VS
At a Glance
Power
631hp
617hp @ 6000
Torque
627lb-ft
553lb-ft @ 1800
Towing
—
1653lbs
Engine
4.0 L/244cc
4.4 L/268cc
Choosing between the Audi Q8 and the BMW X5 M is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Audi Q8 delivers 631hp while the BMW X5 M produces 617hp @ 6000. Pricing starts at $138,300 for the Q8 and $131,000 for the X5 M. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
631hp
617hp @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft)
627lb-ft
553lb-ft @ 1800
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
4.0 L/244cc
4.4 L/268cc
Cylinders
8
8
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
8
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
14mpg
13mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
20mpg
18mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
22.5gal
21.9gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
197.3in
195in
Width (in)
78.7in
79.3in
Height (in)
66.7in
68.9in
Wheelbase (in)
117.9in
117in
Curb Weight (lbs)
5434lbs
5455lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
—
1653lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
—
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
BMW X5 M
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Q8
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
X5 M
Practicality
X5 M
Pros & Cons
Audi Q8
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
BMW X5 M
Lower starting price ($131,000)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Q8 or X5 M?
The Q8 produces 631hp and 627lb-ft of torque while the X5 M delivers 617hp @ 6000 and 553lb-ft @ 1800 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Q8 and X5 M?
The Q8 starts from $138,300 and the X5 M from $131,000. The X5 M is cheaper by $7,300 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Q8 or X5 M?
The Q8 has a braked towing capacity of not specified and the X5 M can tow 1653lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Q8 or the X5 M?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.