BMW i3s vs Audi Q5
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | BMW i3s | Audi Q5 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 184 | 268 | -31.3% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 270 | 400 | -32.5% |
| Fuel type | Electric | Petrol | — |
| Transmission | Automatic | 7-Speed Automated Manual | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $45,900 | $54,500 | -15.8% |
- Audi Q5 makes about 31% more power (268 vs 184 hp).
- Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Petrol), 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 (Germany and US); taxes and availability differ by country.
Verdict: i3s or Q5?
BMW i3s advantages
- Affordability (+16%)
Audi Q5 advantages
- Engine power (+31%)
- Pulling torque (+33%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the BMW i3s if you want the lower upfront cost.
- Choose the Audi Q5 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Value for money
Audi Q5 delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
BMW i3s vs Audi Q5: which should you choose?
BMW i3s (2021 120 Ah Sport) — electric hatchback with 184 hp and 270 Nm, rated at 16.3 kWh/100km, 4-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $45,900 in the Germany market.
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.
BMW i3s vs Audi Q5: Audi Q5 is more powerful. Audi Q5 makes about 31% more power (268 vs 184 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Petrol), 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 184 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 (Electric vs Petrol), so compare cost per kilometre at your local fuel and electricity prices rather than a single economy number.
Price and value
The BMW i3s lists lower at about $45,900 (USD-converted from the Germany 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 BMW i3s better than the Audi Q5?
Audi Q5 takes the overall edge, though BMW i3s wins in specific areas worth weighing. Audi Q5 makes about 31% more power (268 vs 184 hp).
What is the main difference between the BMW i3s and the Audi Q5?
Audi Q5 makes about 31% more power (268 vs 184 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Petrol), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Which is better value?
Audi Q5 delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the BMW i3s if you want the lower upfront cost. Choose the Audi Q5 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
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.