Audi Q3 vs BMW X1
Value retention, real cost and monthly money, compared on the same 2026 South African data.
Too close to call on resale: both keep about 61% of their value over three years. Decide on the deal, not the badge.
Both curves, one chart
Head to head
| Q3 | X1 | |
|---|---|---|
| New price (from) | R 814 200 | R 813 899 |
| ±Monthly instalment | R 14 231/m | R 14 226/m |
| Retained after 1 year | 80% | 80% |
| Retained after 3 years | 61% | 61% |
| Value after 3 years | R 498 481 | R 498 297 |
| Lost to depreciation (3y) | R 315 719 | R 315 602 |
| Value after 5 years | R 371 952 | R 371 815 |
| Our tier | Premium (established) | Premium (established) |
Audi Q3 →
One of Audi's best sellers in South Africa, the Q3 entered its third generation here in 2026 in SUV and Sportback body styles. Petrol and diesel engines are both offered, which is now rare in the segment. Used stock from the previous generation is plentiful and holds value reasonably well for a premium SUV.
Known for: family-friendly premium compact suv
BMW X1 →
Since 2010 the X1 has been BMW South Africa's entry SUV and a consistent volume seller for the brand. The current generation is sold alongside its electric iX1 twin. Resale is solid by premium standards because demand for compact premium SUVs stays strong here.
Known for: entry bmw suv with steady demand
Common questions
Which holds value better, the Audi Q3 or the BMW X1?
They are close to inseparable: 61% vs 61% retained after three years. Buy on price, spec and the deal you can get, not on resale.
Which is cheaper to own over three years?
Depreciation is the biggest ownership cost. The Audi Q3 loses about R 315 719 over three years and the BMW X1 loses about R 315 602. Fuel, insurance and servicing can narrow or widen that, but the depreciation gap is the number to start from.
What do they cost per month?
On typical finance (10% deposit, 72 months, 11.75%), the Audi Q3 runs about R 14 231 per month and the BMW X1 about R 14 226, before fees and insurance.
Keep going
Modelled estimates on a retail basis; spec levels and real transaction prices vary.