2021 Audi Q3 vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2021 Audi Q3 showcased a bold design with its massive corporate grille, complementing its stout and chunky styling. This design suggested utility and dynamic handling, though it primarily delivered on the latter. Inside, the Q3's cabin mirrored this modern aesthetic, with a dash design that highlighted the center touchscreen. When the interior debuted in 2019, it was a standout, but competitors like Volkswagen had started to catch up. Despite this, the Q3's interior remained modern and refined, though it no longer felt as unique.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer offered a variety of models, including the luxurious King Ranch trim. This version featured exclusive Del Rio leather seating and King Ranch branding, though it shared many visual elements with other trims. The Explorer's design was athletic, with a long hood and floating roof effect. Inside, the King Ranch trim boasted comfort features like massaging front seats and heated second-row captain’s chairs. However, the third-row seat was cramped for adults, and the interior lacked practical storage solutions.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The S-Line trim offered a more powerful version with 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided lively performance, especially in Sport mode, which enhanced throttle response and transmission mapping. The Q3's handling was nimble, offering a comfortable ride without sacrificing engagement.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The base engine was a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. A hybrid option combined a 3.3-liter V6 with electric power for 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque. The top-tier twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine delivered 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, offering robust performance and a satisfying exhaust note. The Explorer excelled in off-road situations and provided a robust driving experience, though it was less fuel-efficient than the hybrid.

The 2021 Audi Q3 offered 48 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 23.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats. While the cargo space was limited, the Q3 compensated with ample passenger space, providing comfortable seating for up to five people, though four would be more comfortable on longer trips.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87.8 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The King Ranch trim featured luxurious seating and climate control options, but the third-row seat was best suited for children. The Explorer's interior lacked practical storage solutions, though it included thoughtful features like built-in cupholders.

The 2021 Audi Q3 featured an 8.8-inch touchscreen with the MMI system, offering standard Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. An upgraded 10.1-inch touchscreen with navigation was available, along with features like wireless charging and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The Audi Virtual Cockpit provided a customizable digital display.

The 2022 Ford Explorer came with the Sync 3 infotainment system, available with either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The King Ranch trim included features like FordPass Connect, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. However, the Sync 3 system showed limitations in voice recognition and navigation, highlighting the need for an upgrade to Sync 4.

The 2021 Audi Q3 included standard safety features like Audi Pre Sense, forward-collision warning, and lane-departure warning. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It came with Ford Co-Pilot360, offering features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though some features required refinement.