Lexus Rx 350 vs Audi Q5: Which Luxury Suv Reigns?
Choosing a luxury SUV can feel overwhelming, but what if we narrowed it down to two top contenders? The Lexus RX 350 and the Audi Q5 both offer a blend of comfort, performance, and premium features, making them popular choices for discerning drivers. But which one comes out on top?
This comparison dives deep into the details, helping you decide which SUV best suits your needs and preferences. We’ll explore everything from performance and handling to interior design and technology. Get ready to discover the strengths and weaknesses of both the Lexus RX 350 and the Audi Q5.
Whether you prioritize reliability and a smooth ride or sporty handling and advanced tech, this guide will provide the insights you need. We’ll examine the key differences, helping you make an informed decision when choosing your next luxury vehicle. Let’s see how these two titans stack up against each other.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Lexus RX 350 | Audi Q5 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.4L Turbo I4 | 2.0L Turbo I4 |
| Horsepower | 275 hp | 261 hp |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft | 273 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed Automatic | 7-speed S tronic |
| Drivetrain | FWD/AWD | FWD/AWD |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | 22/29 mpg (FWD) | 23/29 mpg |
| Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seats) | 29.6 cu. ft. | 25.8 cu. ft. |
| Infotainment Screen | 14-inch Touchscreen | 10.1-inch Touchscreen |
| Standard Safety Features | Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 | Audi Pre Sense Basic |
| Warranty (Basic) | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Base Curb Weight | 4,155 lbs | 4,081 lbs |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Engine and Performance
- Lexus Rx 350: Offers a 2.4L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 275 hp. Known for its smooth and refined power delivery, the RX 350 prioritizes comfort over aggressive performance. Its acceleration is adequate for everyday driving but may feel less sporty than some competitors.
- Audi Q5: Features a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine generating 261 hp. Provides brisk acceleration and a more engaging driving experience compared to the RX 350. However, some drivers find the Q5’s engine noise less refined.
- Winner: Audi Q5
Fuel Efficiency
- Lexus Rx 350: Achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg combined. Offers competitive fuel economy for its class, making it a relatively efficient choice for daily commutes and longer trips.
- Audi Q5: Gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined. The Q5 generally offers slightly better fuel economy, potentially saving owners money on fuel costs over time.
- Winner: Audi Q5
Interior Comfort and Design
- Lexus Rx 350: Known for its luxurious and well-crafted interior with high-quality materials. Provides a spacious and comfortable cabin, emphasizing quietness and a smooth ride. Some may find the infotainment system less intuitive than others.
- Audi Q5: Features a modern and stylish interior with a focus on technology. Offers comfortable seating and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Q5’s interior design is more driver-focused and sporty.
- Winner: Lexus RX 350
Infotainment and Technology
- Lexus Rx 350: Equipped with a large touchscreen display and a suite of advanced driver-assistance features. Offers a user-friendly interface but can be less intuitive than some competitors. Includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Audi Q5: Boasts a cutting-edge infotainment system with a crisp display and intuitive controls. Features include a virtual cockpit and a range of connected services. The technology is generally considered more advanced and integrated.
- Winner: Audi Q5
Cargo Space
- Lexus Rx 350: Provides a generous cargo area, making it practical for carrying luggage and other items. Offers ample storage space for everyday needs. The rear seats can be folded down to expand the cargo capacity.
- Audi Q5: Offers a competitive amount of cargo space, though slightly less than the RX 350. Still provides enough room for most needs, but may feel tighter for larger items.
- Winner: Lexus RX 350
Safety Features
- Lexus Rx 350: Comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including advanced driver-assistance features such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Provides a comprehensive suite of safety technologies.
- Audi Q5: Offers a range of standard and available safety features, including Audi pre sense basic and front. Provides robust safety features, though some may be optional.
- Winner: Lexus RX 350
Ride Quality and Handling
- Lexus Rx 350: Prioritizes a smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. Its handling is more geared towards comfort and ease of driving.
- Audi Q5: Offers a sportier handling experience with responsive steering and a more controlled ride. The Q5 provides a good balance between comfort and performance.
- Winner: Lexus RX 350
Price and Value
- Lexus Rx 350: Generally has a competitive starting price and holds its value well over time. Offers a strong value proposition considering its luxury features and reliability.
- Audi Q5: Has a similar starting price, though options can quickly increase the cost. Offers a premium experience but may come with a higher price tag compared to the RX 350.
- Winner: Lexus RX 350
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Ride Comfort | Lexus RX 350 |
| Handling | Audi Q5 |
| Infotainment System | Lexus RX 350 |
| Fuel Economy | Tie |
| Interior Design | Audi Q5 |
| Reliability | Lexus RX 350 |
What They Have in Common
- Seating Capacity: Both the Lexus RX 350 and the Audi Q5 comfortably seat up to five passengers, making them suitable for families and individuals alike.
- Standard Safety Features: Both SUVs come equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including advanced driver-assistance systems designed to enhance safety on the road.
- Drivetrain Options: Both vehicles offer both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, providing flexibility for different driving conditions and preferences.
- Warranty Coverage: Both the Lexus RX 350 and the Audi Q5 offer similar basic warranty coverage, providing peace of mind to buyers regarding potential repairs and maintenance costs.
- Infotainment: Both cars offer modern infotainment systems including touchscreens and smartphone integration.
