Audi Q7 vs. BMW X5: Complete comparison 2026

Audi Q7 represents the benchmark for a spacious and luxurious family SUV, placing maximum emphasis on innovative technology and extraordinary travel comfort. In contrast, the BMW X5, a historical pioneer of the entire premium SUV segment, attracts drivers primarily with its sharper dynamic handling and unmistakable sporty character. In the following detailed comparison of these two advanced German giants, we will analyze in detail which model represents an overall better and more rational choice on the used car market.

When comparing the exterior dimensions of these two premium SUVs – focusing on used models roughly four years old (Audi Q7 4M and BMW X5 G05 generations) – we encounter several key differences that can directly affect your daily life with the vehicle. While both cars belong to the large luxury SUV category, each manufacturer has approached the overall proportions and body construction slightly differently.

Audi Q7 is, at first glance, the larger vehicle, primarily in terms of overall length. At 5,063 mm, it is a significant 141 mm longer than the BMW X5, which measures 4,922 mm. This difference in length means that the Audi can offer a somewhat more generous interior space, which you will appreciate especially if you plan to use the third-row seats or need to transport long items in the boot. A 20 mm longer wheelbase also contributes slightly to better directional stability on motorways and more legroom for rear passengers.

On the other hand, the BMW X5 clearly scores points in width. At a massive 2,004 mm, it surpasses the Audi by 34 mm. This wider stance gives the Munich-based SUV not only a more aggressive and stable appearance on the road but also offers a bit more shoulder room inside the cabin. As for the overall height, both models are almost identical, with the BMW being only a barely noticeable 4 millimetres taller at 1,745 mm.

When making a final decision based on dimensions, it primarily depends on your preferences and the environment in which you will most often be driving. The longer body of the Audi Q7 brings undeniable advantages in total interior volume, but it requires more space and maneuvering room when parallel parking in narrow city streets. The BMW X5, by contrast, benefits from its slightly shorter but overall wider build. Thanks to its shorter length, it is somewhat easier to park, although in modern underground garages and narrow parking spaces, its two-metre width can be a slightly limiting factor for the driver.

When choosing a large luxury SUV roughly four years old, one of the main decision criteria is usually everyday practicality and trunk volume. For cars like the Audi Q7 and BMW X5, it is often assumed they will serve as primary family cars. Prospective buyers logically look for enough space for strollers, bulky sports equipment, or a pile of luggage for long trips. It is in this discipline that the two premium German models differ quite significantly.

The Audi Q7 (4M generation) is the absolute champion of space in its class. In the standard five-seat configuration, it offers a massive basic volume of 865 liters, meaning plenty of room for several extra suitcases without any compromises. The rival BMW X5 (G05 generation) provides 650 liters as standard. Although this difference may seem vast on paper, the BMW's trunk is excellently shaped, and its capacity will still be perfectly sufficient for the vast majority of users for weekend shopping or longer vacations. With the rear seats folded down, the space in the Audi Q7 increases to a staggering 2,050 liters, while the BMW X5 offers a maximum of 1,870 liters.

An important factor for used car buyers from this period is the presence of popular plug-in hybrid powertrains, which take away valuable liters of total volume due to the battery placement under the floor. In the case of the Audi Q7 TFSI e, the basic capacity drops to 650 liters and to 1,835 liters with the seats folded. For its Bavarian rival, the sought-after BMW X5 xDrive45e, the basic trunk space shrinks to exactly 500 liters and the maximum to 1,720 liters. In the plug-in hybrid version, the Q7 thus offers exactly as much basic space as the conventional internal combustion version of the X5.

In terms of overall trunk spaciousness, the Audi Q7 is the clear and uncompromising winner. If you regularly transport bulky loads or need to serve a large family, the representative from Ingolstadt will provide a noticeable reserve and total peace of mind. While the BMW X5 falls slightly short in terms of liters, for average users, its capacity represents an ideal and easily usable standard.

When choosing a large premium SUV, towing capacity is often one of the deciding factors. Whether you plan to tow a heavy caravan for a family holiday or need to transport a boat for the weekend, both the Audi Q7 and BMW X5 are at the absolute top of their class. Both vehicles can tow the maximum legally permitted weight in an ideal configuration; however, when choosing a specific engine on the used car market for vehicles roughly four years old, you will encounter several important differences.

