Premium crossovers in Russia are becoming more and more popular every year; they are valued for their high level of quality, comfort and versatility. Cars in this segment are perfectly adapted to Russian climatic and road conditions; they are not as bulky as real SUVs and are ideal for use both in the city and outside the asphalt. These qualities inherent in cars have led to great demand for them; according to statistics, SUVs (crossovers and SUVs) accounted for more than 65% of total sales over the past year.
Russians have a special love for German car brands, in particular, representatives of the “Big Three” - Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz - are in considerable demand. Due to many years of fierce competition, brands have reached incredible heights in the automotive industry and have long been associated with quality, reliability, comfort and safety. On the Russian market, among premium cars in the SUV segment, the Bavarian brands Audi and BMW are among the top five best-selling. When choosing a premium crossover, many consider model options from these particular brands, and today we will compare the similar and at the same time very different cars Audi Q5 and BMW X3 of the 2019 model year, since both cars have recently appeared in a new light and can be put on the same level for comparison . At the same time, the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 cars did not receive such impressive demand as their “big brothers” Q7 and X5, but in general they sell well and are also worthy of attention - these models will be discussed further.
Technical features of the models
With each change of generations of car models, the degree of confrontation between brands heats up. Both cars, the Audi Q5 and the BMW X3, are being improved to meet modern requirements; they are well equipped and their technical characteristics are at a high level, corresponding to belonging to the premium class of cars.
The new Audi Q5 crossover, now assembled for international export in Mexico at a new automobile plant, unlike the previous generation cars, is built on the MLB Evo platform with a front double-wishbone and rear multi-link suspension; older Audi models from A4 to Q7 are also based on it. For additional money, the car gets sports or air suspension, shock absorbers with the ability to adjust the stiffness in accordance with external conditions. Features of the platform used by Audi are the longitudinal placement of the engine and generous use of aluminum, due to which the weight of the car is reduced by approximately 100 kg and varies from 1795 to 1955 kg depending on the modification. All-wheel drive is implemented through the Quattro Ultra system with two release clutches, which connects it silently and imperceptibly to the motorist. At the same time, the Quattro all-wheel drive with a Torsen self-locking center differential remained with the three-liter diesel engine.
Like all modern crossovers from the automaker BMW, the X-Third in the G01 body is based on the modular CLAR platform with a front double-joint suspension and a rear five-link. The platform is the automaker’s own development and involves a longitudinal arrangement of the engine, as well as a very generous use of high-strength steel and aluminum, which has reduced the weight of the car by 60-80 kg compared to the previous version of the car model. The new chassis made the BMW X3 crossover even more maneuverable and comfortable, and the anti-roll bar and aluminum swivel bearings of the front struts provided the car with excellent stability and controllability. A package with adaptive shock absorbers that adjust to the driving mode and road is also available. The xDrive all-wheel drive system allows the crossover to confidently move both on paved city streets and on loose surfaces.
Appearance
Whichever crossover you take, Audi Q5 or BMW X3, each of them in the new generation is more like its older brother, both externally and in terms of technical characteristics. Both premium models, despite the loss in weight, have noticeably increased in size.
Thus, the appearance of the Audi Q5 is implemented in the spirit of the Q7, and in general the features of the car repeat the corporate style of Audi, which makes the car even more similar to other representatives of the automaker’s model range. As you can see, the automaker, in principle, is in no hurry to redesign the car’s exterior design and updates its models very restrainedly. The expressive chrome radiator grille located in the front part of the body of the new Audi Q5 model is the same as that of its counterparts, although some differences in the appearance of the car are still present. The central stripes are located horizontally, and not vertically, as in some other models, in addition, the new product is equipped with a narrow LED head optics with smooth edges. The lower and side air intakes with built-in fog lights are well designed; the body is also attractive with numerous reliefs, including the luggage compartment, a line going to the stern, an increased diameter of the wheel arches and long brake lights.
