Both the 2027 Audi Q7 and the 2027 BMW X5 are now available to configure online, and while we will need to get behind the wheel of each model to truly discover how they differ from each other, we can already see some interesting features and traits of each model based on their specifications. Â
These two luxury mid-sized SUVs are important models for both manufacturers and have been packed with the latest powertrain and in-car tech as well as a bewildering array of options. We compared the two entry level offerings to see which promises to be the savvier purchase.
Audi Q7 (2027)
Audi
Audi
Audi
After a long nine-year production run, the Q7 has finally been fully redesigned, and this time it is pitched even further upmarket. Gone is the previous entry-level four-cylinder engine, replaced by a 429-hp 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 that delivers vastly superior performance, even compared to the old mid-range V6 model. The exterior is noticeably more modern too, with smoother lines and more aggressively styled LED head and taillight clusters. An eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard fare, and while this base Q7 is the only one on offer for now (a potent SQ7 is also sold but not covered here), it can be had in three different trim levels.
Even in base Premium trim, the Q7 is packed with tech and features. You get as standard, an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch touchscreen, and there is a 12.3-inch front passenger display. A seven-occupant layout is standard, although this can be configured into a six-seater featuring two second-row captain’s chairs. Maximum cargo capacity reaches a decent 78.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded flat. It is a big step up from its predecessor, and may well be a better pick than its newly-released Q9 stablemate, too.
BMW X5 (2027)
BMW
BMW
BMW
BMW’s current fourth-generation X5 has been on sale since 2019, and while it would have certainly been competitive for a  few more years, the fifth-generation ‘Neue Klasse’ model will be replacing it over the next few months. This is no minor redesign, or an evolution of an existing platform, but rather a whole new chapter in BMW’s history, and everything is new or heavily updated.
While there will be a full range of gas, plug-in hybrid and electric models on offer, the new X5 kicks off with the 40 xDrive which is powered by the latest variant of BMW’s B58 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine. Now producing 394-hp and still aided by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, this model comes standard with al-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. A rear-wheel drive (sDrive) variant will join the range soon, as will a 483-hp 50e xDrive and all-electric 570-hp iX5 60 xDrive.
Standard equipment includes a 17.9-inch touchscreen, and a narrow display that runs along the length of the windscreen base. Adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist are standard fare, too, with a whole host of luxury and tech features, like a 14.6-inch passenger display, and 18-speaker Harman Kardon system available as options.
2027 X5 vs 2027 Q7: Price, Performance, and Power
Audi
BMW
| Make and Model | 2027 Audi Q7 | 2027 BMW X5 40 xDrive |
| Engine | 2.9L Twin-Turbo V6 | 3.0L Turbo I6 |
| Horsepower | 429 hp | 394 hp |
| Torque | 442 lb-ft | 428 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| 0–60 mph | 4.8 sec | 5.1 sec |
| Max Towing | 7,700 lbs | 7,710 lbs |
| Base MSRP (Excl. fees and taxes) | $70,900 | $72,100 |
The 2026 Audi Q7 may have been comprehensively outgunned by the 2026 BMW X5, but the 2027 models are far more closely matched, with the Q7 being slightly more powerful and quicker to 60mph. Max towing figures are essentially identical, and while the upcoming $69,800 X5 40 sDrive (RWD) model may undercut the Audi, when you add AWD into the equation, the Audi is $1,200 cheaper. In terms of base pricing, these two are very close, and both can be specced uncomfortably close to $100,000, but budget on $75,000 to $80,000 for a more modestly optioned SUV including taxes and destination charges.
Fuel economy figures haven’t been released yet, but judging by historical figures, Audi  may have a hard time matching the BMW inline-sixes frugality. We can’t make any predictions on these new model’s reliability levels yet, but the current X5 proved to be far more reliable than the Q7 over the past five years. With both models being complete redesigns, only time will tell which one will be more durable.
BMW X5 or Audi Q7?
Prestige
BMW
In all honesty, choosing between the older generation X5 and Q7 wasn’t all that hard. Aside from the lack of a third row, the X5 was faster, more economical, better to drive, and more reliable, too. The 2027 redesigns promise to be far more closely matched. Audi now has a base engine that is more than a match for BMW’s famous B58 in terms of power outputs, and it still offers the added practicality of a third row.
The 2027 BMW X5 should be the sharper drive, and may well be more fuel efficient, too, but based on the data so far, it is pricier, and slightly slower, and you have to step up to the X7 if you need seating for more than five people.
The tech and spec levels are closer than ever between these two, though, and upcoming variants will introduce even more high-tech drivetrains and features. For now, the Audi Q7 looks to be in the lead on paper, but we can’t wait to get behind the wheel of both cars for the final verdict.
About the author
John Tallodi
Senior Editor