BMW iX or Audi Q8, which one would you choose?

We haven’t bought the iX yet, but we just ruled out the Q8 yesterday. Mainly, the visibility was an issue for us. The door and dashboard height on the Q8 made the windows seem smaller, which affected our view. When I looked at the right-side mirror, I couldn’t see the bottom of it, even with the seat at its highest position.

Another problem was that when I turned my head left, the pillar between the doors blocked my view. I noticed this in both the Lexus RZ and the Q8, but the iX was much better, with the pillar further back and offering good visibility.

Lastly, there’s the issue with the Q8’s third screen. It’s a separate display just for climate controls, and I couldn’t find a way to turn it off. It’s always on and was a bit distracting.

Do any of you rule out cars based on things like this? Or have any of you found any other dealbreakers like this?

We’re leaning toward the iX now. Anyone had any issues with it? Thanks for any help.

The iX’s visibility is amazing! When I test-drove mine, I immediately noticed how big the windshield felt and how great the views are out of the back and sides.

Darcy said:
The iX’s visibility is amazing! When I test-drove mine, I immediately noticed how big the windshield felt and how great the views are out of the back and sides.

I love my iX too, but sometimes the visibility makes me nervous. I feel like I don’t know where the car ends, and the cameras and alerts for reversing can be a bit overwhelming. Anyone else feel this way?

For me, the only downside of the iX is the turning circle. It’s great otherwise!

Dru said:
For me, the only downside of the iX is the turning circle. It’s great otherwise!

That’s what the rear-wheel steering option is for, right? I added it to my build, but I haven’t received my car yet.

Dru said:
For me, the only downside of the iX is the turning circle. It’s great otherwise!

Yep! The rear-wheel steering definitely helps the turning circle. Makes a big difference.

Dru said:
For me, the only downside of the iX is the turning circle. It’s great otherwise!

Funny, I didn’t think the turning was bad at all compared to my older cars!

Dru said:
For me, the only downside of the iX is the turning circle. It’s great otherwise!

Audi usually has sharper steering angles, but I still prefer the iX.

Dru said:
For me, the only downside of the iX is the turning circle. It’s great otherwise!

In Europe, the turning circle feels much worse than in the US. It’s kind of strange.

The front cup holders and no locking glove box are small annoyances, but nothing major.

Cody said:
The front cup holders and no locking glove box are small annoyances, but nothing major.

Yeah, the front cup holders and that wasted space between the driver and passenger are my only complaints too.

@Corey
Exactly! It’s such a missed opportunity for extra storage or something more useful.

I agree that visibility is crucial. We spend so much time inside the car, so it’s a big deal. I also love the iX for its instant power and that awesome sound system.

Adi said:
I agree that visibility is crucial. We spend so much time inside the car, so it’s a big deal. I also love the iX for its instant power and that awesome sound system.

Are you talking about the Harman Kardon system?

@Nicol
Yeah, the Harman Kardon sounds great in mine!

@Nicol
Yep, though I bet the B&W system is even better. But I’m happy with what I got. It’s a quiet ride overall, which helps the sound quality.

I’m torn between the iX and Q8 as well. A couple of questions:

  1. Can you dim the screen brightness?
  2. How tall are you? Just wondering since fit is important.

Nicol said:
I’m torn between the iX and Q8 as well. A couple of questions:

  1. Can you dim the screen brightness?
  2. How tall are you? Just wondering since fit is important.

Yes, the screen brightness can be adjusted easily, and you can even turn off the center display with hand gestures.

I’m 6 feet tall, and while I love the iX, the seat depth is my one issue. My legs feel unsupported on long trips, but I’ve gotten used to it. Still, I wouldn’t trade the car for anything!

@Indigo
Are you driving the Q8? When you say seat depth, do you mean it’s uncomfortable because the seat isn’t long enough to support your legs, or is it more of a steering column issue?

Nicol said:
@Indigo
Are you driving the Q8? When you say seat depth, do you mean it’s uncomfortable because the seat isn’t long enough to support your legs, or is it more of a steering column issue?

Sorry, I meant the iX. The seat just isn’t long enough for proper leg support. I wish it had an extendable seat bottom like some other cars. But overall, no major complaints about the seat or the driving position.