Compare Audi Q3 vs BMW X3 – The Audi Q3 and BMW X3 are two successful vehicles that are popular with consumers who enjoy a high-end SUV with plenty of interior space.
Every car in the market stands out for its sublime design and performance as an ideal crossover for travel.
When you’re in the market for a new car, you’ve probably heard of the Audi Q3 or the BMW X3 but you’re not sure which one to choose.
As you’ll see here, both are great cars, but there are differences that make them better in different situations.
In this article, we will take a look at the comparison of the Audi Q3 vs BMW X3 and find out which one is better overall. Let’s get started!
Difference between Audi Q3 and BMW X3
The Audi Q3 has an entry-level price of $32,900 but its closest competitor, the BMW X3, costs more at $37,900. The base version of both cars includes a good amount of features that cost extra in other SUVs.
However, for just under $5k more you can get into an Audi Q3 with almost as many features as a comparably equipped BMW M-Performance model.
It’s worth noting that although some optional features are different between models on both vehicles it is possible to get pretty much all of them in either car.
Read also: Audi Q5 VS Mazda CX 5: Which One is Better?
Overview for the Audi Q3
It looks like it’s a bigger sibling and is the Audi Q3 smallest SUV, but offers pretty much the same experience.
It looks expensive from the outside, and the cabin is lined with many of the same fine materials and technological features you’d find on the more expensive Q5, Q7, and Q8 crossovers.
The rear seat space isn’t very big, of course, and there are some subtle cost savings to keep costs down.
On the other hand, the Q3 offers a slightly younger feel and its chassis gives it a more agile feel than Audi’s larger SUVs and therefore on par with big competitors like the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class.
Is the q5 bigger than the q3?
Audi Q5 and Audi Q3 are both compact luxury SUVs produced by the German automaker Audi. The two models share a platform, but they look very different on either side of that fact.
Despite their visual differences, they come in similar configurations and have relatively similar performance.
The 2022 Audi Q5 is more popular than its sibling, as well as more expensive. But how do these two models compare with each other when it comes to size and pricing? Let’s find out.
BMW X3
While the BMW X3 brings not only luxury and functionality but also a sports sedan from BMW’s past to incorporate driving pleasure into the equation.
Its balanced chassis and well-coordinated steering make it an excellent companion on winding roads, and the two available turbo drivetrains – either four or six cylinders – deliver plenty of power.
The X3 cabin is comfortable and stylish with a conservative design. It’s a great place to spend some time, although some competitors, including the Mercedes-Benz GLC class and Volvo XC60, beat it in style.
BMW has built a lot of technology into the X3, including two digital dashboard displays and various driver assistance functions.
Overall, the X3 performs well, but it’s the nimble handling and bold turbo engine that makes it one of our favorite BMWs.
Which car is the best Audi Q3 vs BMW X3?
The Audi Q3 received high safety ratings from IIHS Safety Ratings for the side impact, the moderate front overlap test, the light front overlap test, the rear impact protection, and the roof strength test.
The vehicle increases driver confidence with advanced safety features that come as standard, including traction control, integrated turn signal mirrors, auto-leveling headlights, all-wheel ABS, and traction control.
Rearview mirrors, front and rear parking sensors, and heated mirrors are also available to reduce the risk of collisions.
While the BMW X3 is equipped with safety features, including adaptive brake lights, Park Assist Plus, and active cruise control with stop-and-go.
Other standard safety features are brake assist, blind-spot monitoring, traction control, integrated turn signal mirror, traffic warning, lane departure warning, brake assist, daytime running lights, and all-wheel disc brakes.
The car did well in its crash tests but was not good for the included child safety anchor.
Read also: BMW 4 Series 2021 Review: Interior, Engine, and Full Specs
Engine and Transmission
The Audi Q3 is powered by a four-cylinder turbo engine with 184 or 228 hp, both with eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive as standard.
As we got behind the wheel of an Audi Q3 with its two more powerful engines, we found that the engines were delivering ample power, but our test vehicle wasn’t as fast as some of its competitors, and we noticed a delay between our right footing actions.
On the other hand, the transmission shifts smoothly and sporty in normal operation, the chassis thanks to the most severe road unevenness. The simple direct control gives the Q3 a tight feel.
