2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i vs 2026 Audi Q8 Premium
On paper, the 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i wins on 4 MPG better, 40 more hp, 29 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Audi Q8 Premium has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 375 vs 335 hp, 23 vs 19 MPG.
The X7 xDrive40i leads on 4 MPG better, 40 more hp. The Q8 Premium leads on $11,900 less. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i | 2026 Audi Q8 Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $87,500 | $75,600 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.0L I6 mild-hybrid Turbo | 3.0L V6 mild-hybrid Turbo |
| Horsepower | 375 hp | 335 hp |
| Torque | 398 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 17 |
| Highway MPG | 25 | 23 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 19 |
| Fuel Tank | 21.9 gal | 22.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,500/yr | $3,050/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 5,417 lbs | 5,027 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 122.2" | 118.0" |
| Length | 203.6" | 196.0" |
| Width | 78.7" | 79.0" |
| Height | 72.2" | 67.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/unlimited | 4yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i and 2026 Audi Q8 Premium?
The 2026 Audi Q8 Premium starts at $75,600, $11,900 less than the 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i at $87,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $210/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i?
The 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $385/year less on fuel; the extra 40 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Audi Q8 Premium?
The 2026 Audi Q8 Premium is the stronger pick when you want to keep $11,900 in your pocket and the 2026 Audi Q8 Premium covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i or 2026 Audi Q8 Premium?
The 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i rates 23 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i or 2026 Audi Q8 Premium?
The 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i produces 375 hp, 40 more than the 2026 Audi Q8 Premium at 335 hp. The 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i also leads in torque at 398 lb-ft vs 369 lb-ft. The 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i runs a 3.0L I6 mild-hybrid Turbo; the 2026 Audi Q8 Premium uses a 3.0L V6 mild-hybrid Turbo.
Is the 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i bigger than the 2026 Audi Q8 Premium?
The 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i is 7.6″ longer at 203.6″ vs 196.0″. The 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i has a 4.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain.
Explore more: BMW trims, BMW X7 trims, Audi trims, Audi Q8 trims
- 2026 Audi Q8 Premium Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The X7–Q8 Decision
Cross-shopping full-size SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the X7 and Q8 compare. The $-11,900 gap adds up to $210/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i runs a 3.0L I6 mild-hybrid Turbo; the 2026 Audi Q8 Premium uses a 3.0L V6 mild-hybrid Turbo. The 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i has 40 more hp (375 vs 335), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i saves roughly $385/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,925.
Living With the X7 vs the Q8
The 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i weighs 390 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 BMW X7 xDrive40i when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $385/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Audi Q8 Premium when you want to keep $11,900 in your pocket and the 2026 Audi Q8 Premium covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with BMW or Audi or any dealership.