Q5 vs Polestar 4
Two makers, one class, one decision: the Q5 from Audi or the Polestar 4 from Polestar. Most of what matters is shared here; the differences are real but modest.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Q5 wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance4.5
- Engine & Performance3.9
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The Q5 has 42 lb-ft more torque
Put simply, the Q5 is far ahead here: 295 lb-ft compared with 253 lb-ft. More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
Q5 leads
If engine & performance is high on your list, the Q5 makes the stronger case by a wide margin. The Q5 takes this one with 42 lb-ft more torque. The Q5’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing. Net result: the Q5 leads this part of the comparison.
Torque
Q5: 295 lb-ft Polestar 4: 253 lb-ft Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
Side by side, the space & practicality figures for the Q5 and the Polestar 4 barely differ. Neither car gives you a reason to choose it on space & practicality.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
The off-road & towing section is even. Any gaps here are within the range you’d never notice. Don’t let off-road & towing decide this one; look at the other sections instead.
Safety & Tech
For safety & tech, the spec sheet lists components and formats rather than figures we can rank. The table shows what the Q5 and the Polestar 4 each bring.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Q5 | Polestar 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Battery electric |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | Single rear electric motor |
| Total system output | 268 hp | 272 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft (winner) | 253 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch (S tronic) | Single-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | AWD (quattro) | RWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Q5 | Polestar 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 24 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 21 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 29 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 300 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Q5 | Polestar 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Q5 | Polestar 4 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Q5 | Polestar 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
Price
| Spec | Q5 | Polestar 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | N/A (not specified) | $56,400 |
“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 Q5 if…
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (295 lb-ft vs 253 lb-ft of torque)
- you trust Audi and want to keep things familiar
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the Q5 or the Polestar 4?
On the specs compared here, the Q5 makes more sense for most buyers; the Polestar 4 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
I love a proper cross-brand matchup, and the Q5 against the Polestar 4 is exactly that. In daily life, I think the first difference you’d notice is 42 lb-ft more torque, and that goes to the Q5.
I’d steer engine & performance fans toward the Q5 and the things a spec sheet can’t capture fans toward the Polestar 4.
My pick: the Q5.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.