The external transformations of the BMW X3 crossover are also not the most extensive. Without changing traditions, the models retained the same recognizable features, but now the appearance of the BMW X3 shows even more power and charisma. The new product pleases with the number of embossed additions; in front there are the signature large “nostrils” of the radiator grille with decorative chrome trim, as well as a powerful bumper with several sections of air intakes and narrow ones. Updated optics add to the car's predatory appearance, but the profile has changed insignificantly, while the X3 model is distinguished by raised lines and powerful wheel arches. The appearance of the rear of the model has become more aggressive - a massive bumper, large angular optics and exhaust pipes on both sides, reminiscent of the off-road nature of the crossover. In general, the new BMW X3 corresponds to modern trends and looks very good, the car looks especially attractive in the M body kit.
Both competitors, the Audi Q5 and BMW X3, offer a wide range of body colors, and for an additional fee the car can be painted in a unique color.
Salon and trunk
The interior design of the car is made in the traditional style of each of the brands without unnecessary pathos, but at a fairly high level corresponding to the class of cars. In terms of functional interior equipment, both options are very adequately equipped and offer a wide range of options.
The updated model of the Audi Q5 crossover inside, at first glance, looks too simple, but upon further examination it is noticeable how all the elements are thought out. In fact, Audi has implemented high quality materials used in interior design and convenient placement of necessary functions. The car systems are controlled via a touch display on the front panel. Comfortable trips are ensured, including lateral support with the option of adjusting the position of the front seats, heating and ventilation. Car passengers on the back seat won't get bored either; they have the ability to adjust the microclimate and use multimedia - monitors are integrated into the headrests. Longitudinal adjustment of the rear seats is also available. Their transformation allows you to increase the volume of the luggage compartment of the Audi Q5 crossover from 550 to 1550 liters, which is very convenient for transporting bulk cargo.
The interior decoration of the stylish BMW X3 is also excellent. The interior of the new product is quite spacious and comfortable; although it is not full of luxury and elegance, it is made of high-quality finishing materials to maintain the premium level of the model. The driver's interaction with the car's controls is well thought out and fits perfectly with the overall ambiance and the new BMW iDrive infotainment environment. The only point that is not at all impressive is the absence in the basic configuration of the Apple CarPlay system, which is installed by default in many models of cars of this class.
The BMW crossover offers no less comfortable conditions than the Audi, while providing a little more space for second-row passengers. The rear sofa consists of three sections, each with the ability to adjust its tilt. The luggage compartment volume of the BMW X3 with the seats folded is 1600 liters - impressive for a crossover; with the seats up it drops to 550 liters, which is still quite a lot. In general, when compared with the trunk of an Audi Q5, the difference is insignificant.
Engines and transmissions
The engines of cars with the new generation of models have become more powerful. If we compare the units installed on the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 crossovers, then only BMW can boast of the variety of available options for the Russian market; in the case of Audi, you don’t have to choose.
The mid-size crossover Q5 is offered in Russia with only one installation - a 2-liter gasoline engine with a capacity of 249 horses (peak torque is 370 Nm), paired with a 7-speed robotic gearbox and all-wheel drive that redistributes traction to the rear axle using a controlled multi-plate clutch.
In other markets, the Audi Q5 is available in a greater variety of modifications with several turbodiesels and a more powerful gasoline engine. In such trim levels, an 8-speed automatic transmission is also available in conjunction with the engines, and all-wheel drive is complemented by a Torsen clutch.
Unlike Audi cars, the updated Bavarian crossover BMW X3 offers a diverse range of engines, consisting of gasoline and diesel engines.
Gasoline engines:
- The XDrive20i is a four-cylinder 2-liter engine that produces 184 horses and a torque of 290 Nm.
- The XDrive30i is a 2-liter four-cylinder unit equipped with a turbocharging system that produces 249 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque.
- The M40i is equipped with a 3-liter inline six-cylinder engine capable of producing 360 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque transmitted to all wheels.
- The XDrive20d is equipped with a 2-liter diesel engine with 190 horses and 400 Nm.
- XDrive30d is a 3-liter engine producing 249 hp. s., torque – 620 Nm.
- The M40d comes with a 3-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine producing 326 horsepower. With. and 680 Nm.
The BMW X3 engines are paired with an 8-speed Steptrinic automatic transmission with the XDrive all-wheel drive system. The sporty M modification of the premium crossover features not only the most powerful engine, but also adaptive shock absorbers, as well as a more active suspension.
Dynamics and fuel consumption
New generation cars have become not only more powerful, but also more dynamic than previous models. Both premium crossovers, the Audi Q5 and the BMW X3, demonstrate excellent dynamics that match the frisky character of the bolivars.
