Standard Technology and Comfort Features
SUVs are known for convenience, and when it comes to the features that make your life easier, the Audi Q5 stands out. Audi rebuilt the technology stack inside the new Q5 essentially from the ground up, and the table below lines up where new features land across this four-way comparison.
Audi Q5:
Features:
- Auto-adapting drive mode assistant: Standard on Prestige trim
- Panoramic roof: Standard across the SUV lineup for 2026
- Head-up display: Optional, new Technology package
BMW X3:
Features:
- Auto-adapting drive mode assistant: Manual My Modes selection only
- Panoramic roof: Optional fixed panoramic glass roof
- Head-up display: Optional via Live Cockpit Professional
Acura RDX:
Features:
- Auto-adapting drive mode assistant: Manual Integrated Dynamics System modes
- Panoramic roof: Standard, tilt and slide function
- Head-up display: Optional, 10.5-inch display on Advance trims
Mercedes-Benz GLC:
- Auto-adapting drive mode assistant: Manual ECO/COMFORT/SPORT/TERRAIN programs
- Panoramic roof: Optional upgrade in SUV models
- Head-up display: Optional on select trims
The Audi Q5 has a logical screen setup: an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit for the driver, a 14.5-inch MMI® touch display in the center, and an available 10.9-inch MMI passenger display. That last screen matters, because the front passenger can manage route details, media, and trip info while the driver keeps attention forward.
BMW offers iDrive 9 and a Curved Display; Mercedes-Benz uses MBUX voice and touch controls; Acura includes True Touchpad Interface™ and wireless smartphone integration. The Q5 stands apart by giving the cockpit clear zones instead of crowding every task into one command center.
If you’re wondering how this Audi’s system compares to these other luxury SUVs, we’ll cut right to the chase. The MMI® infotainment system was awarded the Best Tech 2026 award for Infotainment from MotorTrend, leading all other brands in this segment.*
Engine Lineups and Towing Numbers Compared
Power and performance may not be the main attraction to SUV driving, but it’s always a draw to luxury vehicles. Let’s see how these four stack up…
Audi Q5:
- Horsepower: 268
- Torque: 295 lb-ft
- 0-60 MPH: 5.8 sec
- Audi Q5 Advantage: Quick sprint, standard quattro
BMW X3 30 xDrive:
- Horsepower: 255
- Torque: 295 lb-ft
- 0-60 MPH: 6.0 sec
- Audi Q5 Advantage:Q5 adds horsepower and speed
Acura RDX SH-AWD:
- Horsepower: 272
- Torque: 280 lb-ft
- 0-60 MPH: 6.4 sec
- Audi Q5 Advantage:Q5 brings stronger torque
Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC
- Horsepower: 255
- Torque: 295 lb-ft
- 0-60 MPH: 6.0 sec
- Audi Q5 Advantage:Q5 adds horsepower with equal torque
The Audi Q5 reaches 60 MPH in 5.8 seconds, edging the published 6.0-second times for the BMW X3 30 xDrive and Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC, while matching their 295 lb-ft torque figure.
The Acura RDX lists 272 horsepower, yet the Q5 counters with stronger torque and quattro traction. Acura also caps the RDX at a single 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired to a 1,500-pound tow rating, leaving little margin for drivers who occasionally hitch a boat or camper.
Audi quattro® and Mercedes 4MATIC® both arrive standard, but only the Q5 lineup lets a single nameplate flex between gas, hybrid, and V6 power depending on the day a driver has planned.
Making the Most Out of Your Luxury SUV
The Q5 has the kind of footprint that feels smart both by Turkey Creek and in tight home garages. It is as short as the GLC in overall length, wider than the GLC, and steadier on paper than the RDX through a longer wheelbase.
Audi Q5:
- Length:185.7 in
- Width: 74.8 in
- Height: 64.9 in
- Wheelbase: 111.0 in
BMW X3 30 xDrive:
- Length:187.2 in
- Width: 75.6 in
- Height: 65.4 in
- Wheelbase: 112.8 in
Acura RDX SH-AWD:
- Length:187.4 in
- Width: 74.8 in
- Height: 65.7 in
- Wheelbase: 108.3 in
Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC:
- Length:185.7 in
- Width: 74.4 in
- Height: 64.6 in
- Wheelbase: 113.1 in
Cabin space stays generous too, with the Q5 SUV tucking 52.0 cubic feet of cargo room behind the front seats once the rear bench folds flat.
FAQs
Does the Audi Q5 have parking assistance technology?
Yes! The new Audi Q5 expands its optional Park Assist Pro with remote functionality, including reverse assist that can steer the vehicle for the last 150 feet when backing into a spot, plus rear emergency brake assist, and a 3D, 360-degree surround-view camera standard on Prestige trim.
Does the Audi Q5 have a built-in dashcam?
Yes! Built directly into the base of the rearview mirror, the Audi dashcam ties into the vehicle's own systems rather than running as a separate gadget stuck to the windshield.
It captures 4K resolution video with HDR processing for clarity in low light, and an event function automatically saves a 30-second window before and after a sudden stop or impact. Recordings stay on an owner-supplied SD card, with nothing sent off the vehicle, so drivers control their own footage entirely.
What ownership perks come with the Audi Q5?
Where Audi pulls ahead is in ownership cost over time. Every new Audi Q5 leaving our lot carries Audi Signature Care, scheduled maintenance covering the first three years or 30,000 miles of ownership, included in the price of the vehicle.
Test Drive an Audi Q5 Today!
The BMW X3, Acura RDX, and Mercedes-Benz GLC each bring a recognizable luxury badge, but the Audi Q5 makes the strongest case. Contact Audi Knoxville to schedule a test drive near Knoxville, Farragut, and Oak Ridge, TN.
*Source: Audi