Choosing a new luxury SUV can be exciting, but the options can also feel overwhelming, even within the same brand. Audi offers two of the most popular choices in the market: the compact Q5 and the three-row Q7. You might be drawn to the sporty look of the Q5 or need the extra space of the Q7, but the differences go much deeper than size. This guide will break down everything you need to know about these two exceptional SUVs. We’ll compare their performance, interior space, technology, towing, fuel economy, and price to help you understand which one truly fits your lifestyle. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of which Audi SUV is the perfect partner for your daily drives and weekend getaways.

Size and Space: The Most Obvious Difference

The first thing you'll notice when comparing the Q5 and Q7 is their size. This difference matters for passenger space, cargo capacity, and how they feel on the road.

Audi Q5: The Versatile Compact

The Audi Q5 is a compact luxury SUV that seats five people comfortably. Its smaller footprint makes it flexible for all sorts of drivers. The Q5 is easy to maneuver into tight parking spots, handles traffic with ease, and feels quick on its feet, more like a sporty sedan than a hefty SUV.

While the Q5 is compact, it’s still efficient with storage. You get usable cargo space for everyday outings. Need to haul something bigger? The rear seats fold down to make room for furniture, bikes, or gear for a weekend escape. It’s a savvy pick for singles, couples, or families who prioritize agility but still want practicality.

Audi Q7: The Three-Row Family Hauler

The Audi Q7 is a mid-size SUV with three rows, offering seating for up to seven passengers. This is its biggest advantage over the Q5. For larger families or those who carry many passengers, the Q7 stands out. The third row works best for kids on long trips, but adults can also fit there on shorter drives.

With added length and width, the Q7 delivers more space everywhere, including legroom, headroom, and shoulder room are all increased. Cargo capacity is also a standout: even with all rows in use, you have reasonable trunk space; fold the third row flat, and there’s even more. With both rear rows folded, the Q7 transforms into a massive cargo carrier.

Performance and Powertrains: What’s Driving You?

Audi is known for engaging performance, and both the Q5 and Q7 keep driving fun, but their engines are built for different priorities.

Q5 Engine Options

The 2025 Audi Q5 lineup is straightforward and balanced.

  • Standard Turbo Four-Cylinder: Every Q5 comes powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system. This setup makes 268 horsepower, delivering snappy acceleration and good highway passing power. The Q5’s standard 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic keeps shifts quick and smooth.
  • Audi has discontinued the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) for the latest Q5 generation, so it’s now focused entirely on turbocharged gasoline power.

Q7 Engine Choices

The Q7, being larger and heavier, offers more robust engines, including a mild-hybrid system for efficiency and smoothness.

  • Standard Turbo Four-Cylinder: Base Q7 models use a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder with 261 horsepower, paired to an eight-speed automatic and quattro all-wheel drive. This engine gets a 12-volt mild-hybrid system to assist with stop-start and boost efficiency.
  • Turbocharged V6 with Mild Hybrid: The step-up engine is a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, producing 335 horsepower, paired with quattro and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 uses a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, helping smooth out power delivery, improve start-stop operation, and enhance fuel economy.
  • Performance V8 (SQ7): The SQ7 brings true high performance, with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 churning out 500 horsepower. It’s designed for drivers who want a three-row SUV with dramatic acceleration and sports-car character.

All Q7s, regardless of engine, feature Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive for sure-footed traction in any weather.

Interior, Luxury, and Technology

Audi’s cabins are some of the best in the luxury world, and the difference between the Q5 and Q7 mostly comes down to size and a few features.

The Q5’s Modern and Driver-Focused Cabin

Step inside the Q5 and you’ll find a modern, well-crafted space. High-quality materials and tight construction create a classy feel. The dashboard boasts a large, high-definition touchscreen for infotainment. The Audi Virtual Cockpit, a customizable digital gauge display, is standard so you have maps, music, and info right in front of you.

Standard features include leather seats, heated front seating, and a tri-zone climate system. The cabin’s design is logical and uncluttered, making controls easy to reach and use. Even as the entry-level Audi SUV, the Q5’s interior feels refined and special.

The Q7’s Expansive and Luxurious Domain

Getting into the Q7 feels like a step up in size and sophistication. The Q7 is larger, and you feel it in the extra room for passengers. The dashboard features a twin-screen setup in the center console: one for infotainment and another for climate and settings, adding a high-tech look and feel.

Materials are upscale, with options including premium leathers and stylish wood or metal trims. Available features include ventilated front seats, four-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. Massaging seats, however, are not offered on the 2025 Q7 in the U.S. market. Quietness and comfort are top-notch, perfect for cruising long distances or taking on the daily commute with family.

Towing Capacity and Fuel Economy

Luxury SUVs move people and pull toys and trailers, too. Fuel efficiency is also important as these are daily drivers for many buyers.

  • Audi Q7 Towing: For 2025, properly equipped Q7s with the V6 engine can tow up to 7,700 pounds. This gives you the flexibility to tow small boats, utility trailers, or campers. It's an appealing choice for active families.
  • Audi Q5 Towing: The Q5’s towing capacity isn’t as prominent a feature as the Q7's, but it can tow up to 4,400 pounds when properly equipped, enough for small trailers or bike haulers.

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

  • Audi Q5: The 2025 Q5 returns an EPA-estimated 25–26 mpg combined, giving it excellent fuel economy for the luxury segment.
  • Audi Q7: The Q7 achieves 20–22 mpg combined, depending on engine. The four-cylinder variant offers the best numbers, while the V6 trades some economy for extra power and towing capability.

Price and Value: The Bottom Line

Budget always matters, so here’s how the Q5 and Q7 compare financially.

  • Audi Q5 MSRP: The Q5 starts at $46,695. This makes it the accessible entry to the Audi luxury SUV lineup, with great value for what’s offered. Lower ownership costs from better mileage add to its appeal.
  • Audi Q7 MSRP: The Q7 starts at $61,795, which reflects its larger size, extra rows, enhanced towing, and more available tech and luxury. As you choose higher trims and options, the price can climb quickly, but you also get true three-row versatility and top-level Audi features.

Which Audi SUV Is the One for You?

Ultimately, your daily needs and preferences will guide your decision.

You should choose the Audi Q5 if:

  • City driving, maneuverability, and ease of parking are priorities.
  • You transport five or fewer people most of the time.
  • You want strong fuel efficiency for lower running costs.
  • You’d like a lower starting price for a premium, feature-rich SUV.

You should choose the Audi Q7 if:

  • Your crew is larger, up to six or seven, and you need every seat.
  • Maximum cargo room is a must for road trips or big shopping sprees.
  • You plan to tow regularly and want the V6 engine’s power and towing capacity.
  • You want every comfort, tech, and luxury option Audi offers in an SUV for yourself and your passengers.

Both SUVs stand out for their build quality, technology, and engaging drive. To make your choice even easier, test-drive both the Q5 and Q7 at a dealership. Getting behind the wheel is the best way to decide which luxury Audi SUV is the right fit for your lifestyle.