitted with a few engines, each more powerful than the last.
In addition to power, these SUVs both come with standard all-wheel drive: quattro® all-wheel drive in the Q5 and xDrive in the X3. These drivetrains distribute power to all the wheels when necessary, delivering maximized grip on wet, dry, or uneven surfaces.
The Audi and the BMW both have expertly crafted suspensions that deliver a poised and precise experience. These suspensions work to make your ride feel effortless and smooth, no matter the road condition. The X3 only has one suspension available.
If you want a vehicle that adjusts your ride better, choose the Q5. This model is available with two additional suspensions: adaptive air suspension and adaptive damping. The first available suspension allows you to adjust the height of the Q5 for better ground clearance while the latter lets you take control while cornering.

As luxury SUVs, the Audi Q5 and the BMW X3 know a thing or two about how to keep their passengers comfortable. In fact, both vehicles are designed with you in mind, which means you’ll find modern amenities as well as cozy seating in either SUV to make the kilometres fly by.
As luxury SUVs, the 2023 Audi Q5 and the BMW X3 both have plenty of premium features that will enhance your commute. In addition to providing plenty of space for up to five passengers, features like a 3-zone automatic climate control system come standard on both vehicles.
This feature allows you, your copilot, and your rear-seat passengers to set individual temperatures within their respective areas.
Both SUVs also have standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel to match. These amenities will ensure you’re comfortable behind the wheel regardless of weather or current temperature.
Despite these similarities, you may prefer the first-class feel of the Audi Q5. This model has standard leather upholstery, delivering a premium and genuine experience to everyone in the cabin. Although Vernasca and Merino leather are available for the BMW, you’ll only have SensaTec (imitation leather) on the base model.

Maintaining confidence behind the wheel is essential. One way to achieve it is with the enhanced safety features offered on both models. Each vehicle uses cameras and sensors to monitor a range around your SUV, then provides an audible and/or visual alert when a potential hazard is detected. That way, you can make any necessary adjustments to help you and your passengers stay safe.
Some safety features both models offer include:
- Lane departure warning
- Side assist
- Front and rear parking sensors
On top of these features, both the Q5 and the X3 come with an additional model-specific safety feature that steps in when an unavoidable collision is detected: Audi pre sense® city and rear and the BMW Active Protection System. By automatically pretensioning the safety belts and closing all windows, the risk of injury may decrease.
Both SUVs provide plenty of advanced features that will help you feel confident behind the wheel, but it's the optional Audi adaptive cruise control with active lane assist functions that give Q5 drivers extra peace of mind. This feature is particularly helpful in heavy traffic and stop-and-go situations, as it automatically maintains a safe following distance and keeps your vehicle centered within your lane.
A similar system is available for the BMW X3 with the Advanced Driver Assistance Package.

Both the Audi Q5 and the BMW X3 are impressive vehicles. However, with ride adjustment capabilities and premium interior furnishings, we believe the 2023 Q5 is the right choice for you.
If you want to experience this luxury compact SUV for yourself near Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Markham, or Brampton, ON, schedule a test drive at Audi Vaughan today and experience The Pfaff Difference.
All of the tools you need to move forward with experiencing a new 2023 Q5 for yourself are conveniently available right here online.
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