Audi is going through a makeover at the moment. With its new design language both inside and outside, it is also updating the mechanical elements of its SUVs. One of those cars is the 2026 Q3, which features some important updates for this year.
So how does it fair against its bigger brother, the Q5? With two of Audi’s most popular cars in their latest generation, the gap is closer than ever. We compare the difference between the Audi Q3 and the Q5 in all the key metrics – powertrain, exterior, interior and finally, how much they cost in 2026.
All information has been sourced from the manufacturer or test drive experience, where available. All prices listed are MSRP, which does not include any offers or additional fees. Automakers reserve the right to update pricing at their own discretion and without notice.
Audi Q3 vs Q5 Engine Specs
The Q5 Has Something The Q3 Doesn’t
2026 Audi Q3Jared Rosenholtz/CarBuzz/Valnet
2026 Audi Q3 vs Audi Q5 Specs
Model
2026 Audi Q3
2026 Audi Q5
2026 Audi SQ5
Engine
2.0L Turbo I4
2.0L Turbo I4
3.0L Turbo V6
Gearbox
7-speed Dual-clutch Automatic
7-speed Dual-clutch Automatic
7-speed Dual-clutch Automatic
Power
255 hp
268 hp
362 hp
Torque
273 lb-ft
295 lb-ft
406 lb-ft
0–60 mph
~5.5 secs
~5.8 secs
~4.6 secs
Best Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined)
22/29/25 mpg
21/29/24 mpg
21/28/23 mpg
Weight
3,935 lbs
4,244 lbs
4,310 lbs
On paper, the Q3 and Q5 have similar setups. They both feature a 2.0-liter inline-four engine with all-wheel drive as standard. They both also have a 48-volt MHEV setup. For 2026, the Q3 received a power upgrade that brings it closer to the Q5, while being lighter as well. They both also have a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Both engines are smooth and refined at highway speeds. The Q3 will feel more maneuverable, especially at city speeds. The ride is supple and well-damped on both cars and quattro all-wheel drive provides a safety net if needed.
“The all-new 2026 Audi Q3 is here in its third-generation, and possibly for the first time ever, it could be one of the most compelling entry-level luxury options.”
– Jared Rosenholtz, Editor-at-Large, CarBuzz
However, the Q5 has a trick up its sleeve. For people who want even more performance from their SUVs, the Q5 can be bulked up to the SQ5, which offers a larger V6 engine and almost 100 more horsepower than the regular Q5. The SQ5 also gets air suspension as standard, though it remains an option for the Q5.
Nevertheless, the power upgrade for the Q3 brings it in line with its competitors, where the last generation felt a bit sluggish. The Q5 and SQ5 gain slightly more power when compared to their previous generation. The Q3 has plenty of performance for day-to-day commutes, and the Q5 will basically feel the same as the added weight cancels out the added horsepower. The SQ5 is the performance king in this comparison, and will feel noticeably more potent, with a minor hit to fuel efficiency. However, do not expect sports-car-like handling or steering feel, as the SQ5 prioritizes practical performance over driving engagement.
Audi Q5 vs Q3 Exterior Comparison
New And Improved For 2026
Both the Q3 and Q5 have now received their exterior makeovers. For this year, they both feature new grille designs, updates to the front and rear bumpers and streamlined trims. They both also feature Audi’s new logos front and back along with its new LED light signatures that can be customized. However, the Q3 does not get adaptive headlights like its European counterpart.
The Q3 has increased in size when compared to its previous generation. It is now longer, taller and slightly wider. The Q5 is longer than its last generation, but retains the same height and width.
Audi Q5 vs. Q3 Dimensions
Model
Q5/SQ5
Q3
Length
185.7 inches
178.4 inches
Width
74.8 inches
73.2 inches
Height
65.7 inches
64.1 inches
Wheelbase
111 inches
105.1 inches
The new Q3 is only available in one trim for this year. As standard, you get LED lights front and back, 18-inch tires, a panoramic sunroof, three-zone automatic climate control, heated leather front seats, etc. You can also opt for several additional packages that add features such as:
- SONOS sound system with the Infotainment package
- Head-up display and OLED taillights with the Technology package
- Adaptive cruise control and heated steering wheel with the Driver Assistance package.
- Black exterior trim and roof rails with the Black optic package.
Related
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It may be entry-level, but the feature list (and experience) is anything but.
The Q5 comes in three trims for this year.
- Premium trim with 18-inch tires, panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, etc.
- Premium Plus trim with 19-inch tires, B&O Sound system with 3D sound, a top view camera, heated steering wheel with hands-on detection, etc.
