Denza B5 vs Audi Q5
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
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 Denza B5 starts from $74,990 before on-road costs, while the Audi Q5 opens at $80,900. That makes the Denza B5 the more affordable entry point by $5,910.
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. Estimated driveaway prices sit around $81,221 for the Denza B5 and $91,712 for the Audi Q5.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Audi Q5 by roughly $1,850 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Denza B5 and Audi Q5 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the Denza B5 and 85% for the Audi Q5.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Audi Q5 packs more ADAS features with 9 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 0 in the Denza B5.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems. The Audi Q5 adds a 360-degree camera that the Denza B5 misses.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Denza B5 stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Audi Q5. The Audi Q5 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, power tailgate, Bang & Olufsen audio and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Denza B5 uses a Petrol Turbo PHEV producing 400kW and 760Nm of torque, sent through a 1-speed auto to a AWD layout.
The Audi Q5 responds with a 4-cylinder inline petrol with turbocharging and MHEV plus technology making 150kW and 340Nm, paired to a 7-speed s tronic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds.
The Denza B5 has the clear power advantage at 400kW vs 150kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Denza B5 measures 4,888mm long on a 2,800mm wheelbase, 171mm longer than the Audi Q5 at 4,717mm (2,820mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Audi Q5 generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Denza B5 leads with a 3,000kg braked capacity vs 2,000kg. 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.
11.8m diameter
Average
Based on 11.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,995/year for the Denza B5 and $1,625/year for the Audi Q5. That is a $370 annual difference in favour of the Audi Q5.
Estimated annual total: $1,995 (Denza B5) vs $1,625 (Audi Q5). The Audi Q5 saves you roughly $370 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 6 years / 150,000km (Denza B5) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Audi Q5). The Denza B5 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: —5yr (Audi Q5).
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Denza B5 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Denza's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Audi Q5 if: You want lower running costs, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Denza B5 takes 4 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Audi Q5 will save you roughly $370 a year in fuel. The Denza B5 adds peace of mind with a longer 6-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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