SAV Matchup: The 2021 BMW X5 vs 2021 Audi Q8
SAV Matchup: The 2021 BMW X5 vs 2021 Audi Q8
Only One Can Win

CAPACITY
Seating
Doors
ENGINE
Liters/Type
Horsepower (hp)
Torque (lb-ft)
TRANSMISSION
Type
DRIVETRAIN
Type
FUEL CONSUMPTION
Estimated Fuel Economy (city / hwy)
STARTING MSRP
2021 BMW X5
sDrive40i

CAPACITY
5 Adults
4 Doors
ENGINE
3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline 6
335 hp @ 5,500-6,500 rpm
331 lb-ft @ 1,500-5,200 rpm
TRANSMISSION
8-Speed Automatic
DRIVETRAIN
Rear Wheel Drive
FUEL CONSUMPTION
21/26
STARTING MSRP
2021 Audi Q8
55 TFSI® quattro® Tiptronic®

CAPACITY
5 Adults
4 Doors
ENGINE
3.0L Turbocharged V6
336 hp @ 5,000 rpm
369 lb-ft @ 1,370 rpm
TRANSMISSION
8-Speed Automatic
DRIVETRAIN
All Wheel Drive
FUEL CONSUMPTION
18/23
STARTING MSRP
The X5 Has a Challenger
The 2021 BMW X5 flaunts its beauty and flashes capability and performance everywhere it goes. Stylish enough to turn heads and dynamic enough to raise the hairs on the back of your neck, there’s virtually no second choice when it comes to considering which SUV should be sitting in your driveway. However the 2021 Audi Q8 swears it can change your mind with its own style and level of capability.
Flaunting very different curves and powerful performance, the Q8 considers itself a serious contender against the respected 2021 BMW X5. Dive in with us as we put these two in the ring and see which Sports Activity Vehicle comes out on top.
Can’t wait to test drive the winner? (Spoiler Alert: The 2021 X5 wins) Make your way down to Hilton Head BMW and get behind the wheel of the Ultimate Driving Machine.
A Glance at the 2021 Audi Q8
Since the Audi is the challenger in this matchup, we’ll explore the 2021 Q8 first:
Outside the 2021 Audi Q8 takes on a very modern approach with its futuristic design that incorporates smooth surfaces interrupted with deep contrasts. Up front it features a large front grille and standard LED headlights, while subtle yet purposeful curves make up its front fascia. Along its waistline, subtle curvature creates deep contrasts until they lead your eyes to a rear wing LED tail light setup that includes sequential LED turn signals.
Inside, you’ll find pleasantries like heated front seats, a standard power tailgate, tri-zone automatic climate control, and leather seating surfaces. Look up and you’ll enjoy the sun, the moon and the stars thanks to the standard panoramic moonroof while you enjoy the versatility that comes from the 40/20/40 split folding rear seats.
When you step on the gas, you’ll enjoy power that comes from the standard 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine. Delivering an impressive 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, power is sent through a standard 8-speed automatic transmission and sent to all four wheels thanks to the standard Quattro® all wheel drive system.
Standard safety features include helpful driver assistance programs like automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and automatic high beams to help you travel with assurance.
An Overview of the 2021 BMW X5
The 2021 BMW X5 turns heads with its strong presence and commanding style. Outside, it proudly displays its large twin kidney grille and head turning standard LED headlights. With aerodynamics and stunning curvature making the X5 appear as if it is always in motion, headlights stretch back toward the rear, while strong contours grip its waistline. A wide set of brilliant LED tail lights wrap around the rear tailgate, while head turning available 22-inch wheels adorn its feet.
Inside, you’ll find a mecca of luxury and comfort for the whole cabin to enjoy. Standard tri-zone climate ensures that everyone stays comfortable while the cabin features enough space to transport up to seven passengers while being engulfed in luxury. Standard front heated seats ensure that you and your passenger are warm even on the chilliest days, while the standard panoramic moonroof gives you a front row view of the sky above.
Hit the gas and you’ll enjoy power and invigoration that comes from the 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder that generates 335 horsepower and 331lb-ft of torque. Mated to a standard 8-speed automatic transmission power is sent to the rear wheels, and returns an EPA estimated 26mpg on the highway. Opt for the X5 xDrive40i and you’ll enjoy intelligent four wheel drive that brings incredible on and off-road performance.
Ensuring that it includes all the features that not only promote a safer and more aware journey, the 2021 X5 brings assistive features that boost confidence. The standard Active Driving Assistant brings features like automatic emergency braking, Active Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning and even Speed Limit Information.
So Who Won?
While both SUVs are attractive and powerful, the winner of this Audi Q8 vs BMW X5 matchup is the 2021 X5. While both SUVs utilize a 3.0-liter turbocharged 6-cylinder engine, the BMW scoots you to 60mph faster; making it happen in just 5.3 seconds The 2021 BMW X5 is also much more fuel efficient, returning an EPA estimated 26MPG on the highway, compared to the Q8’s EPA estimated 23mpg.
The 2021 X5 is also much cheaper than the Q8, with a starting price of just $59,400, while the 2021 Q8 features a starting price of $69,890. The BMW X5 is more stylish, better performing, and more cost effective than the 2021 Q8, so why would you pick anything else besides the 2021 X5?

Experience the X5 in Person
The 2021 Bmw X5 is an incredible Sports Activity Vehicle that allows you to enjoy the luxury and thrill that comes with a luxury sports sedan but gives you the capabilities of an SUV. Here at Hilton Head BMW, we feature an expansive inventory of BMW X5 models for you to choose from, and we welcome you to explore this luxury SUV for yourself.
Our BMW dealership strives to provide outstanding customer service and tempting lease and finance specials. Make your way down to Hilton Head BMW today and experience the 2021 BMW X5 for yourself.