For the Audi Q7 (4M generation, approx. 2020–2023), the standard braked trailer weight for common diesel engines, such as the popular 45 TDI (170 kW) or the more powerful 50 TDI (210 kW), ranges from 2,700 kg to a maximum of 3,500 kg. The lower value usually applies to the base version without the optional towing package, while cars equipped from the factory with an upgraded system can handle the full 3.5 tonnes without a problem. A big advantage of the Audi is that it performs excellently even with plug-in hybrids – the top-of-the-line 60 TFSI e version maintains a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kg despite the heavy batteries.

The BMW X5 (G05 generation, approx. 2020–2023) offers fantastic and very clear values for most of its traditional internal combustion engines. Six-cylinder mainstays like the diesel xDrive30d (210 kW) or the petrol xDrive40i (245 kW) provide a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kg straight from the factory. However, a significant difference arises if you prefer alternative powertrains. For the highly sought-after xDrive45e plug-in hybrid variant and the base four-cylinder diesel xDrive25d, the towing capacity is reduced to 2,700 kg.

In practice, this means that the 2,700 kg value for base or hybrid versions is still perfectly sufficient for a large family caravan, transporting several motorcycles on a trailer, or weekend DIY activities. But if you are looking for certainty and need to transport the heaviest trailers, large yachts, or bulky horse trailers, the reduced capacity could limit you.

Conclusion
From a purely towing capability perspective, both cars do an absolutely flawless job at the 3.5-tonne limit with classic six-cylinder engines. However, if you desire a modern plug-in hybrid and simultaneously need to tow the maximum possible weight, the Audi Q7 is the better candidate, as unlike the hybrid BMW X5, it doesn't have to make compromises.

Towing Capacity Overview (typical used cars approx. 4 years old)

When choosing a luxury SUV from the used car market – typically looking at roughly four-year-old vehicles – engine options are one of the key factors that determine the character of the entire car. Both the Audi Q7 and BMW X5 rely primarily on refined six-cylinder power units, which best suit their massive size and weight. While the Audi Q7 bets on its traditional V6 engines, BMW remains faithful to its legendary inline-six engines. Both brands offer a wide range from economical diesels (such as the extremely popular 50 TDI or xDrive30d models) to extremely powerful petrol engines and plug-in hybrids with the possibility of locally emission-free city driving. In terms of overall reliability and residual value, the used car market is dominated by strong diesel versions, which represent the most logical choice for the vast majority of drivers of heavy family SUVs in terms of long highway journeys and favourable fuel consumption.

Audi Q7 Engine Options (4M Generation, 2020–2023 Models)

Under the hood of nearly new and slightly used Audi Q7 cars from the 4M generation, proven 3.0-litre diesel and petrol V6 engines dominate. These are always paired with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and a smooth eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. The base of the diesel range is the 45 TDI version with 170 kW, however, for a fully loaded vehicle or towing a heavy trailer, the more powerful 50 TDI version with 210 kW and a massive 600 Nm of torque is much more sought after. Both diesel engines use 48V mild-hybrid technology to smooth out operation and reduce consumption. Petrol units from this period are represented by the powerful 55 TFSI version providing 250 kW. For those interested in electrification, the 55 TFSI e and the flagship 60 TFSI e plug-in hybrid models are available, combining a three-litre petrol engine with an electric motor. The result is not only breathtaking system output reaching up to 335 kW but also the ability to cover shorter distances purely on electricity.

BMW X5 Engine Options (G05 Generation, 2019–2023 Models)

The range of engines for the Munich-based BMW X5 (G05 generation) from 2019 to 2023 is slightly more diverse, offering representatives with four, six, and eight cylinders. Power is sent to the road primarily through the smart xDrive all-wheel drive and a lightning-fast eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. The heart of the range and also the most recommended choice on the used car market is the xDrive30d (210 kW) inline-six diesel, which excels with exemplary pull and unrivalled efficiency. For more demanding travellers desiring greater dynamics, the more powerful, twin-turbocharged xDrive40d (250 kW) variant will serve well. Petrol inline-sixes are represented by the excellent xDrive40i (250 kW) model and the extremely popular xDrive45e plug-in hybrid, which, thanks to an unusually large battery, achieved an exceptionally long real-world electric range for its time. Fans of absolute dynamics will find their match with the M50i V8 engine with a roaring 390 kW of power and 750 Nm of torque.

