Audi Q5 vs Toyota bZ

The 2026 Toyota bZ was offered in XLE and Limited trims, with options for single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) or dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD), and two battery sizes. Models with the larger battery were priced higher but provided enhanced power, performance, and range, with prices ranging from $36,495 to $46,895, including the destination charge. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, which was standard on the Limited trim. This upgrade cost $3,000, transforming the XLE into the XLE Plus. Additional options included Heavy Metal paint, carpeted floor mats, a carpeted cargo mat, door sill protectors, and wheel locks, bringing the MSRP to $40,468. The restyled 2026 bZ appeared more appealing with body-color trim, although some colors retained the black overfender trim. Inside, the dashboard and center console were redesigned for a cleaner look, with a 14-inch center touchscreen and integrated climate control. However, the digital driver display was criticized for its placement and readability.

The 2026 Audi Q5 maintained a clean, classic exterior design, distinguishing itself from other Audi models with its unique front styling. The test car's District Green paint, paired with the S Line Black Optic Package, was striking, though the grille's honeycomb design was less impressive up close. The rear bumper's honeycomb texture looked better but still seemed cheap. The Q5's interior was a mix of offensive and tasteful elements, with well-sculpted seats and a four-spoke steering wheel. However, the abundance of shiny black plastic and disjointed screens detracted from the overall experience. The instrument panel was unimpressive, with limited customization options. Despite these drawbacks, the Q5 offered a comfortable ride, with standard features like heated front seats, leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a choice between a single electric motor with a 57.7-kWh battery pack, delivering 165 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 74.7-kWh battery, providing 224 hp with unchanged torque. The EPA-estimated range varied from 236 to 314 miles, depending on the configuration. Dual-motor models with the 74.7-kWh battery produced 338 hp, with 198 lb-ft in front and 125 at the back. The bZ's recharging capabilities included compatibility with Tesla Superchargers and a CCS adapter for various charging stations. Efficiency tests showed favorable results, with the XLE Plus averaging 4.5 miles per kWh in Eco mode. However, the bZ's handling on winding roads was not ideal, with issues like front wheelspin and lifeless steering.

The 2026 Audi Q5 featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, producing 268 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Audi's quattro AWD and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission were standard, though the transmission's performance was better suited for the SQ5's turbocharged V6. The Q5 offered rock-solid stability, a quiet cabin, and a comfortable ride, with light steering and a capable suspension. The Prestige trim included air springs, though they did not significantly improve ride quality. The Q5's fuel economy was competitive, with EPA ratings of 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined.

The 2026 Toyota bZ, built on a skateboard-style EV platform, offered 8.1 inches of ground clearance, making it easy to enter and exit. Both front seats featured standard height adjustment, with eight-way power adjustment for added comfort. The bZ lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage options, including a large bin under the center armrest and a sizable tray beneath the center console. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed plenty of legroom, though foot space was tight. The bZ provided 27.7 cubic feet of cargo space, with an underfloor storage well for extra room.

The 2026 Audi Q5 offered average headroom and legroom for the compact SUV class, with 27.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 56.9 cubic feet when folded. The rear seats manually reclined and were split 40/20/40. The Q5's standard panoramic sunroof was expansive and did not impede headroom. Towing capacity was impressive at 4,400 pounds. Standard features included heated eight-way power front seats, leather upholstery, and a power tilt/telescope steering column. However, the Q5's climate controls were integrated into the touchscreen, causing delays in adjustments.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came with a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The driver display was criticized for its placement and readability, while the infotainment system was generally easy to use, despite lacking a home screen for simultaneous data panels. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with various connected service plans available. The Drive Connect feature powered the native navigation system and the Intelligent Assistant voice assistant, which performed well in tests.

The 2026 Audi Q5 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen and an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster, with a third 10.9-inch touchscreen on Prestige trims. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Google built-in apps. The Bang & Olufsen stereo provided excellent sound quality. The Q5's technology included real-time depictions of road and traffic conditions, as well as the Park Assist Pro feature, which allowed for remote parking using the key fob. Audi Connect Care offered remote start, stolen vehicle tracking, and smartphone connectivity for 10 years.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which included features like high-beam assist, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist provided subtle braking and steering inputs for added safety. The Limited trim offered additional features like Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park Assist. However, the bZ's adaptive cruise control response was inconsistent, and the driver monitoring system was overly sensitive. The IIHS gave the bZ's front-crash avoidance tech a Good rating, but the headlights received a Poor rating.

The 2026 Audi Q5 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA for the 2025 model, with a four-star rating for rollover resistance. The IIHS awarded the Q5 its highest Top Safety Pick+ award. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Premium Plus trim added features like forward cross-traffic alert and lane-keep assist, while rear emergency braking was available on the Prestige.