The Audi Q5 with a two-liter engine, complemented by two turbochargers, accelerates to hundreds in 6.3 seconds and reaches a speed of up to 250 km/h (under forced limitation). Gasoline consumption in the combined cycle is 6.8 liters.
The dynamics of acceleration to 100 km/h in a BMW X3 with gasoline units ranges from 8.3 to 4.8 seconds; car engines consume fuel significantly more, on average 10 liters in a mixed rhythm, but taking into account the power of the engines, this consumption is acceptable. All BMW X3 units include a switchable auto start and stop option to save fuel when the engine is idling. Diesel engines accelerate the crossover to hundreds in 8 to 4.9 seconds and consume an average of 6 liters of fuel.
Handling and maneuverability
The noble crossover Audi Q5 demonstrates perfectly balanced driving characteristics and stable behavior on the road, yet still offering a more measured ride, while the BMW X3 is much faster than its competitor and is quite suitable for lovers of aggressive driving, providing a complete sense of control on the road.
The off-road characteristics of both models do not imply going on serious off-road conditions; urban crossovers are not designed in principle for taking mud baths, and it is unlikely that the owner of such a car would even risk stirring up mud, or even more so wading through fords, having paid more than three million rubles for the car. At the same time, the BMW concern allows the X-3 to go off-road, prudently leaving it with a good ground clearance of 208 mm; moreover, the automaker claims that this is one of the privileges of the updated model.
The Audi Q5 has a ground clearance of 204 mm, while other off-road characteristics are more modest. When comparing the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 models, we also note that in terms of acoustic comfort, the premium crossover from Ingolstadt clearly outperforms its rival.
Security systems and other assistants
Both models are quite well equipped, as befits premium segment cars in accordance with modern requirements. The Audi Q5 crossover is equipped with a number of, as well as other assistants. Depending on the model configuration, the vehicle is equipped with the following features:
- Adaptive cruise control.
- Central locking with remote control.
- Unintentional movement warning system.
- Blind spot monitoring.
- Lane control.
- Parking assistant.
- All-round cameras.
- Climate control.
- Era-Glonass system.
- Start the engine with a button.
And these are by no means all the options that the new Audi Q5 2019 model year is equipped with. The competing car, the BMW X3, also has a decent level of equipment. The crossover offers the following features (equipment differs depending on the configuration):
- Adaptive cruise control.
- Lane control.
- Assistance system when driving in dense traffic.
- Collision avoidance.
- Automatic traction control system.
- Blind spot monitoring.
- Dynamic Brake Control System.
- Climate control.
- Anti-lock braking system with automatic brake pad drying.
- Start the engine with a button and many other useful options.
Maintenance cost
Any, even the most reliable car requires attention and for trouble-free operation, vehicle maintenance is carried out in accordance with the car manufacturer’s regulations.
Audi models must be serviced every 15,000 km. Considering the level of the brand and the need to use high-quality consumables, you will have to spend money on car care. The most expensive will be the fourth MOT, while the cost of services and consumables for the Audi Q5 depends on the configuration and on average will be about 14,000 rubles for a technical inspection with the replacement of consumables; if systems and assemblies fail, additional investments will be required, and considerable ones at that.
In the case of the BMW X3 crossover, it needs to be serviced every 10,000 km. mileage, regarding the cost of maintenance and replacement of necessary materials, the picture is the same - the price depends on the configuration of the model and on average will be about 10-12,000 rubles. So, taking into account the frequency of car inspections, it will be more profitable to purchase an Audi Q5, but the need for maintenance and replacement of consumables is also influenced by the operating conditions of the car.
Price of all configurations
The premium crossover Audi Q5 2019 model year in a new body is presented in four trim levels. The price of the model (excluding discounts and offers from dealers) starts from 3,270,000 rubles and will be higher depending on the choice of car equipment.
The BMW X3 crossover offers an even greater variety of options; the Bavarian has 14 trim levels in its arsenal. Prices are also provided without discounts and special offers from dealers.
Which car should you prefer?
Many motorists, hoping to buy a crossover in this price segment, consider BMW X3 and Audi Q5 cars, but are hesitant about which of these models to choose. In the updated versions of premium crossovers, automakers improved the characteristics of power units and equipment, and also managed to reduce weight, while the dimensions of both models were increased. Cars have become more powerful and dynamic, but when making a choice, everyone is more guided by their own preferences.
The BMW X3 crossover impresses with its practicality and excellent handling, and is pleased with the large number of engine options for the model, while the luxurious Audi Q5 attracts with its comfort, quality of finish and assembly, as well as the level of basic equipment, so that each of the cars will be a worthy choice in different situations.
An article about the Audi Q5 and BMW X3: comparison of technical characteristics, internal contents, driving characteristics, equipment and price tags. At the end of the article there is a video of a comparative test drive of the BMW X3 and Audi Q5.
The content of the article:
The Audi Q5 and BMW X3 are deservedly considered trendsetters in the class of premium mid-size crossovers.
In the fall of 2016, Audi officially presented the second generation of the Q5, and six months later, BMW presented the third generation of the X3, after which the confrontation between models reached a completely different level.
However, potential buyers who were faced with a difficult choice “suffered” the most. That is why we decided to empirically find out which of the cars deserves the title of leader, and which is destined to be catching up.
Exterior appearance of Audi Q5 and BMW X3
The change of generations benefited both models - they not only increased their external respectability, but also became somewhat larger, getting as close as possible to their “big brothers” in the form of the BMW X5 and Audi Q7.
The X3's appearance is made without any revelations, and its appearance successfully exploits the signature values of the Bavarian brand. On the face are menacing head optics, large “nostrils” of the radiator grille and a monumental bumper with several sections of air intakes and narrow stripes of foglights.
The assembled and generally dynamic profile flaunts sculpted sidewalls, a long hood, powerful wheel arches and a soaring window line.
The rear of the crossover is decorated with stylish side lights and a powerful bumper with a pair of exhaust system “trunks”.
As already noted, the appearance of the Q5 is made in the style of the Q7, and the similarity is so strong that the first one can easily be mistaken for a smaller copy of the second.
The frowning “face” demonstrates faceted head optics, a stylish hexagonal false radiator grille and a powerful bumper.
The profile shows blown wheel arches and a sloping roof, while the rear is represented by sophisticated side lights and a strict bumper with two disguised exhaust pipes.
The external dimensions of the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 are as follows:
| Characteristics | BMW X3 | Audi Q5 |
| Length, mm | 4716 | 4663 |
| Width, mm | 1897 | 1893 |
| Height, mm | 1676 | 1659 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2820 | 2819 |
Both cars offer a wide range of body colors. In addition, for a significant surcharge, you can paint the car in an exclusive color.
Since judging tastes is a thankless task, let everyone decide for themselves whose appearance from the presented duet appeals to him more. We will say that both cars look stylish, dynamic and modern.
Interior design of Audi Q5 vs BMW X3
The interior decoration of the crossovers is made in the style traditional for each of the brands, however, in both cases, the “history” of minimalism and the highest possible ergonomics is played out in the cabin.
The workplace in the Q5 greets the driver with high-quality digital instrumentation and a stylish multifunction steering wheel. On the central dashboard, the manufacturer has placed a free-standing 8.4” media system monitor, under which there is a minimalist climate control unit.
The front occupants are offered comfortable seats, while the rear occupants are offered a fairly spacious sofa, where, due to the high-mounted transmission tunnel, only two people can sit in maximum comfort.
The BMW X5 sports a plump multifunction steering wheel and a spectacular dashboard that can change graphics depending on the selected driving mode.
In the central part of the dashboard, the manufacturer installed a towering 10.2” screen for the multimedia center, and just below – a music and climate control unit. The central dashboard is traditionally turned slightly towards the “pilot”, which makes the use of the systems located on it more convenient.
Front passengers are offered seats no less comfortable than in Audi, but the rear sofa offers a little more free space. The rear sofa of the “Bavarian” has three sections, each of which can be adjusted for tilt, but in the Q5 the user can adjust the rear sofa longitudinally.
The trunk volume in the crossover from Ingolstadt is 550-610 liters in a five-seater configuration and 1550 liters in a two-seater interior layout. At the same time, the volume of the BMW luggage compartment is 550 or 1600 liters, while the Bavarian’s is somewhat more spacious and easier to use.
