2024 Jeep Wrangler vs 2025 Audi Q5

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler retained its iconic rugged appearance, characterized by a burly, body-on-frame design that was consistent across all models. While the Rubicon X and Rubicon 392 trims featured larger tires, the overall look remained largely unchanged. A redesigned grille, first seen on the 2023 20th Anniversary edition, was introduced, offering a shorter and wider design that improved airflow. The integration of the antenna into the windshield was a notable upgrade, preventing it from snagging on branches during off-road adventures. Additionally, the Wrangler offered a variety of roof options, including traditional soft-top, full hard top, and power-retractable sunroof configurations, allowing for a customizable open-air experience.

The 2025 Audi Q5 embraced a robust SUV aesthetic with a large, textured grille, prominent side air intakes, and high-mounted headlights, giving it an imposing front-end look. Despite the new styling elements, the design felt more like an evolution than a complete redesign. The Q5 was available in Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige trims, with LED Headlights Plus and programmable OLED taillights on higher trims. The model was offered in both standard SUV and coupe-like Sportback body styles, with the latter sacrificing some cargo space for a sleeker profile. The SQ5 performance variant featured enhanced power, sport suspension, and distinctive design elements like matte chrome trim and quad exhaust tips, emphasizing its sporty nature.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of powertrains, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, a plug-in hybrid version with 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and a powerful 6.4-liter V8 engine delivering 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. Various transfer cases were available, catering to different off-road capabilities. The 4xe PHEV model stood out with its 21 miles of all-electric range and impressive power output, making it a favorite among testers. The Wrangler's solid axles provided excellent articulation for off-road traction, while the addition of sound deadening material improved cabin quietness. A WARN winch option was also introduced for Rubicon models, enhancing trail recovery capabilities.

The 2025 Audi Q5 featured a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive across all models. The base Q5 was powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine producing 268 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the SQ5 boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with 362 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Despite the impressive specs, both models experienced turbo lag and rough shifts, affecting acceleration. The air suspension with adaptive damping, standard on the SQ5, provided capable handling but lacked a sporty feel. The Q5 offered Off-Road and Off-Road Plus driving modes, but it was more suited for dirt roads than technical trails.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler saw an upgrade in towing capacity, with certain models now able to tow up to 5,000 pounds, thanks to a full-float solid rear axle. However, this rating was limited to specific four-door Rubicon-trim Wranglers. Inside, the Wrangler offered heated seats and a heated steering wheel, with new 12-way power adjustable front seats that remained functional even when submerged. The 4xe model featured a 30-amp Power Box, allowing for the use of various accessories powered by the vehicle's battery.

The 2025 Audi Q5 maintained similar dimensions to its predecessor, offering adequate headroom and legroom. The model featured a sliding and reclining second-row bench seat, with increased cargo space compared to the 2024 model. The Q5 offered more cargo space than some rivals but fell short of others like the Acura RDX and BMW X3. Standard features included a power tailgate and heated front seats, with higher trims adding a heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, and ventilated front seats. The Q5's towing capacity was rated at 4,400 pounds, surpassing some competitors.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler came equipped with a 12.3-inch center infotainment screen running Uconnect5, with optional navigation. The system was faster and more user-friendly, with features like Off-Road Pages providing detailed vehicle data. The Trails Offroad feature offered access to over 200 trails, with the option to subscribe for more. Additional features included a wireless hotspot, dual Bluetooth phone pairing, and the ability to store multiple user profiles.

The 2025 Audi Q5 featured an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, with a 10.9-inch passenger screen on the Prestige trim. The MMI infotainment system, based on Android Automotive OS, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a cooled wireless charging pad. The Premium Plus trim added USB-C ports and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The Q5 also included a built-in voice assistant and an available head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler introduced first- and second-row side-curtain airbags, with forward collision warning standard on most models. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and park assist. The Wrangler had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS for 2024, but previous ratings indicated room for improvement in crash protection.

The 2025 Audi Q5 came with a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, active front assist, lane departure warning, and more. Premium Plus models added a 360-degree camera system and adaptive cruise assist. Safety ratings for the 2025 model were not yet available, but Audi aimed to match the five-star rating of the previous generation.