2025 Audi Q3 vs. Audi Q5

Performance and Efficiency

Powertrain options vary depending on the model and trim. The 2025 Audi Q3 Premium 45 features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 228 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds. A more potent 2.0-liter turbo in the Audi Q5 Premium 45 boosts output to 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque and reduces the luxury SUV's 0-to-60 mph sprint time to 5.7 seconds. If you crave more speed, the 2025 Audi Q5 Plug-in Hybrid Premium 55 delivers 362 combined horsepower and races from 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds flat.

EPA estimates for the 2025 Q3 and Q5 are 25 mpg and 26 mpg combined, respectively, while the Q5 Plug-in Hybrid earns an estimated 58 MPGe. You can expect annual fuel costs of $2,550 for the Q3 45, $2,250-$2,350 for Q5 40/45 trim levels, and $1,700 for the Q5 Plug-in Hybrid 55 — potentially offsetting the hybrid's higher purchase price over time.

Exterior and Interior Dimensions

Size sets these SUVs apart. The city-friendly Q3 is 176.6 inches long, 79.7 inches wide, and 62.9 inches tall, while the Q5's exterior dimensions are 184.3 inches, 84.2 inches, and 65.5 inches, respectively. The Q5's 111-inch wheelbase and 4,079-4,619-pound curb weight exceed the Q3's 105.5 inches and 3,913 pounds.

Both Audi models seat five people and feature 39.6 inches of front headroom. Front legroom differs, however, with 40 inches in the Q3 versus 40.9 inches in the Q5. Rear passengers in the Q3 enjoy 37.6 inches of headroom and 36.1 inches of legroom, while the Q5 provides those in the back with 39.3 inches and 38 inches, respectively. This may be a deciding factor if you need to accommodate adult passengers or car seats.

A variance in cargo capacity reflects the noticeable size difference between the SUVs. The Q3 has 23.7 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 48 cubic feet with the seats folded, while the Q5 offers 25.9 cubic feet with the rear seats upright and a maximum volume of 54.1 cubic feet, useful for shopping trips and weekend getaways.

Exterior Styling

These luxury Audi SUVs share DNA but have distinct characteristics. The Q3 features sharp angles and bold lines. Its prominent hexagonal grille, triangular air inlets, and defined fenders create a contemporary, sporty look.

The Q5 presents a more refined exterior than its sibling, with horizontal lines and subtle curves. Chrome lower-body accents and a grid-style mesh grille with chrome surround add elegance, while larger headlights and horizontally extended air vents give it greater road presence.

Both models feature Audi's signature sloping roofline and powerful shoulder line, 20-inch wheel options, a power liftgate, auto-dimming and power-folding mirrors, and high beam assist.

Interior Comfort and Connectivity Options

Audi's focus on luxury is evident in both vehicles. High-quality leather upholstery and heated front seats come standard across both lineups. The Q3 features a 10.1-inch touch screen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 15-speaker premium Sonos sound system, and panoramic sunroof.

The Q5 shares the same 10.1-inch touch screen and offers Audi's virtual cockpit, an exclusive head-up display, and a Bang & Olufsen audio system as upgrades. Both SUVs include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Q5 adds aluminum trim accents and an automated parking system — minor differences that enhance its upscale appeal.

Safety and Reliability

Audi pre sense basic is standard on the 2025 Q3 and Q5. This innovative safety package includes technologies that pretension the seatbelts and close the windows if the system detects a potential collision. Both models also come with lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic assist, blind-spot monitoring, and emergency braking. The Q5 adds adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist and active lane assist. Both SUVs are reliable, earning five-star overall ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Warranty Coverage, Maintenance, and Ownership Costs

The Q3 and Q5 come with identical protection plans. Audi provides a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty covering most vehicle components and a four-year/50,000-mile powertrain warranty for the engine, transmission, and other drivetrain parts. This package aligns with what you'd expect from a luxury brand, giving you greater peace of mind during the first years of ownership.

Complimentary scheduled maintenance isn't included, meaning you'll pay out of pocket for oil changes, filter replacements, and routine checkups. It's worth factoring these costs into your budget, and you may consider purchasing a prepaid maintenance plan when purchasing a new Audi to simplify the ownership experience.

Pricing and Trim Levels

The starting MSRP for the 2025 Q3 ranges from $39,800 for the Premium 45 to $42,600 for the Premium Plus 45. In contrast, you can expect starting MSRPs of $45,400 and $66,700 for the Q5 Premium and Q5 Plug-in Hybrid Prestige 55, respectively.

Audi offers the Q3 in two trims, while the Q5 and hybrid variants are available in three trim levels. The Q5 provides added versatility with its range of powertrain options, interior space, and superior towing capacity (4,400 pounds compared to the Q3's 1,500 pounds). On the other hand, the Q3 is an ideal entry-level luxury SUV for urban driving.

Explore the 2025 Q3 and Q5 at Audi Mission Viejo Today

The Q3 is perfect if you want a daily driver for city commutes that's easy to park. It delivers affordable luxury, sufficient cargo capacity, and premium amenities in a compact package. You may prefer the more spacious Q5 if you have a large or growing family or the Q5 Plug-in Hybrid if you prioritize efficiency. Regardless of your choice, you can expect capable performance, quality features, innovative tech, and the reliability you expect from Audi. Contact us to schedule a test drive. Our Audi Mission Viejo team will help you find your perfect match.