2021 Honda CR-V vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights and a prominent Audi Singleframe grille, emphasizing width with horizontal elements. The body showcased crisp character lines, and the rear was marked by bold, large taillights. The Q5's overall appearance was classy and modern, with exceptional fit and finish. Inside, the Q5 continued this theme with a modern, uncluttered design. The interior boasted high-quality materials, including real wood and metal, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen positioned for optimal driver visibility. The second row was well-appointed with standard leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V had a more conventional appearance, similar to many other compact crossovers. While it had a few distinguishing features like the grille and some chrome accents, it wasn't a vehicle chosen for its exterior looks. The CR-V was available in seven colours, though many were shades of grey, black, or white. Inside, the CR-V offered a modern look with angular seats and a choice of materials depending on the trim level. While it didn't stand out in terms of design, it was functional and comfortable, with a focus on practicality over aesthetics.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with an additional 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque from a 14.1-kWh battery, resulting in a total output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup provided impressive acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds. The Q5 PHEV offered a fuel efficiency of 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 km combined, with a gasoline-only mode rated at 8.8 litres per 100 km. The drivetrain featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with Quattro AWD, offering various driving modes for efficiency and performance. Handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, on the other hand, was not designed for high-performance driving. It featured a 1.5-litre turbo four-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower, achieving 100 km/h in about 8 seconds. The CR-V's continuously variable transmission (CVT) provided smooth acceleration but lacked engagement compared to competitors with conventional transmissions. The CR-V came standard with FWD, with AWD available on higher trims. Its suspension setup offered decent handling and ride quality, typical for the class.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV offered a well-balanced interior space, with 710 litres of cargo space behind the second row and up to 1,503 litres with the seats folded. The second row provided ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and optional ventilation. The interior design was uncluttered, with smartly laid-out storage options.

The 2021 Honda CR-V prioritized functionality, offering more than 100 litres of interior volume compared to the Toyota RAV4. It provided 1,065 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Access to the cargo area varied by trim, with options for manual, power, or hands-free tailgate operation. Roof rails were standard on most trims, enhancing its practicality for carrying additional gear.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi’s MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster. The system offered customization and a futuristic feel, enhanced by LED ambient lighting. A Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system with 19 speakers was standard, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto.

The 2021 Honda CR-V came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, supporting Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Audio systems varied by trim, with the Touring trim offering a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. Charging ports were abundant, with USB and 12-volt outlets throughout the cabin. The Touring trim also included a wireless phone charger.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the gasoline model received top ratings except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, ABS with brake assist, electronic stability control, and various driver-assistance features like Audi Pre Sense and adaptive cruise control.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. It featured the Honda Sensing system, standard across all trims, which included a multi-angle rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and more. The only feature not standard on the base trim was blind spot monitoring.