BMW i5 vs Audi e-tron GT
Two electric Sedans go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The BMW i5 starts from $155,900 before on-road costs, while the Audi e-tron GT opens at $209,900. That makes the BMW i5 the more affordable entry point by $54,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $171,490 and $230,890 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
Both the BMW i5 and Audi e-tron GT hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 89% for the BMW i5 and 91% for the Audi e-tron GT.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Audi e-tron GT packs more ADAS features with 8 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 7 in the BMW i5.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the BMW i5 and 8 in the Audi e-tron GT.
Feature Showdown
The BMW i5 features a 14.9-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Audi e-tron GT gets a 10.1-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW i5 stands out with wireless charging, panoramic roof and Bowers & Wilkins audio that you will not find on the Audi e-tron GT. The Audi e-tron GT counters with ventilated seats, Bang & Olufsen audio and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the BMW i5 gets vernasca leather upholstery while the Audi e-tron GT offers leather. Climate control is 2-zone in the BMW i5 and 3-zone in the Audi e-tron GT.
Drivetrain
The BMW i5 uses a Electric producing 250kW and 430Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 5.7 seconds.
The Audi e-tron GT responds with a Electric making 435kW and 740Nm, paired to a single speed driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 3.4 seconds.
The Audi e-tron GT has the clear power advantage at 435kW vs 250kW. In the real-world sprint, the Audi e-tron GT is 2.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 84kWh (BMW i5) vs 105kWh (Audi e-tron GT), giving WLTP ranges of 557km and 559km. DC fast charging peaks at 205kW (BMW i5) vs 320kW (Audi e-tron GT).
Space & Comfort
The BMW i5 measures 5,060mm long on a 2,995mm wheelbase, 71mm longer than the Audi e-tron GT at 4,989mm (2,900mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW i5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 500L in the BMW i5 and 405L in the Audi e-tron GT, giving the BMW i5 a 95L advantage.
For towing, the BMW i5 leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 1,000kg. That 1,000kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.6m to 11.9m
Based on 11.9m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (BMW i5) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Audi e-tron GT). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW i5 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Audi e-tron GT if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Audi e-tron GT takes 6 of 9 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the BMW i5 has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, BMW i5 and Audi e-tron GT?
The BMW i5 is the cheapest at $155,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Audi e-tron GT by $54,000.
Which has the longest driving range?
The BMW i5 has the most range at 582km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Audi e-tron GT accepts the highest DC charging at up to 320kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — BMW i5 and Audi e-tron GT all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The BMW i5 has the largest boot at 500L.
Which can tow the most?
The BMW i5 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,000kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Audi e-tron GT makes the most power at 435kW. The Audi e-tron GT is quickest to 100km/h in 3.4s.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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