Audi Q5 vs BYD Dolphin
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Audi Q5 | BYD Dolphin | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 268 | 201 | +33.3% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 400 | 310 | +29.0% |
| Fuel type | Petrol | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 7-Speed Automated Manual | Single Speed | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $54,500 | $26,355 | +106.8% |
- Audi Q5 makes about 33% more power (268 vs 201 hp).
- Their economy figures use different measures (Petrol vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
- Prices are converted to USD from their home markets (US and Malaysia); taxes and availability differ by country.
Verdict: Q5 or Dolphin?
Audi Q5 advantages
- Engine power (+25%)
- Pulling torque (+23%)
BYD Dolphin advantages
- Affordability (+52%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Audi Q5 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
- Choose the BYD Dolphin if you want the lower upfront cost.
- Choose the Audi Q5 if you tow, carry loads or drive hilly roads.
Value for money
BYD Dolphin delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Audi Q5 vs BYD Dolphin: which should you choose?
Audi Q5 (2026 Premium Plus 45 TFSI) — petrol suv with 268 hp and 400 Nm, rated at 10.2 km/L; priced near $54,500 in the US market.
BYD Dolphin (2023 Premium Extended Range) — electric hatchback with 201 hp and 310 Nm; priced near $26,355 in the Malaysia market.
Audi Q5 vs BYD Dolphin: Audi Q5 is more powerful. Audi Q5 makes about 33% more power (268 vs 201 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Petrol vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Performance
The Audi Q5 is the more powerful, at 268 hp against 201 hp, with 400 Nm of torque on tap. Its petrol drivetrain pairs with a 7-speed automated manual transmission.
Running costs
These cars use different energy types (Petrol vs Electric), so compare cost per kilometre at your local fuel and electricity prices rather than a single economy number.
Price and value
The BYD Dolphin lists lower at about $26,355 (USD-converted from the Malaysia market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Audi Q5 better than the BYD Dolphin?
Audi Q5 takes the overall edge, though BYD Dolphin wins in specific areas worth weighing. Audi Q5 makes about 33% more power (268 vs 201 hp).
What is the main difference between the Audi Q5 and the BYD Dolphin?
Audi Q5 makes about 33% more power (268 vs 201 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Petrol vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Which is better value?
BYD Dolphin delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Audi Q5 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence. Choose the BYD Dolphin if you want the lower upfront cost.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.