bmw x5 vs audi q7
Enthusiast

2021 BMW X5 vs Audi Q7: Front and Center SUVs

Here at Headlights, we love a good race to the finish line. The 2021 BMW X5 vs Audi Q7 is bound to bring some healthy contention.

These two vehicles are undoubtedly upscale—not to mention macho where it matters. However, they’re not one in the same. Here’s a rundown of the SUVs’ exterior, interior, and power.

Exteriors to die for: BMW X5 vs Audi Q7 on the outside

bmw x5 vs audi q7

Both of these SUVs are equipped with LED headlights, fog lamps, daytime running lights, integrated turn signal mirrors and power sunroofs. 

The Audi has a slightly longer wheelbase and length. Features like aluminum roof rails help you pack up and go without sacrificing style.

The X5 is marginally taller and even features digital entry, which you can use with your iPhone.

A look from within

On the inside, the Q7 is both upscale and ergonomic across all three rows. Power controls help raise or lower every seat. A 10.1-inch touchscreen pairs up with a smaller 8.6-inch screen for some serious dual action. A virtual cockpit digital gauge display, in-cabin Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and—of course—an available 23-speaker sound system fill the gap.  

For the X5, strong suits include numerous charging ports, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, rain-sensing windshield wipers and even tailored ambient lighting.

Bring the power (but don’t forget the safety)

For 2021, the Audi Q7 leaves no stone unturned. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert join the list of standard features. Higher trims earn a 360-degree exterior camera system. All the while, a 248-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine (or optional 3.0-liter V6 variant with 335 horses) carries the load.

It should come as no surprise that the make’s quattro all-wheel drivetrain is an award-winning contender, especially when paired with those massive 21-inch tires.

For the BMW X5, the plug-in hybrid model is the real showstopper. A turbocharged 3.0-liter I6 engine pairs up with an electric motor for a total of 389 horsepower. This is in addition to an electric-only driving range of 30 miles.

Key safety in the BMW SUV includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane-departure warning (both of which are standard).

With up to a 7,200-pound towing capacity and a standard xDrive all-wheel drivetrain, it seems like the X5 is suited for adventure.

As for what I think, the X5 is quicker—sportier, even—which the Q7 is more suited for safety in all-weather conditions. 

BMW X5 vs Audi Q7 pricing may be a moot point

At the end of the day, both the BMW X5 and Audi Q7 would hurt most people’s wallets. However, this luxury SUV does have its niche. The X5 starts at $59,400 on the low end while the Q7 hits the mark at $54,950. Regardless of these prices, we all know the money is in the upgrades—and in the BMW X5 vs Audi Q7 debate, both of these rides have plenty of add-ons to offer. 

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Rachel Curry
"Hey! My name's Rachel Curry and I'm a full-time writer who loves telling the world's stories as much as hanging with my dogs (and that's saying a lot). A University of Delaware graduate, I've traveled extensively, living everywhere from Ireland to Thailand. Bylines include Matador Network and Delaware Today."

    2 Comments

    1. A macho SUV? I second that. Both of these are not your soccer mom SUVs. Im voting for the Audi on this one.

    2. Don’t forget about the X7, which offers a third row like the Q7.

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