The biggest practical difference between these two luxury SUVs is seating. The 2026 Audi Q7 provides three rows and seating for up to seven passengers. Its third-row seats can fold at the touch of a button, and Audi lists up to 68.1 cubic feet of cargo volume with the second and third rows folded. A hands-free power tailgate adds another layer of everyday convenience. The 2026 BMW X5 is configured for up to five passengers across two rows. BMW lists 33.9 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the second row and 72.3 cubic feet with that row folded.

That gives each SUV a different utility strength. The X5 provides more maximum cargo volume in its two-row configuration, while the Q7 adds the flexibility of carrying two additional passengers. For Fort Lauderdale households balancing school runs, airport trips, visiting family, and weekend travel, the Q7's third row can make the difference between needing another vehicle and keeping everyone together.

Standard quattro® Means AWD at Every Q7 Starting Point

quattro® all-wheel drive is standard throughout the 2026 Audi Q7 lineup. Buyers can select either the 261-horsepower Q7 45 TFSI® or the 335-horsepower Q7 55 TFSI® without changing that fundamental drivetrain configuration. BMW approaches the X5 differently. The entry X5 sDrive40i uses rear-wheel drive, while the X5 xDrive40i adds BMW xDrive all-wheel drive. The xDrive40i is therefore the closer drivetrain counterpart to the Q7 55 TFSI® quattro®. For drivers who specifically want an all-wheel-drive luxury SUV, the Q7 makes that capability standard from the beginning of the lineup.

The X5 Leads in Power, While the Q7 Adds Seven-Passenger Versatility

The Q7 55 TFSI® uses a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Audi pairs it with an eight-speed Tiptronic® transmission and quattro® all-wheel drive and lists a 5.5-second 0–60 mph time. The BMW X5 xDrive40i produces 375 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque from its 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid powertrain. BMW lists a 5.2-second 0–60 mph time. Drivers prioritizing maximum output between these two configurations will find stronger numbers in the BMW. The Q7's appeal comes from combining responsive V6 performance with standard AWD and three-row passenger capacity.

The Q7 Can Tow Up to 7,700 Pounds

For boat, trailer, or recreational equipment owners in South Florida, towing capability adds another meaningful point of comparison. Audi rates the Q7 55 TFSI® for up to 7,700 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped with towing accessories. The available trailer hitch includes a 7-pin adapter. Vehicle load, accessories, and other factors can reduce maximum towing capacity. BMW rates the 2026 X5 for a maximum towing capacity of 7,200 pounds with the available factory-installed trailer hitch. For buyers planning to tow, always confirm the specific vehicle configuration, equipment, trailer requirements, and limits in the owner's manual before use.

Audi Keeps Essential Information Directly in View

The Q7's technology layout combines a 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus with Audi MMI® touch response. The customizable digital instrument cluster provides three display modes, while the central MMI interface uses haptic feedback. A secondary touchscreen handles climate functions and includes handwriting recognition. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ provide smartphone connectivity. On Premium Plus and Prestige trims, Audi also includes a 17-speaker, 730-watt Bang & Olufsen® Premium sound system with 3D sound.

The BMW X5 counters with the BMW Curved Display, bringing infotainment and vehicle controls together within BMW's digital interface. The choice comes down to interface preference: Audi combines its dedicated virtual cockpit with a dual-touchscreen MMI arrangement, while BMW uses its curved-display architecture.

Experience the 2026 Audi Q7 at Audi Fort Lauderdale. Explore available Q7 models, compare Q7 45 and Q7 55 configurations, and schedule a test drive to see how three-row seating, standard quattro® all-wheel drive, and Audi technology fit your South Florida lifestyle.