This small SUV also moves wonderfully like its big brother when sliding on winding roads.
While the BMW X3 now comes with a 248 hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder with turbocharging under the hood, the rear-wheel-drive sDrive30i and all-wheel-drive xDrive30i offer enough power to comfortably handle almost any traffic situation, but they are hardly encouraging.
The 382 PS turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine produces almost raw power and outperforms all versions except the Macan Turbo and the most powerful Mercedes-AMG GLC by 4.4 seconds from zero to 100 km/h. The X3 still feels more competent than some current BMW sedans.
It was fun to drive and ready to turn corners better than expected, though it didn’t quite offer the Tiger’s athleticism. Ride quality is perfectly balanced with enough power for an inspired ride without creating a rough ride on bumpy road surfaces.
It’s called Dynamic Damper Control and expands on the xDrive30i with Comfort, Sport, and Eco Pro driving modes. The adaptive M suspension available for the M40i lowers the suspension by 0.4 inches.
Interior
High-quality materials and sharp design are found in the cabin of the new Audi Q3. Its eye-catching shape creates a comfortable atmosphere that makes it easy for the driver and front passenger to relax.
Drivers can use the car’s self-dimming rearview mirror, Bose surrounds sound system, MMI infotainment system, LED headlights and taillights, Audi Side Assist, USB port, and Bluetooth.
The dashboard also contains buttons and controls which, due to their simple setup, are easy to use and access while driving without being distracted. 16.7 cubic feet of cargo space is also available when the rear seats are used and expands to over 48 cubic feet when the seats are folded.
While the interior of the BMW X3 is classy and sophisticated, it lacks standard luxury features. The car is equipped with ventilated front seats, but this has an additional cost and is optional.
Three-zone automatic climate control and a touchscreen infotainment system are now standard. Inside, the controls are boring and don’t add any style. Unfortunately, the lights don’t even compare to the interior of the Audi Q3.
Infotainment and connectivity
Audi Q3 is equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto MMI information systems, with an 8.8-inch touch screen. A large 10.1-inch touchscreen is available with similar content.
We found the interface appealing and mostly easy to use due to the large icons and the haptic feedback. However, a low position on the dashboard can be confusing.
The top options include the SiriusXM satellite radio, wireless charging, and a Bang & Olufsen audio system with 680 watts and 15 speakers.
While the iDrive interface from BMW offers everything a modern luxury car infotainment system should have. A 10.3-inch infotainment screen comes as standard and offers navigation on the dashboard, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen is optional. Bluetooth phone connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a USB port are standard, but all other infotainment functions are offered as optional add-ons.
If you want to combine two devices at the same time, a second USB port is just as optional as the wireless smartphone charging pad.
Exterior
The beautiful exterior of the Audi Q3 attracts attention with its bold taillights and features reminiscent of the various models of the car. The exterior looks sharp and neat without compromising on the brand’s high-end look.
The grille sits low and is paired with narrow headlights and hefty door frames and bumpers. The LED headlights also complement the exterior and resemble the shimmering jewels that make this vehicle stand out at night.
While the BMW X3 looks intact and stylish, the exterior has not undergone many changes or improvements. Your neighbors may not realize that you are switching to a new BMW because the body, headlights, and grille of the car are the same as their predecessors.
Contact us to find out more about how the Audi Q3 vs BMW X3 goes. We’ll give you more facts and can also arrange a test drive to make sure you can take the car for a spin.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Audi has always been a reliable brand, with quality parts and excellent customer service. The automaker has come a long way since it launched in 1966, establishing itself as one of Germany’s best-known carmakers, and one of Europe’s biggest brands overall.
If you’re comparing Audi and BMW vehicles, though, it’s important to consider more than just reliability. Every manufacturer and model has different levels of quality, meaning you should take all factors into account when comparing two cars that seem pretty similar on paper.
Safety Features and Driver Assistance
A key difference between Audi and BMW is safety features. The Q3 is a Top Safety Pick Plus from IIHS, receiving Good ratings in all of its tests.
It includes multiple driver-assist systems that help to prevent accidents, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
BMW X3 also includes some active safety features, but it lacks a collision warning system; as such, it received only Basic ratings for front crash prevention.
