2021 Audi Q3 vs 2021 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Audi Q3 showcased a postmodern automotive styling with its massive corporate grille, which complemented its stout and chunky design. This design suggested utility and dynamic handling, primarily delivering on the latter. Inside, the cabin echoed a mechanical, modern aesthetic, with a dash design that framed the center touchscreen, highlighting one of the Q3’s standout features. Although the interior felt modern and refined, it was no longer as unique due to similar designs from Audi’s sibling brand, Volkswagen.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Sequoia appeared dated, having been introduced in 2007 with only minor updates since. The 2018 facelift attempted to modernize its look with updated headlights and grille, but the subtle changes were overshadowed by its imposing silhouette. Inside, the Sequoia’s multi-tiered center dash design felt reminiscent of the mid-2000s, and the standard 7-inch touchscreen seemed small against the expansive dash space. Despite its age, the Sequoia offered a spacious cabin with comfortable, supportive seats, though the front seats felt bulky.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive. The S-Line trim offered a more powerful version of the same engine, delivering 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided lively performance, especially in Sport mode, which enhanced throttle response and transmission mapping. The Q3’s handling was nimble and engaging, offering a comfortable ride without compromising on dynamic driving.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia featured a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine, generating 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This power was managed by a six-speed automatic transmission, available in rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive with low range. The Sequoia’s acceleration was strong, despite its hefty weight, and its driving dynamics resembled those of a capable pickup truck. It could tow up to 7,400 pounds, though it lagged behind competitors like the Ford Expedition and Chevrolet Tahoe in towing capacity.

The Audi Q3 offered 48 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 23.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats. While the space behind the seats was decent for a subcompact luxury SUV, the overall cargo capacity was below average for the class. However, the Q3 compensated with ample passenger space, providing comfortable seating for up to five people, with impressive headroom and legroom in the rear.

The Toyota Sequoia boasted a spacious cabin with nearly 19 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and over 66 cubic feet with it folded. With all rear seats down, it offered 120 cubic feet of cargo space, making it one of the roomiest in its class. The Sequoia featured a power-retractable rear window, adding convenience for accessing cargo. Despite its dated design, the Sequoia provided numerous storage options, including deep door pockets and a massive center console.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system running Audi’s MMI system, featuring Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. An upgraded 10.1-inch touchscreen with navigation was available, along with options like wireless device charging and a Bang & Olufsen 15-speaker audio system. The Audi Virtual Cockpit offered a customizable digital display, enhancing the tech-savvy interior.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia included a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a WiFi hotspot. Our test model had a larger 9-inch screen, though it still felt small on the expansive dash. The system was user-friendly, with simple menu navigation and large hard buttons. Despite its dated technology, the Sequoia’s infotainment system was straightforward and functional.

The Audi Q3 was equipped with Audi Pre Sense and Pre Sense Front, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Standard features also included lane-departure warning, with optional features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Additional options included a 360-degree camera system and self-parking assist.

The Toyota Sequoia came with the Toyota Safety Sense-P suite, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. It also included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Despite lacking advanced features like lane-keeping assist, the Sequoia provided a comprehensive set of safety features. However, it scored only four out of five stars in the NHTSA rollover test.