2019 BMW X3
The BMW X3, a key player in the luxury compact SUV space, is another well-rounded option. Like the Q5, the X3 seats five passengers, offers a choice of robust engines, and features distinctive German styling. It’s known for being on the expensive side for the class, but then, so is the Q5. In fact, the X3 starts at a couple thousand dollars less, so that might be a deciding factor if budget is a concern for you.
That said, the X3 starts out with rear-wheel drive, while the Q5 comes standard with all-wheel drive. Interior quality in the X3 also falls a little short of class standards. It’s still pretty nice, but the base model's cabin looks and feels a little more basic than those in some other luxury crossovers.
2018 Audi Q3
If the Audi Q5 is a little too big or too pricey for your taste, check out the Audi Q3. It’s a midpack performer in our luxury subcompact SUV rankings, and it isn’t as well-rounded as the Q5. Still, if you’re willing to compromise a bit on size and performance to get to the right price point, it might be the way to go.
The Q3 is offered with just one engine, which has adequate power around the city but can feel like it’s struggling on the highway. Potential buyers should be aware that they’ll need to pay extra for all-wheel drive in the Q3, unlike the Q5. However, the cabin quality and ride comfort meet Audi’s reputation for excellence in these areas. It’s hard to recommend the Q3 in the context of its rivals within the luxury subcompact SUV class, but as a cheaper and smaller alternative to the Q5, it’s worth a look.
2019 Audi Q7
On the other hand, if you need to scale up from the Q5, Audi has the Q7 ready and waiting. The Q7 is among the top contenders in our luxury midsize SUV class and has the added benefit of seating for seven across three rows. The third row is a tight fit except for kids, but that’s pretty standard for a crossover at this size and price point.
Otherwise, the Q7 will impress with powerful engine options, agile handling, a posh cabin, and standard all-wheel drive. The Audi Q7 starts at about $10,000 more than its compact stablemate, so make sure you need that extra row before you go shopping.
2019 BMW X5
The BMW X5 is another good alternative to the Audi Q5, particularly if you need three rows of seating or more space overall. The X5 is redesigned for 2019 and lands in the upper half of our luxury midsize SUV rankings. That said, be prepared to pay for the capability, as it starts at nearly $20,000 more than the base Q5, and the third row is an optional extra.
The X5 offers a choice of great powertrains, including a V8, and all-wheel drive comes standard. The cabin is attractive and has a good layout, while the seats are comfortable even for long trips. The technology features are easy to use, and numerous safety features come standard. The X5 is a good choice for a luxury midsize SUV, but since the price tag is a substantial premium over the Audi Q5, make sure it’s worth it for you.
2019 Acura RDX
The redesigned Acura RDX is the winner of our 2019 Best Luxury Compact SUV for the Money award. With engaging performance, a spacious cabin, and a generous list of features, this is a really easy vehicle to like.
There’s just one engine available in the RDX, but it’s an efficient turbocharged four-cylinder with 272 horsepower, plenty for most driving scenarios, and all-wheel drive is available. Athletic handling makes the RDX easy yet enjoyable to drive, and all five passengers get comfortable and supportive seating.
2019 Volvo XC60
If interior quality and comfort is your priority in shopping for your next luxury compact SUV, the Volvo XC60 should be on your short list, since its cabin is easily one of the nicest out there. The XC60 sits five passengers on standard synthetic leather upholstery, and all-wheel drive models now include heated front seats.
The list of standard safety features is generous and innovative. This Volvo also offers a choice of three powertrains, ranging from a turbocharged 250-horsepower four-cylinder to a 400-horsepower plug-in hybrid system consisting of a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder paired with an electric motor.
2019 Lexus RX 350
The Lexus RX 350, winner of our 2019 Best Luxury 2-Row SUV for the Money award, is another great alternative to the Audi Q5. This luxury midsize SUV is also available with a third row of seating for up to seven passengers, so it’s an option worth considering if you need more space but need to stay around the Q5’s price point.
The RX 350 has a competent 295-horsepower V6 engine, but if you prefer something more fuel-efficient, the RX Hybrid is also worth a look. Synthetic leather upholstery comes standard, and the seats are comfortable and supportive. A decent list of standard tech and safety features makes this Lexus a great value.
2018 Porsche Macan
If you want a luxury compact SUV that performs like a sports car, take a look at the Porsche Macan. It’s actually pretty similar to the Q5 in terms of look and feel but it’s more expensive, has fewer standard features, and can’t carry as much cargo.
For some buyers, though, the overall experience of driving a Porsche instead of an Audi might be worth the sacrifice. Every Macan features standard all-wheel drive and there’s a choice of four engines, starting with a turbocharged four-cylinder rated for 252 horsepower and topping out at a 400-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6. The Macan's acceleration is fantastic, and its handling will make you forget you’re in an SUV.
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC
The Mercedes GLC lands near the top of our luxury compact SUV rankings. It’s a little less expensive out of the box than the Q5 and boasts a spacious and stylish cabin, lots of standard upscale features, and a smooth and comfortable ride.
This Mercedes-Benz isn’t as athletic as the Q5 in terms of handling, but its performance is still satisfying overall, with the choice of four gasoline engines plus a plug-in hybrid option. The infotainment system is a notable drawback, as it can take some time to feel comfortable using it. For the most functionality, avoid the so-called coupe models, which sacrifice cargo space in favor of a sloping roofline – and a higher price tag.
2019 Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is the only vehicle on this list that doesn’t fall into the luxury category, but it’s well worth a look on its own merits, and even more so when you consider that its base price is about $18,000 less than the Audi Q5's.
The CX-5 currently holds the top spot in our compact SUV rankings and is a finalist for our 2019 Best Compact SUV for the Money award. The cabin is more upscale than you might expect, and even though you won’t find the same horsepower ratings as you’ll see in the luxury class, the driving experience is a lot of fun. The CX-5 can be equipped with a four-cylinder engine good for 187 horsepower, or a turbo-four with 227 horsepower. Modest, sure, but this Mazda features athletic handling that will make you smile even if you’re used to more powerful vehicles.
More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report
Learn more about the Audi Q5 and its competitors by reading our full reviews for each of the models mentioned here.
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10 Alternatives to the 2019 Audi Q5
- 2019 BMW X3
- 2018 Audi Q3
- 2019 Audi Q7
- 2019 BMW X5
- 2019 Acura RDX
- 2019 Volvo XC60
- 2019 Lexus RX 350
- 2018 Porsche Macan
- 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC
- 2019 Mazda CX-5
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Before You Buy the Q5, Check Out These Compelling Competitors
It’s hard to deny the appeal of the Audi Q5. It’s peppy, perky, and well-equipped, and it was a finalist for both our Best Luxury Compact SUV for the Money and Best Luxury Compact SUV for Families awards. In short, it’s about as well-rounded as anyone could want from a vehicle in this class, with excellent performance, comfort, and features. As such, it’s currently the second-place vehicle in our rankings for this class.
But if you’re shopping for a new luxury SUV, you don’t necessarily care if the Audi Q5 is the right vehicle for everyone else. You just need to know if it’s the right vehicle for you. We’re going to take a look at 10 of the Q5’s most notable competitors so you can get an idea of the vehicles that should be on your radar. It may turn out that the Q5 is actually the best choice for you, or you might find that one of these rivals suits your needs a bit better. With this list, you’ll be better informed when it comes time to head out to dealerships.
As you're reading, bear in mind that our rankings are constantly updated as new data and professional reviews become available, so the scores you see mentioned in this slideshow may not match those elsewhere on our site.