2020 Audi Q7 vs 2019 BMW X5

The 2019 BMW X5 was designed with a focus on delivering a sedan-like driving experience, despite its size and weight. BMW's approach was to prioritize on-road comfort over off-road capabilities, a decision that initially drew criticism but later proved prescient as consumer preferences shifted. The X5 offered a five-passenger layout, with an optional third row that was best suited for occasional use due to limited space. The vehicle was powered by two turbocharged engine options, a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder and a 4.4-litre V8, both paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. The base model came with a comprehensive suite of features, including adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a digital gauge cluster, with numerous optional upgrades available.

In contrast, the 2020 Audi Q7 featured multiple engine options, including a new mild-hybrid turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 for the 55 TFSI model. The Q7's design updates aligned it with the flagship Q8, enhancing its visual appeal. Inside, the Q7 adopted a high-tech dashboard with three digital displays, replacing most physical controls. The cabin, adorned with Okapi Brown leather and natural wood inlays, exuded luxury and sophistication. The Technik trim added features like multi-colour ambient lighting, enhancing the vehicle's upscale feel. Despite its three-row seating, the Q7 was best used as a five-passenger vehicle due to limited third-row space and cargo capacity when all seats were in use.

The 2019 BMW X5 xDrive40i was powered by a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided smooth and consistent power, especially in Sport mode, and was paired with a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission that offered seamless gear changes. The X5's fuel economy was impressive, with estimates of 11.7 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 9.1 on the highway, and 10.5 combined. The xDrive50i variant offered a more powerful twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 engine, producing 456 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, achieving 100 km/h in approximately 4.7 seconds. The X5's ride quality was enhanced by its Cluster Architecture platform and optional air suspension, providing a smooth yet sporty experience.

The 2020 Audi Q7 55 TFSI introduced a new 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine, generating 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This engine was complemented by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, improving fuel efficiency and reducing load on the engine. The Q7's drivetrain, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro AWD, offered various driving modes through Audi Drive Select. The Q7 accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and had a maximum tow rating of nearly 3,500 kilograms. The Technik trim included an adaptive air suspension, allowing for adjustable firmness and height settings. The Q7 excelled in both on-road performance and off-road capability, with its mild-hybrid technology operating seamlessly.

Inside the 2019 BMW X5, the design shifted to aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens for the iDrive infotainment system. While the design was appealing, some materials felt less premium compared to competitors. The seats were somewhat uncomfortable, with limited adjustability and ventilation. However, the X5 offered ample space, with generous head and legroom in the front and second rows. The cargo area provided 960 litres of space, expandable to 2,047 litres with the seats down, and the air suspension facilitated easy loading. The X5 could tow up to 3,000 kilograms when properly equipped.

The 2020 Audi Q7, while offering three rows of seats, was best suited for five passengers due to the cramped third row. With the third row folded, cargo capacity increased from 402 litres to 1,010 litres, and further to 1,970 litres with both rear rows down. The Technik trim's standard features included eight-way power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats, providing comfort for long journeys. The second row offered ample legroom and thigh support, with additional amenities like four-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof. However, interior storage was limited, with the centre console and dashboard screen occupying most available space.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology was a mixed bag. The gesture control and voice recognition systems were inconsistent, and the iDrive interface, while well-designed, required time to master. The driving-assistance features, offering Level 2 autonomy, were problematic at high speeds, with issues like lane wandering and overcorrection. However, the adaptive cruise control and stop-and-start traffic feature worked well. Optional features included Parking Assistant Plus, a night-vision system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Harman Kardon stereo provided excellent sound quality, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins system available for audiophiles.

The 2020 Audi Q7 introduced MMI Touch Response technology, featuring a dual touchscreen setup for accessing the SUV's systems. The system included natural voice recognition, handwriting recognition, and wireless Apple CarPlay. While generally intuitive, the touchscreens were sometimes unresponsive due to dry fingertips. The Technik trim offered a head-up display and a Bose premium sound system, though Audi later replaced it with a Bang & Olufsen system. The voice-recognition technology was effective, simplifying tasks like navigation and climate control adjustments.

The 2019 BMW X5 featured a new brake-by-wire system, providing a nearly natural feel with occasional feedback during braking. It received a four-star rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash tests. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ designation, with top scores in all tests.

The 2020 Audi Q7's HD Matrix LED headlights performed exceptionally well, though the IIHS rated them as "poor" due to glare. The Q7 included advanced driving-assistance systems, such as Emergency Assist and Turn Assist, though the Adaptive Cruise Assist and Active Lane Assist were less satisfactory. The IIHS gave the Q7 high ratings, with the headlight assessment being the only drawback preventing a Top Safety Pick+ award.