A Comparison: INFINITI 2021 QX50 vs. 2021 Audi Q5

A Comparison: INFINITI 2021 QX50 vs. 2021 Audi Q5

The premium SUV market is hugely competitive, and it takes something special for a vehicle to stand out from the upscale crowd. Two of the most eye-catching and successful models currently on sale are the 2021 INFINITI QX50 and the 2021 Audi Q5, both sporting a winning combination of performance, style, and luxury. But which of these highly desirable vehicles is right for you? To help you decide, we’ve provided some key differences and similarities:

• The two vehicles are each powered by a 2.0L turbo gas engine, but QX50 has the edge in both horsepower and torque.
  
• The INFINITI has slightly better fuel economy for highway driving, although the two SUVs are evenly matched in the city. However, the Audi's 70L fuel capacity is higher than the INFINITI's 60L.
  
• The QX50 offers dual infotainment displays for extra versatility, although the Audi's single screen is a little larger.
• Both SUVs seat five in comfort, although the second row is substantially more spacious in the QX50.

PRICE TAG AND TRIM LEVEL

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 is available in six trim levels, all based around the same powertrain. The range starts with the Pure model at $45,495, which provides the most common infotainment and safety technologies including dual touchscreens, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warnings.

Next in line, the Luxe trim starts at $48,495 and adds extras including adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist. The 2021 range tops out with the Sensory model at $57,648 which includes all the optional extras, including in-built navigation and a head-up display. For details of the latest offers and help with choosing the right trim level, drop into our dealership to browse the full QX50 lineup and test drive your favourites.

In contrast, the 2021 Audi Q5 offers five trims covering a much wider price range. The entry-level Komfort trim starts at $46,550, over a thousand dollars more than the equivalent QX50. At the top end, the high-end Technik trim tips the scales at fully $73,100.

THE JOURNEY: RANGE

Both the INFINITI QX50 and the Audi Q5 are based around a powerful 2.0L turbo engine, with the QX50 having an advantage in power output. Its rating of 268 hp gives it a little more zip than the Q5's 261 hp, while there's also a little more torque with 280lb-ft compared to the Audi's 273lb-ft. Both cars offer full- time all-wheel drive, fed in the INFINITI's case by a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and a seven- speed automatic in the Audi's.

The INFINITI's higher engine output doesn't mean it's a thirstier vehicle to drive, however. The QX50 boasts an impressive highway fuel economy rating of just 8.1L / 100km, comfortably ahead of the Audi's 8.4L. The two cars are impressive city performers as well, sharing a rating of 10.2L / 100km. Considering the amount of power available, both cars are pleasingly frugal with gas, although the QX50's better highway rating gives it the edge.

THE LOOKS: COMFORT

Both SUVs seat up to five passengers in genuine comfort. The Audi has slightly more front row leg room, with 104cm against the INFINITI's 100.6cm, with the QX50 compensating with 104cm of front row headroom compared to the Audi's 102cm. In the second row, the QX50 has a clear leg room advantage, offering 98.3cm in contrast to the Q5's 96cm, making the rear seats a more relaxing option for adult passengers. Both cars offer heated seating as standard, along with premium leather upholstery as an available option.

The two vehicles offer a level of interior technology that befits their premium status. The Audi has a 10.1" infotainment touchscreen as standard, while the INFINITI takes a different approach with dual screens. An 8" model controls infotainment, while below it a 7.5" display is devoted to comfort, safety, and other functions. And lastly, devotees of high-end audio will appreciate the INFINITI's optional 16- speaker Bose sound system.

THE VERDICT: SUMMARY

Either of these cars would make an excellent choice for any buyer in the luxury SUV market, blending powerful performance with upscale interior comfort. However, the INFINITI offers several enticing advantages over the Audi. Its engine provides higher horsepower and torque for a smoother, more confident drive, and it does so while delivering better fuel economy. The INFINITI trims are generally better equipped than the Audi ones at the same price points, offering greater value for money.

Lastly, the dual infotainment displays and optional high-end audio system give the INFINITI QX50 a strong edge in technology terms, making it the overall winner in this premium SUV comparison.