Audi and BMW - perennial benchmarks in the automotive industry for their unique combinations of performance and luxury throughout their lineup of sedans, coupes, crossovers, and SUVs. On the surface, it may appear that these two German brands manufacture similar vehicles in each segment, but to help dispel that myth, we've done the research, examined the details, and assembled a side by side comparison of some of their most popular models so that you can better determine which brand delivers more for your money.
Audi A3 vs BMW 3 Series
 | VS |  |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 Audi A3 40 TFSI quattro Premium Plus | Competitive Comparison | 2022 BMW 330i xDrive |
| $40,100 ✔ | MSRP | $43,250 |
| 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder TFSI® engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid (MHEV) system | Powertrain | 2.0L TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cyl. |
| 28 / 36 / 31 ✔ | MPG (city/hwy/combined) | 25 / 34 / 28 |
| Regular Unleaded ✔ | Recommended Fuel | Premium Unleaded |
| Standard ✔ | Heated Front Seats | Optional |
| Standard ✔ | Leather Interior | Optional |
| 10.25 inches ✔ | Digital Instrument Cluster Size | 8.8 inches |
| 130 MPH | Top Track Speed | 130 MPH |
| 3,329 lbs ✔ | Curb Weight | 3,764 lbs |
In an effort to compare "apples to apples" in terms of trim level, we will compare the Audi A3 40 TFSI quattro Premium Plus with the BMW 330i xDrive Sedan. This trim level equips both sedans with similar drivetrains in terms of horsepower and all-wheel-drive capability. Now with the two vehicles lined up, side-by-side, let's explore the key differences between these two 'seemingly' equal competitors.
Starting with the largest difference, the A3 40 TFSI quattro Premium Plus holds a price advantage of more than $3,000 versus the BMW 330i xDrive.While both share identical top speed ratings, the A3 is the superior choice when it comes to efficiency. It tops the BMW across all three MPG categories and does so using less-expensive regular unleaded fuel.
Looking at standard equipment found on the Audi A3 and BMW 330i, there are a variety of areas where Audi outshines BMW. Let's start with the fact the Audi A3 40 TFSI quattro Premium Plus includes a leather interior as standard equipment - something you'll need to pay BMW an additional fee to include on the 330i xDrive Sedan.
In addition, the Audi A3 40 TFSI quattro Premium Plus offers better tech. The standard 48 volt mild hybrid (MHEV) system makes the A3 more fuel-efficient than ever, and the larger digital gauge cluster helps you to keep an eye on important systems at all times.
If you buy the Audi A3, you'll save thousands of dollars and get more standard equipment, like heated leather seats. Choosing BMW over Audi will prove to be a costly mistake.
Audi SQ5 vs BMW X5
 | VS |  |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 Audi SQ5 3.0T Premium Plus quattro | Competitive Comparison | 2022 BMW X5 xDrive40i |
| $60,000 ✔ | MSRP | $62,900 |
| 349/369 ✔ | Horsepower/Torque | 335/330 |
| 3.0L TFSI® turbocharged 6-cylinder | Drivetrain | 3.0L BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder |
| 5.1 Seconds ✔ | 0-60 MPH | 5.3 Seconds |
| Standard | 12.3-inch Digital Instrument Cluster | Standard |
| Standard ✔ | Leather Interior | Optional |
| 19.2 inches ✔ | Turning Radius | 20.6 inches |
| 40.9 / 37.8 inches ✔ | Front/Rear Leg Room | 39.8 / 37.5 inches |
| Standard ✔ | Wireless Cell Phone Charging | Optional |
Much like our previous match-up, in an effort to match driveline configuration and horsepower, we chose Audi's high-performing SQ5 to go head-to-head with the BMW X5. Each trim level comes standard with a similar powertrain, drivetrain, and 5-passenger capability. But while both luxury SUVs are powered by a 3.0L turbocharged six-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive, that's where the similarities end and the Audi begins to shine in terms of performance, standard equipment, and value.