*Interesting fact from the used car market: The special and incredibly potent M50d diesel engine with four turbochargers was only available for the BMW X5 at the beginning of the production cycle of the G05 generation. Its production was prematurely ended in the autumn of 2020, so you will unfortunately no longer come across it in vehicles significantly younger than four years.

Choosing the right engine is key to long-term satisfaction with a premium SUV, and our assessment is based on real-world user experience, dynamics, fuel consumption, and mechanical reliability. Historically, both brands rely primarily on their three-liter diesel six-cylinder engines, which form the absolute backbone of European sales. Interestingly, in the category of roughly four-year-old used cars, both manufacturers fully integrated 48V mild-hybrid systems as part of tightening emission standards. For heavy SUVs, these systems not only slightly reduce real-world fuel consumption but, more importantly, help fill the "turbo lag" at the lowest RPMs and ensure lightning-fast, almost imperceptible operation of the start-stop system. While Audi continues to bet on the traditional V-configuration (V6), BMW sticks to its legendary inline concept (I6) for its engines, which guarantees smoother operation.

For the Audi Q7, we recommend: 50 TDI (3.0 V6, 210 kW)

For a roughly four-year-old used car (focusing on models primarily available between production dates 10/2020 and 07/2023), the 50 TDI engine is the ideal and most versatile choice. This diesel six-cylinder with 210 kW (286 hp) and a massive 600 Nm of torque represents the absolute "golden mean." The weaker 45 TDI version can feel somewhat underpowered in an often fully loaded seven-seater SUV, while gasoline variants or plug-in hybrids (TFSI e) suffer from significantly higher highway fuel consumption and faster depreciation in the real world.

The 50 TDI engine excels in exemplary refinement and the ability to move this mass of steel with real-world consumption between 8 and 9 liters per 100 kilometers. In terms of risks, it is absolutely crucial to pay attention to oil servicing. We strongly recommend shortening the factory oil change interval from the "long-life" 30,000 km to a more conservative 15,000 km. This step will significantly extend the life of the complex and expensive timing chains, which are located at the rear of the engine. During the test drive, focus on the operation of the eight-speed Tiptronic transmission. A certain micro-hesitation during sharp acceleration from a standstill is unfortunately more a matter of emission software settings in this generation, but if the transmission jerks or shifts roughly during normal driving, it indicates neglected transmission oil changes (ideally, it should be changed every 60,000 km). The car is particularly suitable for calmer long-distance drivers and families who appreciate unwavering stability and comfort over sporting ambitions.

For the BMW X5, we recommend: xDrive30d (3.0 I6, 210 kW)

For the BMW X5 (G05 generation), we clearly recommend the xDrive30d diesel inline-six. For the market of roughly four-year-old used cars, we are talking about the mild-hybrid version with 210 kW (286 hp), which was available from 08/2020 to 02/2023. The B57 engine family is currently considered one of the best diesels in the world. It has managed to resolve the chronic timing chain issues from previous generations and, in conjunction with the phenomenal and lightning-fast eight-speed ZF transmission, offers a noticeably better and sharper throttle response than the rival Audi Q7.

In real-world traffic, this BMW will reward you with great dynamics and, for such a large car, absurdly low fuel consumption, which can be maintained around 7.5 to 8 liters per 100 km without much restriction. The four-cylinder xDrive25d version cannot be recommended for such a heavy car, and the more powerful xDrive40d already brings higher service risks associated with a more complex turbocharging system. If you are considering a used X5 with this engine, pay close attention to two specific aspects. The first is the EGR cooler – always check the VIN code at an authorized service center to see if the vehicle has passed a recall (there is a risk of coolant leaks and, in extreme cases, a fire hazard). The second point is the xDrive all-wheel-drive system itself (transfer case). During the vehicle inspection, find a safe place and try to accelerate with the wheels at full lock. If the car vibrates or slightly "hops" from the chassis, it indicates degraded oil in the transfer case, or possibly damaged clutches. This engine is the perfect choice for more dynamic drivers who clock up hundreds of highway kilometers a week but, despite the car's family focus, still want to enjoy the legendary joy of driving.