The quality of finishing materials fully corresponds to the status of the cars, however, it is worth recognizing that Audi’s materials look and feel more noble, and the build quality is not much, but still higher.
In the photo: BMW X3 engine
The Audi Q5 in Russia is offered with only one power plant, which is a 2-liter TFSI turbo-petrol engine, generating 249 horsepower and a peak torque of 370 Nm.
It is paired with a 7-speed robot and the quattro all-wheel drive system, which allows you to reach the first hundred in 6.3 seconds. and accelerate to a maximum of 237 km/h. Combined fuel consumption is 6.8 l/100 km.
Unlike Audi, the BMW engine line is represented by 4 engines:
- 2-liter xDrive20d diesel engine generating 190 hp. With. and 400 Nm of torque, capable of accelerating the crossover from zero to hundreds in 8 seconds. and reach a maximum of 213 km/h. The combined fuel consumption is 5.1 liters.
- 3-liter xDrive30d diesel engine producing 265 hp. With. and maximum 620 Nm of torque. This is enough for the car to cover the first hundred in 5.8 seconds. and reached a peak speed of 240 km/h. “Appetite” in mixed mode is 6 l/100 km.
- A 2-liter xDrive30i petrol power unit producing 249 hp. and 350 Nm of thrust. With it, the crossover is capable of reaching 240 km/h, covering the first hundred in 6.3 seconds. The combined consumption is stated at 7.6 liters.
- top-end 3-liter 360-horsepower M40i gasoline engine, allowing you to reach 100 km per hour in 4.8 seconds. and reach a maximum speed of 250 km/h, consuming an average of about 8.9 liters for every 100 km of travel.
Ride quality of Audi Q5 vs BMW X3
Fans of fast and aggressive driving will prefer the BMW X3, which gives the driver a feeling of complete control over the road situation.
At the same time, the Audi Q5 allows for a more measured ride, while the car remains as predictable and stable as possible. However, while driving an Audi, the driver cannot leave the feeling that he does not control the car, but the car controls him.
In terms of off-road capabilities, the BMW is a step ahead, with larger approach/departure angles and a slightly higher ride height - 208 mm versus 204 mm.
The level of acoustic comfort in the cabin deserves special attention, where the winner is the crossover from Ingolstadt.
Equipment and price tag of Audi Q5 and BMW X3
Pictured: Audi Q5 interior
The minimum cost of the Audi Q5 starts at 3.27 million rubles, for which the buyer receives:
- electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors;
- self-dimming interior mirror;
- climate control;
- immobilizer;
- central locking;
- electric luggage compartment lid;
- MMI radio plus system, represented by a 7-inch monitor, 10 speakers and a subwoofer;
- Era-Glonass system;
- assistant to prevent spontaneous movement;
- Cruise control;
- parking assistant;
- Audi Drive Select system;
- all-round disc brakes;
- front + side airbags;
- start-stop system, etc.
- servotronic;
- start-stop function;
- ABS, CBC, DTC and DBC systems;
- LED foglights;
- 18-inch “skating rinks”;
- climate control;
- multifunction steering wheel;
- audio system with 6 speakers + media complex with 6.5” monitor;
- engine start system with a button;
- Cruise control;
- front seat heating system, etc.
Conclusion
Both cars have their own unique character and are designed for completely different consumers. However, our favorite in this confrontation was the Audi Q5, since this crossover boasts higher-quality finishing materials, better assembly, a quieter interior and a better level of equipment, provided the opponents are the same price.
Video of a comparative test drive of the BMW X3 and Audi Q5:
This year the car received an update, in which the Bavarians improved minor flaws and updated the electronic base for comfort. The body also received an update to keep up with the latest fashions. The radiator grille, reminiscent of “nostrils”, stands out as the main element. Following the grille, the headlights received a new shape and LED backlighting. From the rear, the car has acquired a new bumper, which adds massiveness to the car. It is noticeable that the body received some elements from, but their presentation on this model is on a completely different level. The characteristics of the body have changed slightly, now the length is 4.657 meters and the width is 1.881 m, the wheelbase has not changed its dimensions - 2.810 m.
It’s simply impossible to say anything bad about the car’s interior, no matter how hard you try. The designers put all their efforts into achieving comfort. The steering wheel is “stuffed” with keys for controlling the car’s systems, there are a lot of them, but it’s easy to figure out. The instrument panel is standard: tachometer, speedometer and a bright display of on-board computer information. To the right of the steering wheel, the touch display, with an updated processor and operating system, is very “smart”; it takes 1-2 seconds to process any information.
The company offers two options for gasoline engines:
- The first variant comes standard with sDrive20i technology. Rear-wheel drive, 4-cylinder, volume 2 liters, power 180 horsepower. In total, this gives an acceleration of 8 seconds to 100 km/h, a speed of 210 km/h and a consumption of 10 liters in mixed mode.
- The second “richer” option is xDrive 28i. Still the same 2 liters, but the power is already 245 “horses”, it accelerates to “hundreds” in 6.5 seconds, max. The speed is km/h, and the consumption is 12 liters per 100 km.
The first thing that is easily noticeable is that it is simple and comfortable. External changes to the body include the radiator grille, which has become longer and changed to a trapezoidal shape. The headlights have also changed following the grille; the correct shape and zoning of different bulbs look presentable.
The interior has undergone a “major renovation” this year. The seats are comfortable and soft and completely adapt to the body of the driver or passenger. The quality of the plastic has not changed, the same high level, but there are more colors. There are fewer control keys, both on the steering wheel and on the central panel, but this does not mean that the functionality has decreased. On the contrary, the key now performs more functions, making it easier to configure all systems in the car. You can't do without a touch screen in a car of this class. The operating system is convenient and simple, you can figure it out in just 5 minutes.
As standard, the engine received the marking, a real monster. It has 2 turboheaters at its disposal, which at peak produce 313 horsepower with a volume of 3 liters, and it reaches a speed of 100 km/h in 5 seconds. There are modifications marked TFSI. The power here is not the same, but 225 “horses” is quite enough for this car, and the economical consumption of 7.6 liters is a nice addition.
Conclusion
Both companies did their best. There is simply nothing to complain about; each system works comfortably. It is very difficult to choose a single winner from these “guys”. When choosing, the external design and small exclusive “amenities” from each company will most likely play a role, but personal preferences will play a significant role.
We were ready for the rivals to be equally strong in all disciplines, but the Audi Q5 unexpectedly took the lead in terms of points. Since the differences between crossovers are largely conceptual in nature, and the final assessment is ultimately determined by the nuances, we can say that Ingolstadt simply made a very well-balanced car. In fact, BMW and Volvo are no worse - they just each promote their own value system. But if the XC60 definitely charmed us – first of all, with its design and interior trim, the X3 left us with a slight feeling of annoyance: after all, the Bavarians could have made the car more interesting and fresher. And this is just a consolidation of the material covered.Audi Q5
good, and although the new generation had to wait quite a long time, it was worth it: the German crossover turned out to be almost free of flaws. In its favor is a well-thought-out interior with a comfortable second row, a smart trunk and ample possibilities for its transformation, as well as a well-tuned chassis that combines a decent ride and slightly bland, but absolutely logical handling. And the main disadvantage of the “Q-5” is the lack of choice of power unit: diesel engines are not delivered to Russia, and there is only one gasoline engine (not counting the sports version, but that’s another story).
BMW X3
I wasn’t surprised – and this is precisely the most surprising quality of the third-generation crossover. And yet, compared to its rivals, it does not look pale at all, because the car is, in fact, excellent. The X-3's assets include interesting handling, a comfortable interior with impeccable ergonomics, as well as an advanced multimedia system that features a well-organized interface and wide functionality. I wasn’t very impressed with the trunk, but I was pleased with the opportunity to choose a power unit: different gasoline and diesel engines - for every taste and budget.
Volvo XC60
Although it lost on points to Audi, it still deserved the Audience Award. By and large, this is just a slightly smaller and in some ways even more successful copy of the flagship crossover XC90 with all its high technologies. The most important argument in favor of the Swedish car will definitely be the interior: in terms of design and finishing, it has no equal in its class. Versions with air suspension allow you to raise the body to a significant height, and for some this can play an important role in choosing a “sixty”. In addition, Volvo pleases with its choice of power units. Nice car!
