C&D Comparison Test: Audi Q5 vs. BMW X3 vs. MB GLK350 vs. Lexus RX 350 vs. Volvo XC60

Car and Driver just did a comparison test of the compact SUV segment. In this test they compared the new Audi Q5 with the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLK350, Lexus RX350, and Volvo XC60.

The rankings are as follows:

1. Audi Q5 3.2 Quattro
2. BMW X3 xDrive30i
3. Volvo XC60 T6 AWD
4. Lexus RX350
5. Mercedes-Benz GLK350 4MATIC

This result marks the second win for the Audi Q5 in a major U.S. car magazine comparison test. The Q5 won by a wide margin against the Mercedes-Benz GLK350, Lexus RX350, and Volvo XC60 in MotorTrend's May comparison test of the same segment.

All of the vehicles have their positives such as great looks (GLK350), creamy ride (RX350), excellent turbo thrust (XC60) and sharp handling (X3.

However, it was the newly launched Audi Q5 that won due to its ability to deliver the total package that buyers are looking for in this segment. The Q5 combines unique styling with strong acceleration, capable handling, excellent grip, good fuel economy, decent cargo space and an interior that is nearly perfect in its execution.


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jsell - 6/22/2009 10:38:15 AM

-1 Boost

The Q5 is a solid offering....but why wasn't the MDX is that comparo?

jsell - 6/22/2009 10:38:38 AM

-1 Boost

sorry....meant the RDX

Bill - 6/22/2009 10:54:50 AM

+4 Boost

"the total package that buyers are looking for in this segment"

How does Car and Driver want to know what people want in this segment? Every vehicle tested here offers a type of package and appeal different people would want.

As usual, Car and Driver finds an excuse to put the BMW product as high up as possible due to "sharp handling". This is probably one of the things people don't really look for in this segment. I am sure each of these cars is fun to drive in their own way, too.

sector - 6/22/2009 11:11:42 AM

0 Boost

Another useless comparo from the "Car and (badgewhore)Driver"

here is the real ranking:

1. Lexus RX350
good: most luxurious, creamy ride with thoughtful control layout.
bad: power outlet placed too low.

2. MB GLK350
good: stylish, nice engine, smart controls, good driver's seat
bad: HVAC placed too low, little noisy, sills put mud on your pants\

3. Audi Q5
good: nicely layout interior, composed handling
bad: heavy steering at low speeds, screen button too low on cockpit

4. Volvo XC60
good: nice exterior styling, responsive turbo, light weight liftgate
bad: worst steering, crashes over broken pavement, noisy

5. BMW X3
good: agile handling, nice window opening in the back
bad: shockingly expensive even for base model, useless rear seat, interior of an econobox

theoptimisticpessimist - 6/22/2009 3:56:19 PM

-1 Boost

Yes you're a perfect resource because you driven alls of these cars.

GermanNut - 6/22/2009 11:17:02 AM

-2 Boost

Another excellent win for the Audi Q5.

Audi really delivered where it counts for this segment. The Q5's sales have been terrific.

LexusKindaGuy12 - 6/22/2009 12:40:10 PM

+4 Boost

ahh yes, the way SUVs are meant to be judged on, steering feel and body roll

MrBratwurst - 6/23/2009 5:29:55 PM

+1 Boost

Wasn't it the C&D that judged 2+ tonnes limousines also by this criteria?

Comfort? Who cares.

GermanNut - 6/22/2009 1:18:01 PM

+1 Boost

When we look at quality of interior and luxury feel, the Audi certainly ranks right up there for first place with the Lexus RX. The BMW X3's spartan and cold interior clearly needs a more luxurious revision to even come close to the luxury feel of the RX and Q5.

When we look at handling and feel, the Audi, while not as fluid as the BMW X3, still handles second-best in this segment.

The Audi's acceleration numbers are one of the best, if not the best in class.

Audi's Q5 also has unique styling with its LED daytime-running headlights and LED tailights combined with a tight, sculpted body.

Better than average fuel economy and very respectable cargo space are the icing on the cake for the Q5, which is clearly the best SUV in class.

_43LE - 6/22/2009 4:58:01 PM

0 Boost

I'm surprised that they chose to compare the RX350 with some of the others here. Doesn't it compare more with the ML from MB and X5 (in size at least)?

trungdq - 6/22/2009 7:36:28 PM

+1 Boost

RX cannot be compared with X5. X5 is bigger, more powerful and has 7 seats.

chewy - 6/22/2009 8:14:37 PM

+2 Boost

Audi got the Q5 spot on for the US market.

clsboy - 6/23/2009 4:43:47 PM

+2 Boost

X3 should be at the bottom of the list.... with a face only a mother can love...