In the automotive world, it is an open secret that official fuel consumption figures provided by manufacturers can differ significantly from drivers' real-world experiences. For large and heavy premium SUVs, such as roughly four-year-old used Audi Q7 (4M generation facelift) and BMW X5 (G05 generation), this is doubly true. While manufacturers' laboratory tables promise figures below seven liters for diesel versions and unrealistically low numbers dropping to one liter for plug-in hybrids, real-world driving brings more sober results. To get a more objective picture, we have therefore looked at real-world data obtained directly from drivers on the popular user platform Spritmonitor.de.

Below you will find a comparison of the average real-world fuel consumption for the most common engine versions of these two rivals from 2020–2023, which are among the most sought-after on the used car market.

Looking at the data in detail, several interesting trends can be observed:

• Efficient six-cylinder diesels: For these over two-ton highway cruisers, modern diesel six-cylinders are clearly the most rational choice. The BMW X5 in the xDrive30d version shows a slight edge, with its average staying around an excellent 8.3 l/100 km. The rival Audi Q7 with the 45 TDI or the more powerful 50 TDI engine lags only slightly behind and offers an excellent balance of consumption and dynamics.
• Thirstier petrol versions: Don't look for small turbocharged engines here; both cars rely on proper three-liter units, which, however, pay the price for the laws of physics and aerodynamic drag. A shining example is the fact that popular petrol versions commonly exceed the ten-liter mark, although the Bavarian straight-six in the xDrive40i shows slightly better efficiency than Audi's TFSI.
• Plug-in hybrids only for the disciplined: Although paper figures from databases promise fairy-tale consumption values for PHEV versions (officially often as low as 1.2 l/100 km), the real user average of around 4 to 5 liters reveals the clear truth. Without regular charging, the heavy battery actually increases consumption, and on the highway, the car drinks almost as much as a pure petrol engine.

What does this mean for the average used car buyer?
If you spend most of your time on highways, drive long distances, and appreciate a range approaching the 1,000-kilometer mark on a single tank, the diesel variants of both cars (especially the X5 xDrive30d or Q7 45 TDI) are a total safe bet. On the other hand, buyers who commute shorter distances to work, move mostly in the city, and have secured home or company charging will fully exploit the economic sense of plug-in hybrids. Here, the X5 xDrive45e has a slight edge, offering a longer pure electric range than its Audi equivalent thanks to a larger usable battery capacity.

In conclusion, fuel consumption alone should not be the main deciding factor in the battle between the Audi Q7 and BMW X5. Both SUVs feature excellently tuned power units, with the Munich-based manufacturer traditionally being about half a liter to a liter more economical. Much more important for future satisfaction with a used car will be the choice of the appropriate drive technology tailored exactly to your lifestyle and daily routes.

Buying a premium second-hand SUV is a smart way to avoid the initial steep depreciation. For our comparison, we focused on cars approximately 4 years old (model years 2020–2022), which corresponds to the fourth-generation BMW X5 (G05) before its later facelift and the second-generation Audi Q7 (4M) after the extensive 2019 update. Both models hold their value relatively well as used cars; however, there are certain price differences due to supply and demand for specific engines.

Current price range (model years 2020–2022)

Prices are indicative and vary depending on the chosen engine, verifiable service history, and specific equipment level.

Audi Q7: Emphasis on space and high residual value

Used Audi Q7 models from 2020 to 2022 benefit from a very successful facelift, which brought a modern interior with two touchscreens and improved mild-hybrid engines.

• Most common offer: Diesel six-cylinders clearly dominate the market, with the reliable and efficient 50 TDI (210 kW) version being the most sought-after.
• Depreciation: The Q7 holds its value very steadily. While cars with mileage approaching 150,000 km can be purchased more affordably, examples equipped with air suspension and the S line sports package disappear from dealerships quickly, even though sellers charge a premium in the range of thousands of euros.