Audi Q5
The most affordable “Q5” will cost 3.05 million rubles – this is the price of the basic version with a 2.0 TFSI engine with 249 horsepower, a 7-speed DSG “robot” and all-wheel drive. You can’t call such a car poor, but it still lacks premium gloss. So you will have to fork out for options, of which there are a great many. Before you know it, the price will increase by half a million; and if you don’t waste time on trifles, you can easily add one and a half lemmas over the base. Actually, the configuration is the only opportunity to unleash your imagination when configuring the Audi: the Q5 is not sold in Russia with other engines. Unless, of course, you count the sports version of the SQ5 with a 354-horsepower V6 turbo, for which they ask from 4.38 million. The warranty for the Q5 is 4 years or 120 thousand km, with no mileage restrictions for the first two years. Service interval – 15,000 km.BMW X3
The Bavarian crossover has the widest selection of power units. The 2-liter petrol turbo engine with a capacity of 184 horsepower, which is equipped with the xDrive 20i modification, will cost less than others - from 2.95 million rubles. Will it not be enough? Well, then take a closer look at the more powerful xDrive 30i for 3.27 million: here the 2-liter inline-four already produces 249 horsepower. There is also a 190-horsepower diesel xDrive 20d of the same volume: 3.04 million - and it’s yours. And for 3.6 million you can get a 3-liter turbodiesel xDrive 30d (249 horsepower): this “X” combines hurricane dynamics and moderate fuel consumption. The top version is the petrol “almost Emka” – the X3 M40i with a 360-horsepower turbocharged “six”. The warranty on the X3 is limited to two years, but is not limited to mileage, and the maintenance interval is 15,000 km.Volvo XC60
Not all sixties are sold in Russia, but the choice is nevertheless quite decent: two petrol and two diesel turbo engines - all with the same volume of 2 liters, but differ in output. The basic version is the petrol T5 with a 249-horsepower engine - such a “Ksyusha” will cost 2,925,000 rubles. Diesel D4 (190 hp) is only 70,000 more expensive, but noticeably more economical and also more interesting in terms of taxes. The more powerful diesel D5 (235 horsepower) is estimated at RUB 3,184,000. And at the top is the petrol T6, which is equipped with a 320-horsepower engine with combined supercharging (turbo plus compressor). It's interesting that such a car is 99,000 rubles cheaper than the D5, but from a tax point of view this XC60 will be ruinous. The warranty on Volvo cars is 3 years or 100,000 km, and the service interval is as much as 20,000 km.Four-wheel drive
All three crossovers are stated as all-wheel drive, but their all-wheel drive is implemented differently. The Audi Q5 has acquired a new quattro ultra transmission, in which, in addition to the clutch package between the gearbox and the driveshaft, there is an additional cam clutch in the section of the rear axle. When the front wheels slip, all this stuff closes and the torque is sent to the rear axle.In a BMW with a longitudinal power unit, the transmission of traction to the front axle is controlled by an electronically controlled clutch located in the transfer case. Moreover, in normal driving modes, torque is distributed between the front and rear wheels in a ratio of 40:60 - therefore, the X3 has a rear-wheel drive behavior. And in the initially front-wheel drive Volvo, traction is transferred to the rear wheels by a Haldex coupling. This is the fifth generation of multi-plate clutch. It is controlled electronically, but the actuator itself is hydraulic - the clutch pack is compressed using an annular piston.
The great conflict continues. Three famous German companies continue racing's leadership in the automotive market. Since their founding, Mercedes (part of the DaimlerAG group), BMW and Audi (currently part of the Volkswagen Group) have been fighting fiercely for the right to be called the best in Germany. Sometimes it seems that they are less interested in world domination in the automotive industry than in the fact of superiority over their fellow countrymen.
Currently, motorists from Bavaria Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) are in the lead. They are being pursued by manufacturers from Ingolstadt, the Audi company, and Mercedes-Benz is in third place. Recently, the masters from Stuttgart have made a sharp spurt in the sales of cars of their brand. In terms of last year's sales volume, Mercedes surpassed its fellow countrymen and came close to its rivals.
Description of models
All three cars belong to the premium class of compact crossovers.
