DecodedCarsAudi Q3 vs Audi Q5
2026 Audi Q3 vs 2026 Audi Q5 — two small SUVs compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
The Audi Q3 is more fuel-efficient: 25 vs 24 MPG combined in its best version.
That works out to about $700 a year less in fuel for the Audi Q3 (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
The Audi Q5 is the bigger car, about 8 inches longer.
Across all model years since 2005, the Audi Q3 has had fewer recall campaigns (19 vs 34).
The two cars
The 2026 Audi Q3 is a small SUV offered with a 2.0L 4-cyl turbo engine and all-wheel drive. It measures about 178 inches long and 73 inches wide on a 106-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,942 lb.
The 2026 Audi Q5 is a small SUV offered with a 2.0L 4-cyl turbo engine and all-wheel drive. It measures about 186 inches long and 75 inches wide on a 111-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,343 lb (4dr SUV).
Buying used? The 2023 Q3 and the 2024 Q5 have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2022 Q3 and the 2018 Q5.
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the Audi Q3 if…
- You want something easier to park (8 in shorter)
- You put reliability history first (19 vs 34 recalls since 2005)
Choose the Audi Q5 if…
- You want more room (8 in longer)
Pros & cons of each
2026 Audi Q3
- Lots of standard safety tech4 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
2026 Audi Q5
- Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
Full 2026 Audi Q3 specs →Full 2026 Audi Q5 specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →