2025 Audi Q8 vs. BMW X5

When comparing the 2025 Audi Q8 and BMW X5, it's easy to get lost in the numbers. The BMW has a range of powerful engine options, and the Audi has a sporty design and additional interior luxury. But if you're looking for reasons to favor the Audi, there are several real advantages — especially when it comes to comfort, safety, and exclusive tech. This car review comparison explores the 2025 Audi Q8  versus BMW X5 to help you make a more informed choice.

What's New for 2025?

Both models received major updates in previous generations, so for the 2025 model year, the only alterations have been minor updates in safety tech. For Audi, this is the addition of traffic sign recognition as a standard feature; BMW adds lane change assistance. 

2025 Audi Q8 vs. BMW X5 Performance

Let's talk numbers. The Audi Q8 has a 3.0-liter turbo V-6 engine that produces 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It's smooth and refined, and accelerates to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard across its entire lineup.

The BMW X5 comes with three engine options. The base inline-six engine delivers 375 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. The plug-in hybrid delivers 483 horsepower, while the M60i, with its V-8 engine, delivers 523 horsepower. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard rear-wheel drive on the base trim or AWD on the top two. In terms of speed, the base engine completes a 0-to-60 mph sprint in 4.8 seconds. If you're after even more punch, the M60i's 523 horsepower drops that time to just 3.6 seconds.

Fuel Economy Ratings

Fuel economy numbers slightly favor the X5, which achieves 23 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway for the X5 xDrive40i model. The M60i model with the V-8 engine is rated at 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. The Q8 returns 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, so you'll need to stop for fuel more often in the Audi.

Design and Interior Features

The Q8 has a coupe-like roofline, which gives it a sportier look and a lower stance. The frameless grille and sharp LED signatures are exclusive to Audi and make a real impression at night. It boasts standard heated front seats and a panoramic sunroof that makes the space feel larger and airier. Amongst the luxury features on higher trims are four-zone climate control, massaging front seats, and a leather dash. 

The BMW X5, on the other hand, is more upright and versatile, but despite its deluxe interior, it offers only two-zone climate control. Many features that make the BMW feel like a luxury car are optional extras.

Space and Comfort

The Audi offers a more comfortable experience for rear passengers with 40.2 inches of rear legroom versus the BMW's 37.4 inches. In the front, you'll find 41.6 inches of legroom in the Q8 versus 39.8 inches in the BMW. That extra space makes a real difference on longer drives, especially if you regularly have adults or taller teens in the back seat.

The BMW X5 offers slightly more headroom up front than the Audi (40.7 inches versus the Q8's 37.1 inches), and its rear cargo area is larger — 72 cubic feet with seats folded, compared to the Q8's 61 cubic feet. Audi does give rear passengers more legroom: 40.2 inches in the Q8's second row, compared to 37.4 inches in the X5, so if stretching out is a priority, the Q8 takes the lead. That extra space is noticeable if you regularly carry adults in the back.

Technology Features

The Q8's cabin is all about luxurious minimalism and modern tech, with haptic feedback touch screens and premium materials throughout. The Audi has two screens integrated into the dash (a 10.1-inch main infotainment touch screen and an 8.6-inch secondary touch screen) and offers a Wi-Fi hot spot and optional wireless charging. The BMW has a curved screen that spans nearly half of the dash, including a 12.3-inch gauge display and a 14.9-inch touch screen. It offers a Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless charging pad as standard.

Safety and Reliability

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration rated the 2025 Audi Q8 at five stars overall in its crash test results. In contrast, the BMW scored four stars overall with lower results on frontal crash and rollover. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has rated both models a Top Safety Pick. Both SUVs have plenty of safety tech, including forward collision warning systems and automated emergency braking.

Pricing and Value

The Audi Q8 has a slightly higher starting price of $75,695 for the base Premium model and $83,795 for the top Prestige model, while the BMW X5 costs $67,475 for the base sDrive40i and increases to $92,025 for the M60i. But with the Audi Q8, you're paying for more than just the badge; its standard AWD, great safety tech, and roomy rear seating justify the extra cost for many buyers.

Warranty is another consideration when comparing value. Audi provides the same limited powertrain warranty as BMW and Mercedes-Benz, which includes coverage for four years or 50,000 miles.

Final Verdict: Which Car Is Better?

If you're a driver who prioritizes horsepower, cargo space, and a lower price tag, the 2025 BMW X5 is a solid choice. But if you want a luxury SUV that puts passenger comfort, safety, and advanced technology first, the 2025 Audi Q8 is hard to beat. That extra rear legroom is a bonus for families with tall teens or adults, and its exclusive safety features and standard AWD set it apart in ways you'll notice with every drive. If you want to experience the difference for yourself, visit Audi Mission Viejo for a test drive.