The first generation of the Audi Q5 has been on the market from 2008 to the present and has enjoyed good popularity. The new generation was presented at the autumn auto show in Paris in 2016. In the appearance of the second version, the family features of the Audi family are easily recognizable. At the same time, the exterior of the car, especially its front part, has changed. I would also like to note the increase in the dimensions of the machine compared to the previous version. Ground clearance is 199 mm, which can be adjusted depending on road conditions using a 60 mm air suspension.
The model is made in a sporty style that is fashionable for current generations of crossovers. The exterior is dominated by dynamism and expression. The new radiator grille is impressive: large, chrome-plated and similar lining for the fog lamp windows. Q 5 is a smaller copy of its older brother Q 7.
New versions of almost all brands follow the example of our fair half - they lose weight. The models in question have also “lost weight” in pursuit of lower fuel consumption and improved speed performance. Particularly worth noting is the AudiQ 5, which has lost about one hundred kilograms due to a “diet” - the introduction of more aluminum alloys and composite materials.
BMW X 3 has been on the automobile market for more than one year. The first generation appeared in 2003. The third generation of the world's popular model is currently entering the fray. As the manufacturers themselves note, this will be the first crossover with a common platform for Bavarian cars. The dimensions of the car, despite the more solid appearance of the X 3, have not changed, the wheelbase is 2810 mm, the ground clearance is 212 mm.
Optical devices have significantly decreased in size, but this does not mean that new light sources, which are dominated by LEDs, will illuminate the road worse. At the stern, the taillights begin to take over part of the tailgate area. The crossover looks stylish. The nuances of the BMW brand are easily recognizable in its appearance. A powerful hood and solid arched openings make the Bavarian “troika” stand out on the road.
According to automotive experts, this is the most elegant car in the Bayerische Motoren Werke AG model line.
The new version of the Mercedes-BenzGLK has changed not only the model itself, but also the name. Based on the new designations of the brand's cars, crossovers of this class are called MercedesGLC. The first generation was released in 2008. Its presentation took place in Detroit, America. In 2012, the world saw a restyled modernization, and with this the crossover with the same name ended its activity three years later. The car enjoyed good popularity, despite the critical statements of experts. This is confirmed by the sales volume of the model: over 540 thousand similar cars have been sold over the entire period.
The changes affected mostly the “front” of the car - the face of the car. Currently, optical instruments of many brands are changing their shape and equipment. The Daimler concern and its Mercedes-Benz division did not ignore this trend. The body contour has become more streamlined and elegant. Thanks to this, the new Mercedes has become impressive and attractive.
Interior
Everything is wonderful in the interiors of the elite crossovers of the German super-troika. Naturally, they are different in their own way: design, design materials, styles. But everyone is united by the desire to create comfortable conditions for passengers and drivers and ensure their safety.
The Audi salon captivates with its technical equipment and high level of sound insulation. According to the management of the concern from Ingolstadt, they have achieved the highest noise reduction coefficient through the use of innovative sound-absorbing materials. The comfortable sports steering wheel is not perfectly round; it is slightly tucked in at the bottom. This form, according to the developers, is more effective for the driver’s movements.
The twelve-inch monitor glows like a bright star in the laconic but expensive environment inside the Ku 5. The luggage compartment volume is very good for a compact class crossover: 550/1550 liters.
The interior of the BMW X 3 is designed in the style of German minimalism: strictly and subdued. There is no variegated design or avant-garde solutions here, but there are mandatory ergonomics and quality finishes. Manufacturers from Munich tried to enliven the interior design by using chrome inserts, but this decision did not bring any liveliness to the atmosphere. The bright ray, again, is the display of the multimedia system, which is convenient for reading informative messages. You will be pleased with the trunk, which can accommodate up to 1,600 liters of cargo.
The interior design of the Mercedes GLS is distinguished by its sophisticated style. Expensive wood-look inserts and high-quality materials are reminiscent of the comfortable furnishings of a home office, thereby distinguishing the interior of this brand from the interiors of opponents' cars. Perhaps you can find fault with the location of the eight-inch display, which “sticks out” like a TV on the dashboard. As for the rest: a variety of options, the quality of all elements of the interior interior is at the highest level.
Summary
Cool design, legendary brands, quality and reliability - this is how you can characterize the Mercedes-BensGLC, BMWX 3 and AudiQ 5 crossovers. Their price corresponds to the class - from three million rubles in the initial configuration. But this is the case when you don’t mind the money for the purchase...
