Model
 2017 BMW x3 AWD SAV   
 2017 Audi Q5 Quattro 2.0T Premium
MSRP $38,950 $40,900
Standard Engine
Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder; 240 horsepower
Turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder; 220 horsepower
EPA- Estimated Fuel Economy (Base Model)
 21/28 mpg city/highway
 20/27 mpg city/highway
EPA- Estimated Annual Fuel Cost
$1,700
 $1,800
Maximum cargo space  (cubic Feet)
 63.3
 57.3
Passenger Capacity
 5 5
Standard Features
nine-speaker audio system, satellite radio, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, USB port, iDrive infotainment system, 6.5-inch display screen
Tri-zone automatic climate control, panoramic moonroof, 10-speaker audio system, Bluetooth phone connectivity, satellite radio, MMI Infotainment system. 6.5-inch color display screen
 

Safety

If safety is at the top of your priority list, the BMW X3 is a no-brainer. In government crash tests, the X3 was awarded five out of five stars overall, while the Audi Q5 only managed four stars. Furthermore, the X3 features several available advanced safety and driver assistance features, including a blind-spot monitor, a forward collision mitigation system with automatic emergency braking, rear and surround-view parking cameras, and a lane departure warning system. The Audi Q5 does not offer technologies for collision avoidance or lane departure.

Performance

Just because the BMW X3 exudes luxury, refinement and comfort doesn't mean there isn't something aggressive under the hood. The X3's base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generates 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, besting the Q5's output of 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet. The X3's most powerful engine, a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, outputs 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. The Q5's most powerful engine lags behind, with just 272 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque.

Technology

In addition to luxury and performance, the X3 is also big on features. Available with an optional Technology package, the X3 delivers a heads-up display, navigation system, smartphone app integration, BMW Remote Services, and a nine-speaker sound system with a USB port for charging your devices. Without even a USB charge port to charge your phone, the Q5 was described by Edmunds.com as being ideal for "those who don't give a lick about the latest technology."

In short, if Safety features, performance, and technology are high on your priority list, the BMW X3 is the clear choice. If you'd like to learn more about what separates the X3 from the rest of the vehicles in its segment, we would love to show you. Come visit our Fairfax BMW dealership where we're conveniently located to serve drivers from Washington D.C. and Silver Spring. We'll be happy to get you behind the wheel for a test drive.

BMW of Fairfax
A BMW M Certified Dealer Certified Center

BMW of Fairfax

8427 Lee Highway
Directions Fairfax, VA 22031

  • Contact Us: (855) 298-4218

Hours

  • Monday 9 AM - 7 PM
  • Tuesday 9 AM - 7 PM
  • Wednesday 9 AM - 7 PM
  • Thursday 9 AM - 7 PM
  • Friday 9 AM - 7 PM
  • Saturday 9 AM - 5 PM
  • Sunday Closed