DecodedCarsAudi Q4 e-tron vs BMW X3
2026 Audi Q4 e-tron vs 2026 BMW X3 — two rivals compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
That works out to about $2,200 a year less in fuel for the Audi Q4 e-tron (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
The BMW X3 is the bigger car, about 7 inches longer.
Across all model years since 2005, the Audi Q4 e-tron has had fewer recall campaigns (8 vs 62).
The two cars
The 2026 Audi Q4 e-tron is a standard SUV powered by electricity and rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. It measures about 181 inches long and 74 inches wide on a 109-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,872 lb (4dr SUV).
The 2026 BMW X3 is a small SUV offered with 2 engines (2.0L 4-cyl turbo and 3.0L 6-cyl turbo), including a hybrid version and all-wheel drive. It measures about 187 inches long and 76 inches wide on a 113-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,176 lb (30 Xdrive 4dr SUV).
Buying used? The 2024 Q4 e-tron and the 2023 X3 have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2020 X3.
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the Audi Q4 e-tron if…
- You want an EV with more range (288 miles)
- You want something easier to park (7 in shorter)
- You put reliability history first (8 vs 62 recalls since 2005)
Choose the BMW X3 if…
- You want more room (7 in longer)
Pros & cons of each
2026 Audi Q4 e-tron
- AWD / 4WD available
2026 BMW X3
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
Full 2026 Audi Q4 e-tron specs →Full 2026 BMW X3 specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →