2021 Audi Q3 vs 2022 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 Q3's cabin echoed a mechanical, modern aesthetic, with a dash design that framed the center touchscreen, highlighting one of its top features. Although the interior was a standout when it debuted in 2019, similar designs from Volkswagen made the Q3 feel less unique, though still modern and refined.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia maintained a mature design, having been in its second generation for 14 years. Its exterior struck a balance with a modest grille and elegant wheel arches, presenting a big, bold presence. However, the interior felt dated, with a flat dashboard and a small 7-inch touchscreen that seemed out of place compared to modern SUVs. Despite this, the Sequoia's interior was well-built, with high-quality materials and a focus on durability, making it suitable for families.

The 2021 Audi Q3 was equipped 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 with 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The Q3's performance was lively, with a decent kick off the line, especially in Sport mode, which enhanced throttle response and transmission mapping. Despite some turbo lag in the base engine, the Q3 offered nimble handling and a comfortable ride, striking a balance between engagement and refinement.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia featured a 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain was known for its durability and reliability, offering a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. Despite its weight, the Sequoia provided a smooth and stable ride, with competent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and ample ground clearance. However, its fuel economy was a drawback, with ratings of 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway.

The 2021 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 cargo space was subpar for its class, the Q3 compensated with comfortable passenger space, providing ample headroom and legroom for four passengers on a road trip.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with roomy seating across all three rows and features like three-zone climate control and a power moonroof. The cargo compartment offered 18.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 66.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 120.1 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down, making it ideal for family adventures.

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 audio system. The Audi Virtual Cockpit offered a customizable digital display, enhancing the tech experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a clunky operating system. However, it included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, WiFi connectivity, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Limited trim added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, with an optional premium audio package. Despite lacking modern powertrain technology, the Sequoia featured LED lighting and standard safety tech like a rear backup camera.

The 2021 Audi Q3 included standard safety features like Audi Pre Sense, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control, enhancing its safety profile.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings but offered the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The STAR safety system provided stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags, ensuring comprehensive safety for its occupants.