Audi
Q8
Owner report available
BMW
X5
Owner report available
Audi Q8 vs BMW X5
The short answer
Based on available data, the BMW X5 comes out ahead of the Audi Q8 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Q8
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The gasoline-powered Q8 (2019-2024) receives praise for its striking coupe-SUV styling, high-quality and comfortable interior, spacious cabin, and refined driving dynamics. However, it is heavily criticized for significant reliability concerns, particularly with major powertrain components leading to costly out-of-warranty repairs, and for very poor resale value.
Best version to buy
For the gasoline Q8/SQ8, the Prestige trim is frequently mentioned as the target for maximizing luxury features. For the performance-oriented SQ8, the Sport Package (including active roll stabilization and a sport rear differential) is specifically highlighted as a desirable option for enhanced driving dynamics.
Known issues
- **Gasoline Q8 (2019-2024):** * Major powertrain failures (water pump/coolant migration) leading to expensive repairs (~$7,500): very frequent. * Poor resale value and rapid depreciation: very frequent.
- **Q8 e-tron (Electric):** * Poor real-world range (approximately 130-180 miles / 209-290 km, significantly less in cold weather): very frequent.
X5
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation, powertrain, and ownership approach. For the current G05 generation (2019+), the inline-six (B58) powertrain is very frequently praised for its performance and noted reliability, with some owners calling it "super reliable" and "the best inline 6 in the world." The driving experience is consistently highlighted as a major strength, described as "performance oriented" with superior ride, handling, and road feel compared to key competitors. However, significant criticism is directed at the plug-in hybrid variant (50e), with one detailed owner report citing a "terrible" experience involving multiple, repeated drivetrain failures and extensive dealership visits.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a single "best" version. Strong, recurrent praise is directed at models equipped with the B58 inline-six engine (e.g., xDrive40i), which is lauded for its reliability and performance.
Known issues
- . For long-term ownership (5-10 years), setting aside a significant fund for maintenance and repairs is considered mandatory. A pre-purchase inspection by a specialist is critical, especially for older or high-mileage examples.
The verdict
The BMW X5 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Audi Q8, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Audi Q8 is worth a closer look instead.
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Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi Q8 or the BMW X5?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Audi Q8 and the BMW X5. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Audi Q8 or the BMW X5?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Audi Q8 is classed as a SUV, the BMW X5 as a SAV, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi Q8 or the BMW X5?
The EPA rates the 2027 Audi Q8 at 19 mpg combined and the 2027 BMW X5 at 26 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi Q8 or the BMW X5?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Audi Q8 than the BMW X5. See the known issues comparison above.