In terms of safety features, there’s no contest here; although both vehicles are safe options on their own, when it comes to crash prevention technology and overall safety scores in crash tests by an independent testing agency like IIHS, you can feel confident choosing an Audi over a BMW.
Read also: Audi Q7 2021 Review: Interior, Price, and Specs
What are the safety features of Audi Q3?
Every Audi Q3 comes standard with a low-speed collision warning and an automatic emergency braking system called Audi Pre-Sense.
Optional equipment includes blind-spot warning, reverse traffic and lane departure warning, and rear-side airbags (a rare feature for any car).
What safety features are standard on BMW X3?
Advanced extended safety comes standard with the BMW X3 with Active Protection System and Active Driving Assistant.
Active safety systems provide automated post-accident assistance to ensure passenger safety, including:
- Seat belt pretension.
- Close windows and sunroofs.
- Activate collision braking.
How many airbags does an Audi Q3?
The Audi Q3 is an entry-level luxury SUV. There are three rows of seats and a total of seven occupants can be carried.
The third row is comfortable for adults but smaller children may find it cramped due to legroom limitations. There are six airbags (dual front, dual side, dual curtain) in a 2022 Audi Q3 including seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters.
Key safety features include stability control with rollover mitigation, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop & go capability, plus three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, child safety locks on all rear doors/passenger doors, optional back-up camera/sonar sensors, and available blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert.
In addition to the hardware, it has six airbags that disable passenger detection, ABS with ESP, an integrated headrest system for all passengers, wheel-selective torque distribution, a traction control system, tire pressure monitoring, and an electronic engine immobilizer.
Conclusion
As we have seen, both cars are great and have a lot of similarities. In fact, they are both really expensive and they have similar safety ratings.
However, when it comes to how practical these cars are, it’s a whole different story. While both cars can carry five passengers in total, only one of them has enough space for luggage and cargo as well.
Based on all that we’ve seen here, we must conclude that BMW is better if you want something practical for your family and friends but Audi is much better if you need something comfortable yet powerful for long road trips with your partner or friends. Either way, if you choose to go, you can’t go wrong.
My Conclusion, f I had to choose between these two vehicles, I’d probably go with an Audi Q3. Overall, these two cars are pretty close in performance.
However, if safety is a top priority for you then you’ll be happy to know that both of these vehicles come equipped with automatic braking systems.
The BMW is slightly faster but it only comes in one trim level whereas there are two different trims for an Audi.
Plus, since my business sells more Audis than any other make of vehicle, it makes sense that I’d be partial toward them.
But at the end of the day, your own experience behind the wheel should always be your first step when choosing which vehicle is right for you.
How To Choose Between Them?
If you’re trying to figure out whether you should go with an Audi Q3 or a BMW X3, it makes sense to evaluate what each one offers.
The first key question to ask is whether you need space for your things; if so, get an SUV. If not, then a compact car may suffice, and there are plenty of options in that category.
Choosing between these two models can be complicated because they offer different things in terms of powertrain, fuel economy, handling, and passenger comfort.
To make your decision easier, think about how much driving you do every day (for example: commuting alone) as well as where most of your trips start or end (for example: at home or work). Those factors will help determine which car best meets your needs.
Which car should I buy?
If you’re in search of a new SUV, you might be looking at either an Audi Q3 or a BMW X3.
Both offer luxuries not available in other SUVs in their class. Here are some things to consider when comparing them.
Pay attention to your intended use as well as your budget before making a final decision.
You can save money by choosing one over another; it just depends on what matters most to you. Here is a comparison of these two cars.
Final Decision
The Aud Q3 is a bit of a letdown in terms of its interior styling. We’re not sure what’s going on with that dash, but overall it doesn’t look as good as we’d expect from an Audi or BMW.
On the other hand, when it comes to technology, quality materials, performance, and efficiency, it’s hard to beat both these cars.
Ultimately, if you’re really into sporty compact SUVs, we say go for what you love (in our case, BMW).
But if the value for money is more important to you than flashy looks or low emissions numbers (you can get either one of these cars in diesel form), go for the Audi.