BMW X5: Sportier character with a more diverse selection

The fourth-generation BMW X5 (G05) is among the most popular luxury SUVs in Europe, which means a significantly wider selection of used cars in dealerships.

• Most common offer: A safe bet on the used market is the xDrive30d (210 kW) or the more powerful xDrive40d, but you will also very often come across xDrive45e plug-in hybrids. For these, the price of 2020 models often drops towards the €45,000 mark.
• Depreciation: For BMW, the price drop tends to be milder thanks to the unceasing demand for driver-oriented SUVs. A huge draw is the popular M Sport package, which significantly increases the car's resale value. A more pronounced price drop can sometimes be observed in older plug-in hybrids, where buyers may be deterred by concerns about decreasing battery capacity.

Both models, the Audi Q7 and BMW X5, achieved the maximum five-star rating in independent Euro NCAP tests, clearly confirming their status as highly safe premium SUVs. However, when comparing them, it is essential to take into account the context and year of testing. The Euro NCAP methodology is constantly evolving and becoming stricter over the years; new and more demanding frontal impact simulations, stricter tests focused on cyclist detection, or completely new junction crisis scenarios are regularly introduced. Percentage results from different years cannot always be compared directly, as newer certifications place significantly higher demands on active assistance systems and the structural integrity of the vehicle itself.

The Audi Q7 last underwent crash tests in 2019 and, despite the tightening of the methodology at that time, confirmed its top-tier safety level. The 92% result for adult occupant protection testifies to an exceptionally strong body structure that keeps the cabin stable even in a severe impact. Child protection reached an excellent 86%, while the protection of vulnerable road users (pedestrians and cyclists) was rated at 71%. Safety assistance systems received 72%, significantly aided by the standard automatic emergency braking system, which reliably reacts to other vehicles and pedestrians. Given the year of testing, these results reflect the modern level of safety features very well, which are fully sufficient even for current used car market standards.

The BMW X5 (current G05 generation) underwent tests a year earlier, in 2018. Despite the slightly older methodology, the car demonstrated excellent passive and active safety and comfortably defended its five stars. Adult occupant protection was rated at 89%, with the car losing minor points mainly due to the non-optimal deployment of the driver's knee airbag in one of the tests. Child occupant protection, with a score of 86%, is perfectly comparable to the Audi. In the area of vulnerable road user protection (75%) and in the evaluation of assistance systems (75%), BMW achieved a slightly higher percentage score than its competitor, aided, among other things, by a sophisticated active bonnet that reduces the risk of serious head injuries for pedestrians in the event of a collision.

In conclusion, it can be stated that both cars provide families with top-tier protection and, in terms of safety, represent the best that the luxury SUV segment of the roughly four-year-old used car market offers. Although the Audi Q7 benefits from a slightly newer certification from 2019, where it excelled primarily in uncompromising adult protection, the 2018 BMW X5 offers a very balanced safety package with highly rated assistance systems and pedestrian protection. The choice between these two models in terms of safety brings no compromises for the buyer – both models offer very modern and highly comprehensive safety equipment that meets the highest requirements of today.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers much more than just basic functions, and each approaches added value in its own unmistakable way. Here are the most interesting features and technologies that can be decisive when choosing the ideal premium SUV.

Audi Q7: Technological Sophistication and First-Class Comfort

• Infotainment and Dashboard: The MMI touch response interface relies on two stacked touchscreens with haptic and acoustic feedback. The minimalist design without unnecessary buttons is complemented by the Audi virtual cockpit – a top-tier digital instrument cluster that remains a benchmark for clarity to this day.
• Chassis and Handling: Optional all-wheel steering (rear-axle steering) significantly facilitates maneuvering in underground garages by reducing the turning circle and simultaneously increases stability during highway travel. Combined with the optional adaptive air suspension, the Q7 offers an exceptionally smooth ride isolated from road imperfections.
• Advanced Assistance (ADAS): The predictive efficiency assistant can read data from navigation and cameras. It can adjust the car's speed on its own, not only according to traffic signs but also approaching curves, intersections, or roundabouts, thereby maximizing driving smoothness and saving brakes and fuel.
• Top-Tier Lighting: Optional HD Matrix LED headlights, which can be supplemented with a laser high-beam module on better-equipped units, guarantee excellent visibility at night without dazzling oncoming drivers.
• Sporty SQ7 Version: For lovers of maximum dynamics, the top-of-the-line SQ7 version is available. In the four-year-old used car market, you can find it with an immensely powerful V8 TDI diesel engine, or later with a V8 TFSI gasoline engine. These versions benefit from active electromechanical roll stabilization, which masks the car's weight in corners.