The first noticeable contrasts between the SQ5 and X5 are pricing and performance. When comparing price tags, the Audi SQ5 will save you $2,400 versus the BMW X5. Although their drivetrains and powertrains are similar, Audi's SQ5 delivers 14 more horsepower and 39 lb-ft of additional torque than its competitor. This additional horsepower and torque translates to a quicker 0-60 straight-line acceleration time for the Audi SQ5 versus the BMW X5, while a smaller turning radius is additional evidence of the nimbleness of the Audi SQ5.
In addition to its performance and handling, the Audi also outshines the BMW in terms of interior appointments. The SQ5 delivers what you would expect in a $50,000+ luxury SUV - standard leather seating. If you want leather seating in your BMW X5, that will cost you an extra $1,450. Additionally, Audi's the Audi SQ5 has more legroom in its front and rear rows for drivers and passengers alike to stretch their legs.
Both vehicles also have sophisticated dashboards - each with standard technological features including smartphone integration and 12.3-inch Digital Instrument Clusters for displaying vital driving information. However, if you want a wireless charging pad for your smartphone, you'll need to add an expensive convenience package on the BMW X5 to include that feature. While the Audi SQ5 and BMW X5 may appear to be equals, a closer look reveals the Audi as the better option where it counts.
Audi Q7 vs BMW X7
 | VS |  |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 Audi Q7 55 TFSI Premium Plus quattro | Competitive Comparison | 2022 BMW X7 xDrive40i |
| $66,100 ✔ | MSRP | $74,900 |
| 335/369 ✔ | Horsepower/Torque | 335/330 |
| 5.7 Seconds ✔ | Acceleration 0-60 MPH | 5.8 Seconds |
| 7,700 pounds ✔ | Towing Capacity | 5,400 pounds |
| Full LED Standard | Headlamps | LED Standard |
| Standard | 12.3-inch Digital Instrument Cluster | Standard |
| Standard ✔ | Leather Seating | Optional |
| Standard ✔ | Wireless Charging | Optional |
| 41.7/38.6/29.2 ✔ | Legroom (1st/2nd/3rd, inches) | 39.8/37.6/33.3 |
Here, we see two full-size luxury SUVs that have a lot in common. Both the Audi Q7 and the BMW X7 xDrive 40i provide standard all-wheel drive, 7-passenger seating capacity, LED headlamps, as well as driver assistance and interior convenience features, but just from the above chart, you'll see there are some significant differences as well.
Let's start with the MSRP of each vehicle. The Audi Q7 Premium Plus has an MSRP that is $8,800 less than the BMW X7 xDrive40i. Though both SUVs have the exact same horsepower, the Audi Q7 delivers more torque, which translates to a small advantage in acceleration from 0-60, but a dramatic advantage in terms of towing between the two SUVs. The Audi Q7 can tow 2,300 more pounds than the BMW X7.
Day-to-day driving pleasure comes from more than just powertrain and towing specs. On the inside of each of these flagship SUVs you'll find the latest tech - including 12.3-inch digital instrument screens and wireless cell phone charging. However, the BMW X7's lack of standard leather seating and limited legroom are both reasons to choose the Audi over the BMW.
So if you're looking for the 7-Passenger Luxury SUV with the best combination of performance, towing capability, interior room, and luxury appointments - while also saving yourself $8,800, the choice is clear - the 7-Passenger Audi Q7 Premium Plus SUV.
Audi vs. BMW: Safety
In addition to pioneering its legendary quattro® all-wheel-drive technology, Audi vehicles have earned a reputation as the safest vehicles out there. In fact, no fewer than 10 Audi models have received the coveted Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ awards from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). BMW, by comparison, has received just three awards for their 2022 model lineup. It's clear that Audi vehicles offer superior crash protection.
Winner-Audi
Both Audi and BMW are known for their luxury vehicles, but Audi comes out as the superior brand for earning its trust in providing the best features for the greatest value. Where BMW expects you to spend more for less, Audi believes you should pay less for more. Visit Audi Cincinnati East where our well-trained professionals will take care of your every need while showing you even more benefits from choosing Audi over its competitors.
