Nissan Leaf vs Audi Q5
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Nissan Leaf | Audi Q5 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 214 | 268 | -20.1% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 339 | 400 | -15.3% |
| Fuel type | Electric | Petrol | — |
| Transmission | 1-Speed Automatic | 7-Speed Automated Manual | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $36,900 | $54,500 | -32.3% |
- Audi Q5 makes about 20% more power (268 vs 214 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.
Verdict: Leaf or Q5?
Nissan Leaf advantages
- Affordability (+32%)
Audi Q5 advantages
- Engine power (+20%)
- Pulling torque (+15%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Nissan Leaf if you want the lower upfront cost.
- Choose the Audi Q5 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Value for money
Nissan Leaf delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Nissan Leaf vs Audi Q5: which should you choose?
Nissan Leaf (2026 SV Plus) — electric hatchback with 214 hp and 339 Nm, rated at 20.1 kWh/100km, 5-star NHTSA safety; priced near $36,900 in the US 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.
Nissan Leaf vs Audi Q5: Audi Q5 is more powerful. Audi Q5 makes about 20% more power (268 vs 214 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 214 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 Nissan Leaf lists lower at about $36,900 (USD-converted from the US 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 Nissan Leaf better than the Audi Q5?
Audi Q5 takes the overall edge, though Nissan Leaf wins in specific areas worth weighing. Audi Q5 makes about 20% more power (268 vs 214 hp).
What is the main difference between the Nissan Leaf and the Audi Q5?
Audi Q5 makes about 20% more power (268 vs 214 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?
Nissan Leaf delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Nissan Leaf 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.