If fuel cost matters most
Audi Q5 with up to 42 MPG combined.
Side-by-side verified model comparison
Audi Q5 vs Ford Explorer
Audi Q5 and Ford Explorer answer the same shopping question from different directions. The Q5 is more efficient on verified EPA data, while the Explorer reaches the higher power peak. Use the table below to decide whether your priority is fuel cost, safety, size or outright output.
At a glance
| Metric | Audi Q5 | Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Production coverage | 2008 - present | 1990 - present |
| Verified generations | 2 | 2 |
| Peak power | 354 hp | 400 hp |
| Best EPA combined | 42 MPG | 25 MPG |
| Latest NHTSA overall | 5★ | NR |
| Open recalls (2024/2020) | 4 | 33 |
| Latest dimensions | 4682 × 1893 × 1662 mm | 5049 × 2004 × 1775 mm |
| Average curb weight | 1827 kg (4028 lbs) | 2117 kg (4667 lbs) |
| Fuel types | Diesel, Petrol | Petrol, Hybrid |
If power matters most
Ford Explorer with a verified peak of 400 hp.
If safety is the filter
The available data is incomplete, so use the side-by-side table rather than a one-line verdict.
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Head-to-Head: Base Model Specifications
A detailed side-by-side comparison of the entry-level powertrain for the newest verified generation of each model. This shows exactly what you get before adding options or stepping up to premium trims.
| Specification | Audi Q5Q5 FY 40 TDI quattro | Ford ExplorerExplorer VI (U625) 2.3L EcoBoost AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Engine & Performance | ||
| Engine Type | Diesel | Petrol |
| Cylinders / Configuration | I4 | I4 |
| Displacement | 2.0L (1968 cc) | 2.3L (2261 cc) |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Turbocharged |
| Horsepower | 204 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 420 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) | 7.6 s | 6.0 s |
| Top Speed | 222 km/h | 200 km/h |
| Transmission & Drivetrain | ||
| Transmission | Dual-clutch | 10-Speed Automatic |
| Gears | 7 | — |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy & Range | ||
| City MPG (EPA) | 37.0 MPG | 20.0 MPG |
| Highway MPG (EPA) | 46.0 MPG | 27.0 MPG |
| Combined MPG (EPA) | 42.0 MPG | 23.0 MPG |
| Electric Range | — | — |
| Battery Capacity | — | — |
| CO₂ Emissions | 148 g/km | — |
| Dimensions & Utility | ||
| Length | 4682 mm | 5049 mm |
| Width | 1893 mm | 2004 mm |
| Height | 1662 mm | 1775 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2832 mm | 3025 mm |
| Curb Weight | 1825 kg | 1970 kg |
| Doors / Seats | 4 / 5 | 5 / 7 |
What search winners do that generic comparisons don’t
The top-ranking comparison pages win because they answer an explicit buying job: which one is more efficient, which one is safer, which one is larger, which one has the broader powertrain range. Pages that only dump two brochures side by side rarely hold clicks.
This comparison uses the newest verified generation of each model as the headline lens, then routes you into the exact generation sheets for the trim-level details. That is more durable than comparing incentives or dealer inventory, and more trustworthy than hiding missing data behind a made-up score.
Questions buyers ask
Which is more fuel-efficient, the Q5 or the Explorer?
Audi Q5 wins on verified EPA combined economy at up to 42 MPG, versus 25 MPG for the Ford Explorer.
Which has more horsepower, the Q5 or the Explorer?
Ford Explorer reaches the higher verified peak at 400 hp, compared with 354 hp for the Audi Q5.
Which is safer: Q5 or Explorer?
Audi Q5 has a latest recorded NHTSA overall rating of 5★; Ford Explorer has not rated. Cross-check the frontal, side and rollover rows rather than using one headline number alone.
Is this a trim-by-trim comparison?
This page compares the newest verified generation of each model family. For year-specific engines, dimensions and trim tables, open the linked generation pages for each side.