BMW X5: Innovative Control and Emphasis on Versatility

• Iconic Trunk Design: A typical and very practical feature of the X5 series is the two-piece horizontally split tailgate. The lower fold-down part not only makes it easier to load heavy objects without scratching the bumper but can also support an adult – serving perfectly as a bench when changing into outdoor shoes.
• Infotainment and Ergonomics: The iDrive control system is among the most user-friendly on the market. In addition to touch and voice control, it retains the traditional hardware rotary controller on the center console. An exceptional feature is the option for gesture control, where, for example, you can change the music volume by circling your finger in the air.
• Unique Comfort Features: The Sky Lounge panoramic glass roof features integrated LEDs that simulate a starry sky effect at night. The color of the "stars" changes dynamically according to the selected ambient interior lighting.
• Smart Telematics and Assistance: Daily worries are handled by the Reversing Assistant. The system constantly remembers the last 50 meters driven at speeds up to 36 km/h. If you get stuck in a narrow alley or a complex driveway, the car can autonomously reverse back exactly along the same path.
• Off-road Capabilities: For customers with an active lifestyle, the G05 generation offers the xOffroad package. This adds air suspension for both axles, a mechanical rear differential lock, and special driving modes for snow, sand, gravel, and rocks.
• Pioneering Plug-in Hybrids: The xDrive45e version is among the most sought-after plug-in hybrids in the segment on the nearly-new used car market. Compared to competitors, it relies on a combination with a refined inline-six engine and a massive battery, offering a real-world pure electric range approaching the 80-kilometer mark.

Audi Q7 represents the perfect highway cruiser that will win over buyers seeking uncompromising comfort, silence, and maximum space for the whole family. Its focus suits drivers who prefer calm long-distance travel over sporty cornering and often make use of the generous cargo space.

BMW X5 successfully combines premium luxury with impressive driving dynamics, making even a two-ton SUV fun to drive. It is the clear choice for active drivers who appreciate advanced technology, top-tier powertrains, and a sporty feel, even at the cost of slightly less everyday practicality compared to the Q7.

Based on our own CarAudit inspections, breakdown statistics from service networks, and reports from long-term users, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that buyers of roughly four-year-old used vehicles of these premium models should watch out for.

Audi Q7

The Audi Q7 (4M generation after the facelift) is a luxury technological cruiser, but due to its complexity, it can trouble owners with several typical faults. Before buying such a complex SUV, a thorough independent inspection of the vehicle's technical condition is an absolute necessity.

• Engine and Drivetrain (3.0 TDI): A very common and expensive problem with mild-hybrid diesel six-cylinders (labeled 45 TDI and 50 TDI) is the failure of the 48V starter-generator (BSG). If this happens, the car stops charging, may lose power while driving, and report a critical electrical system error. V6 TDI engines also occasionally experience coolant leaks in the water pump area.
• Electronics and Infotainment: Users often complain about the MMI system with its dual touchscreens freezing, slow loading after starting, or occasional failures of the parking cameras. Sometimes a software update helps; in worse cases, the entire control module must be replaced.
• Chassis and Suspension: The air suspension is very reliable up to about 150,000 km, but with increasing age and mileage, compressors fail or leaks appear in the air bellows. Due to the vehicle's massive curb weight (often over 2.2 tons), the front lower control arm bushings also degrade faster.
• Exterior: With the optional Matrix LED headlights, excessive condensation occasionally appears on the inside of the cover glass. Ignoring this problem can lead to flooding and damage to the expensive light control units.

BMW X5

The BMW X5 (G05 generation from 2019–2023) is considered a driver-attractive and overall sturdy SUV. However, even here there are design weaknesses, especially in the area of diesel engine emission systems and the sensitive all-wheel-drive system.

• Emission Systems (3.0d B57 engines): Six-cylinder diesels in the xDrive30d and xDrive40d models quite often suffer from leaks in the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler. BMW has issued several recalls for this problem because leaking coolant can, in extreme cases, cause a local fire in the engine compartment.
• All-Wheel Drive xDrive: The transfer case of the xDrive system is extremely sensitive to differences in rolling resistance and tire diameter. If the owner does not change all four tires at once or does not use tires with specific star-rated homologation, the transfer case wears excessively. This manifests as noticeable jerking and twitching during acceleration.
• Electronics: Problems often arise with the amplifiers of the premium Harman Kardon audio system. The cause is usually moisture or direct water ingress into the side pockets in the luggage compartment. The iDrive 7 onboard system is otherwise very stable, but wireless over-the-air (OTA) updates occasionally fail.
• Body and Chassis: On cars equipped with optional air suspension, there is a risk of rear bellows leaks after four to five years. A common and annoying minor fault in the G05 generation is also the failure of the electric spindles (motors) in the lower folding part of the split tailgate.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Both models represent technologically very complex and heavy premium SUVs, where neglected maintenance can become significantly expensive. Therefore, a thorough Comprehensive car audit should take place before every purchase. Here are several specific points to focus on during a test drive and inspection of roughly four-year-old examples.

When choosing an Audi Q7:

• Air suspension: Most used Q7s are equipped with adaptive air suspension. After parking, the car should not "sink" to one side, and the compressor must not run constantly after starting. Try changing driving modes during the test drive and observe whether the vehicle height changes smoothly and without warning messages from the trip computer.
• Mild-hybrid system (48V network) in six-cylinders: Especially in diesel versions (e.g., 50 TDI), pay attention to the condition of the belt-driven starter-generator (BSG). Its failure is a known issue in the post-facelift generation, which can lead to rapid battery depletion and the vehicle stalling. Verify whether this part has already been replaced under warranty or a recall campaign.
• Tiptronic gearbox response and smoothness: In the eight-speed ZF automatic, focus on any jerking during slow crawling, pulling away, or sharper downshifts. A software update often helps, but rough behavior can indicate wear of the clutches or neglected transmission oil change intervals.
• Brake and chassis wear: Due to the high kerb weight (often over 2.2 tons), the brakes and bushings on the front axle suffer greatly. When braking harder from higher speeds, the steering wheel must not vibrate, which would certainly indicate warped brake discs.
• MMI Infotainment and dual displays: Check whether both touch panels respond accurately to commands, have no "dead" spots, and whether their specific haptic feedback works correctly. Random system freezes may require expensive software or hardware intervention.

When choosing a BMW X5:

• xDrive transfer case and drive system: The all-wheel-drive system in BMWs is extremely sensitive to different tyre circumferences (for example, if all four tyres are not changed at the same time). When driving slowly at full lock, you must not hear any clicking or grinding from the chassis, or feel any vibrations.
• Battery condition in the plug-in hybrid (xDrive45e): This model is very popular on the used car market, but battery health is crucial here. During the test drive, check the real-world electric-only range and have the available capacity of the high-voltage battery verified via the on-board system or diagnostics.
• Split tailgate: The G05 generation features an electronically controlled upper and lower part of the tailgate. Try opening and closing both parts several times. The lower folding part is particularly prone to the electric motors jamming, especially if dirt or dust has entered the mechanism.
• Oil leaks in six-cylinders: Although the B57 (diesel) and B58 (petrol) engines are overall very reliable and durable, it is important to check the area around the valve cover. Occasional oil seepage is not an exception, which is why an independent technical inspection of the car on a lift is key, as it will reveal even hidden leaks on the lower engine cover.
• iDrive system and OTA updates: Ensure that the iDrive multimedia system starts up briskly and communicates without problems with your smartphone (Apple CarPlay / Android Auto). Check the menu to see if any unsuccessful Over-The-Air (OTA) software updates are "stuck," which could prevent future improvements to the car's functions.

Sources: ADAC, mdcr.cz, garaz.cz, smartmania.cz, autorevue.cz, autickaruvblog.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.