2027 A5 vs. 2027 S5 Comparison

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Audi is a brand that has always put a lot of emphasis on performance, and the history of the four rings in motorsports is one of the most impressive of any auto manufacturer ever. So it should come as no surprise that the Audi A5 comes with generous power, agile handling, and an overall superior experience behind the wheel. But this is Audi, so there is always the option to turn up the performance, and that comes in the form of the S5. And while these two models are certainly related, it’s important to know the differences, and this guide will educate you on all of them.

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Audi A5 VS S5 - Performance

Table
2026 Audi Q7	VS	2026 Audi Q8
$62,000	Starting MSRP	$75,600
2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder	Standard Engine	3.0L Turbocharged V6
261 / 273 lb-ft	Horsepower / Torque	335 / 369 lb-ft
8-Speed Automatic	Transmission	8-Speed Automatic
3.0L Turbocharged V6	Available Engine	N/A
335 / 369 lb-ft	Available Horsepower / Torque	N/A
7,700 lbs	Max Towing Capacity	7,700 lbs
7	Seating Capacity	5
69.6 cubic feet	Max Cargo Volume	60.7 cubic feet
41.7 / 38.8 inches	Front / Rear Legroom	41.6 / 40.2 inches
39.9 / 38.8 inches	Front / Rear Headroom	37.1 / 38.1 inches

Performance

The first category in which we'll examine how the Audi Q7 compares to the Audi Q8 is performance. One key difference is the fact that the Q7 comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 261 horsepower while the Q8 is powered by a standard 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 cranking out 335 horsepower. Both come paired with identical 8-speed Tiptronic® automatic transmissions and the legendary confidence of quattro® all-wheel drive. However, the Q7 can be upgraded to the same 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 found on the Q8 for an additional cost. As a result, both share identical maximum towing capacity ratings of up to 7,700 pounds (when properly equipped). Essentially, the Q7 offers two engine options tailored to those who crave efficiency or pure power. The Q8, the more sport-focused variant, is powered solely by a muscular 3.0-liter V6 and benefits from exclusive performance features including available all-wheel steering and adaptive air suspension.

Interior Dimensions

Transitioning our attention toward the interiors of both the Q7 and Q8, we'll uncover a variety of key distinctions between them. Although it may seem obvious, the three-row Q7 offers seating for up to 7 passengers along with a maximum cargo capacity of 69.6 cubic feet. Comparatively, the Q8 and its coupe-like styling characteristics features two-row seating for up to 5 along with a similarly impressive 60.7 cubic feet of max cargo capacity. In addition, the sleek swept-back profile and lowered roofline of the Q8 unsurprisingly results in slightly lower headroom. If your lifestyle frequently involves transporting more than 5 passengers or you need extra space for equipment or hobbies that you're passionate about - the Q7 could be the right choice for you. Conversely, if you're the type that prioritizes eye-catching style and clever design - the Q8 is sure to impress.

Premium Features

Next, we'll take a look at the upscale features and cutting-edge technologies found on both of these large Audi SUVs. Some highlights included as standard on both models are leather upholstery with heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, panoramic sunroofs, ambient interior lighting, and the award-winning MMI® Navigation plus with MMI® touch response system. Looking to upgrade your audio experience? Both the Q7 and Q8 are available with the stunning Bang & Olufsen® 3D premium sound system. Always an industry leader in terms of active safety equipment, Audi offers a number of key driver-assist technologies on both models as well. Highlights include Audi pre sense® front/basic/rear, Top view camera system with Virtual 360 view, Adaptive cruise assist with Traffic Jam assist, and Lane departure warning. Both the Audi Q7 and Q8 remain tremendously popular with luxury SUV shoppers. Visit us at Audi Cincinnati East to learn more about what the Q7 and Q8 have to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s better for towing: the Audi Q7 or Audi Q8?

Fortunately, the Audi Q7 and Audi Q8 are both excellent choices for towing. In standard configurations, the Q7 offers a maximum towing capacity of up to 4,400 pounds (2.0L models). However, upgrading to its optional 3.0L turbocharged V6 increases the max towing rating to an impressive 7,700 pounds. Since every Audi Q8 comes standard with the upgraded engine, it also matches this 7,700-pound towing rating. The choice is yours!

What’s better for families: the Audi Q7 or Audi Q8?

Since space is always at a premium if you’re looking to transport your growing family, both the Audi Q7 and Q8 are great in terms of comfort. However, the standard third-row seats of the Audi Q7 allow you to transport a total of up to 7 passengers with ease. Whether you’re adding a new member to the family or you simply need some extra space for all of your essentials, the Q7 proves to be the more spacious option between the two.

What’s more expensive: the Audi Q7 or Audi Q8?

Featuring a starting price of $62,000, the most affordable option between these two Audi luxury SUVs is the Audi Q7. Featuring a slightly higher starting price, the Audi Q8 starts at $75,600. Both remain excellent choices for those looking for the ultimate combination of performance, refinement, style, and technology.

Do the Audi Q7 and Audi Q8 have quattro AWD?

Yes! Both the Audi Q7 and Audi Q8 come standard with the award-winning quattro all-wheel drive system for enhanced control and traction across the entire spectrum of road surface conditions.

What’s the main difference between the Audi Q7 and Audi Q8?

Since they share many similarities including standard quattro AWD, identically-sized 3.0L turbocharged engines, and many standard features – it can be hard to tell the difference between the Audi Q7 and Q8. The most notable difference comes from the seating configurations. The Q7 features three-row seating for up to 7 while the Q8 features two-row seating for up to 5.