e-tron GT vs i5
Cross-brand comparisons are where priorities show. Audi’s e-tron GT and BMW’s i5 target the same midsize luxury car space in different ways. The data points to two closely matched options rather than a clear favorite.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance e-tron GT wins
- Fuel Economy & Range Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
Key Differences
-
The e-tron GT has 335 hp more power
The i5 lists 335 hp; the e-tron GT comes in at 670 hp. That’s not a rounding error. The e-tron GT’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
e-tron GT leads
The e-tron GT is the clear pick if engine & performance is what you care about most. The e-tron GT answers with 335 hp more power. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels. Bottom line for engine & performance: the e-tron GT has the edge.
Total system output
e-tron GT: 670 hp i5: 335 hp More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
Fuel Economy & Range
Too close to call
Neither the e-tron GT nor the i5 has a real advantage in the fuel economy & range category. Bottom line for fuel economy & range: it’s a wash.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Swap one for the other and you’d lose nothing on off-road & towing. The off-road & towing verdict: no winner, and no reason to worry either way.
Safety & Tech
Nothing to tally in the safety & tech section, but plenty to read. The table lists what the e-tron GT and the i5 each use.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | e-tron GT | i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Electric | Electric |
| Engine | Dual electric motors | Single rear electric motor |
| Total system output | 670 hp (winner) Most powerful in class | 335 hp |
| Torque | N/A (not specified) | 295 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 2-speed (rear axle) | 1-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | AWD (quattro) | RWD (xDrive AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | e-tron GT | i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Electric range | 300 mi | 295 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | e-tron GT | i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | N/A (not specified) | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | e-tron GT | i5 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | e-tron GT | i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
Price
| Spec | e-tron GT | i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $125,500 Priciest in class | N/A (not specified) |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the e-tron GT if…
- you want more power (670 hp vs 335 hp)
- you already use other Audi products
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the e-tron GT or the i5?
On the specs compared here, the e-tron GT makes more sense for most buyers; the i5 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Does the e-tron GT last longer on a charge than the i5?
On paper, the e-tron GT and the i5 are evenly matched on battery, so expect similar endurance.
Executive Summary
Let me cut through the brand noise around the e-tron GT and the i5. My main argument for the e-tron GT? It comes with 335 hp more power.
If engine & performance is your thing, the e-tron GT fits. If the things a spec sheet can’t capture matters more, the i5 makes more sense.
My pick: the e-tron GT.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.