- Prestige trim with adaptive air suspension, parking assist with remote functionality, a 10-9-inch passenger display, ventilated front sport seats, etc.
The SQ5 comes in the same three trims and makes the Q5 more aggressive with revised bumpers, larger air intakes, quad exhausts and darker exterior elements.
2026 Q3 vs Q5 Interior Comparison
More Screens With These Revamped Interiors
Along with the exterior, the cabins also got an update with these models. The Q3 now features prominent 11.9-inch and 12.8-inch displays to create a driver’ focused cockpit running Audi’s MMI interface. The gear lever has been moved to a stalk on the steering wheel to free up some space in the central console. The layout is minimal with more touch-based controls instead of physical buttons. Lower down, the quality does deteriorate and you find rougher plastics. Behind the front seats, the second row is more cramped due to the shorter wheelbase.
Audi Q3 vs. Q5 Size & Interior Dimensions
Model
Q3
Q5/SQ5
Rear Shoulder Room
55.1 inches
55.9 inches
Rear Leg Room
36.1 inches
38 inches
Trunk Volume
25-29 cu-ft
27.6 cu-ft
The Q5 interior takes the same basic layout of the Q3 and elevates it with premium materials and more technology. You get a larger 14.5-inch central infotainment display. You also get an option to add a third screen for the passenger with the top of the line Prestige trim. The new Q5’s interior is a mix of leather, fabric and metal with gloss black touch surfaces. While the rear seats are not the most spacious in its class, it is better than the Q3 and roomy enough for adults for long trips.
The cargo capacity takes a hit when compared to the last generation. This is mainly due to the mild hybrid system. That space increases to 56.9 cu-ft with the rear seats folded down. The SQ5 takes the Q5s interior and adds sporty touches such as sportier seats with stronger bolstering, a sportier steering wheel and SQ5 badging.
Related
2026 Audi Q5 PHEV Gets Two Power Levels And More Range Than Ever
Audi is giving its mid-sized PHEV a big boost in range, but not much else.
Q5 vs Q3 Price Comparison
The Cost Of More Space
2026 Audi Q3 from the rear in greenAudi
The 2026 Audi Q3 starts at $43,700 in the one and only trim available. The optional packages are priced between $1,000 and $1,400 each, depending upon the spec. That is an almost $3,000 increase when compared to last year. However, you also get more tech, a stronger engine and three years of scheduled maintenance included from this year.
2026 Audi Q5 SportbackAudi
When we compare that to the new Q5, the 2026 model starts from $52,800 with the highest Prestige trim starting from $60,700. That is almost a $7,400 jump when compared to the last model. Much like the Q3, you do get more tech, better performance and a redesigned platform. The 2026 SQ5 starts at $65,400 excluding destination charges and optional packages.
When compared to the Q3, you get more space at the rear, slightly more power and a more premium interior and exterior. The new Q3 offers almost the entire Q5 experience at a cheaper price. However, if budget isn’t a worry, the Q5 is slightly better at everything, especially if you need the added space.
Which One Is The Better Deal?
The Gap Is Smaller Than Ever
Audi Q5 vs Q3 Sales Figures Over The Last 5 Years
Model
Q5
Q3
2021
69,332
~28,000
2022
68,321
~18,000
2023
73,858
~23,000
2024
56,799
32,090
2025
46,215
23,581
There is a reason the Q5 is Audi’s most popular SUV. It offers a perfected blend of practicality, proportions and premium tech for a luxury SUV. With the new generation, every key aspect of the car has been updated, bringing it up to date with today’s needs in the market. If you look at the price trend graph for last year’s middle trim Q5, they have stabilized and may offer a better deal for someone who may not need the latest tech and is willing to buy used.
The Q3 saw dwindling sales closer to the end of its last generation due to the anticipation of the new model. The new generation brings some much-needed improvements and brings it in line with its competitors.
The Superior Audi SUV In 2026 Is….
There is no clear winner here, as each car fits a different audience. If you live in an urban area and do not require the added space in the rear, the new Q3 is a considerable improvement over last year and brings it much closer to its bigger brother. It does miss a few features, such as adaptive suspension or adaptive LED lights. It gets more tech and features as standard for almost $10,000 cheaper than the Q5.
However, the Q5 has the Q3 beat in terms of rear space, a more premium cabin insulation and a slightly more powerful engine and overall driving experience. If a budget is not your main criteria, the Q5 offers a better Audi SUV experience, despite having a higher starting price.
Sources: Audi, EPA