Lexus Rx 350 Vs Audi Q5 Buying Guide
Performance and Handling
The Lexus RX 350 and Audi Q5 both offer a blend of performance and handling, but with distinct characteristics. The RX 350 prioritizes a comfortable ride, with a smooth engine and a focus on isolating the driver and passengers from road imperfections. Its steering is light, making it easy to maneuver in city driving. The Q5, on the other hand, leans towards a sportier feel. Its suspension is firmer, and its steering is more responsive, providing a more engaging driving experience, especially on winding roads. The Q5’s available engine options offer more power, contributing to quicker acceleration and a more dynamic feel.
Interior Comfort and Features
When it comes to interior comfort and features, both the Lexus RX 350 and Audi Q5 offer premium experiences, but they approach luxury differently. The RX 350 often boasts a spacious and well-appointed cabin with high-quality materials and a focus on long-term reliability. Its infotainment system is user-friendly, and it often includes a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. The Q5 features a modern and stylish interior with a sleek design and advanced technology integration. Its infotainment system is also highly rated, and it offers a range of premium options, such as upgraded audio systems and luxurious trim options.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
Fuel efficiency and running costs are important considerations for any vehicle purchase. Both the Lexus RX 350 and Audi Q5 offer competitive fuel economy figures within their respective classes. The RX 350 typically achieves slightly better fuel economy, particularly in city driving, thanks to its efficient engine. Its reputation for reliability also contributes to lower long-term running costs, as it often requires fewer repairs and maintenance. The Q5’s fuel economy is still quite respectable, and its overall running costs are competitive, but potential buyers should consider the potential for higher maintenance costs associated with its more complex engineering.
Technology and Infotainment
Both the Lexus RX 350 and Audi Q5 are equipped with advanced technology and infotainment systems, but the user experience differs. The RX 350 often features a user-friendly infotainment interface with a large touchscreen display and intuitive controls. It typically includes features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. The Q5 boasts a cutting-edge infotainment system with a high-resolution display, responsive controls, and a suite of connected services. It often incorporates a digital instrument cluster and advanced driver-assistance features, providing a modern and tech-savvy experience. The choice often comes down to personal preference.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a paramount concern for any car buyer, and both the Lexus RX 350 and Audi Q5 excel in this area. Both vehicles are equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including advanced driver-assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. They also typically receive high safety ratings from independent testing agencies. The RX 350 often includes a slightly more extensive standard safety package, while the Q5 provides a range of optional safety features, allowing buyers to customize their safety configuration. Both models offer peace of mind.
Resale Value and Reliability
Resale value and reliability are important factors to consider when purchasing a vehicle, as they can significantly impact the total cost of ownership. The Lexus RX 350 is typically known for its excellent resale value and outstanding reliability. Lexus vehicles consistently rank high in reliability surveys, making the RX 350 a sound investment. The Audi Q5 also holds its value well, but its resale value might be slightly lower than that of the RX 350. While the Q5 is generally reliable, its maintenance costs might be higher due to its more complex engineering. The RX 350 offers a strong combination of value retention and dependability.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Lexus RX 350 If…
- You prioritize a luxurious and comfortable ride.
- You appreciate a user-friendly infotainment system.
- You value a reputation for reliability.
- You want a spacious interior with ample cargo room.
Buy Audi Q5 If…
- You prefer a sportier driving experience.
- You desire a more modern and tech-forward interior design.
- You value a brand known for its performance and handling.
- You want a slightly more compact SUV.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences in engine performance?
The Audi Q5 often provides a slightly more powerful engine offering quicker acceleration and a sportier driving experience. The Lexus RX 350, while offering adequate performance, prioritizes a smooth and refined engine, emphasizing comfort and fuel efficiency. The Q5 might offer a wider range of engine options, including hybrid or plug-in hybrid variants, depending on the model year.
Which SUV offers a more luxurious interior?
Both SUVs offer luxurious interiors, but the approach differs. The Lexus RX 350 typically focuses on traditional luxury with high-quality materials and a spacious cabin. The Audi Q5 often features a more modern and tech-focused interior with a sleek design and advanced infotainment features. It comes down to individual preference on what you consider luxury.
How do the infotainment systems compare?
Both feature advanced infotainment systems. The Lexus RX 350 often offers a user-friendly interface with a large touchscreen and intuitive controls, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Audi Q5 features a cutting-edge system with a high-resolution display, responsive controls, and connected services. Both offer good features, but the user interface may sway the buying decision.
Which SUV is better for fuel efficiency?
The Lexus RX 350 typically achieves slightly better fuel economy, especially in city driving. Its efficient engine contributes to lower running costs. The Audi Q5’s fuel economy is still respectable, but it might be slightly less efficient, especially with higher-performance engine options. Consider your driving habits when making a decision.
How do their safety features compare?
Both SUVs are equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including advanced driver-assistance systems. They typically receive high safety ratings from independent testing agencies. The Lexus RX 350 might offer a slightly more extensive standard safety package, while the Audi Q5 provides a range of optional safety features. Both are safe choices.
What about resale value and reliability?
The Lexus RX 350 is known for its excellent resale value and outstanding reliability, often ranking high in reliability surveys. The Audi Q5 also holds its value well, but its resale value might be slightly lower. While the Q5 is generally reliable, its maintenance costs might be higher. Lexus typically offers higher value retention.
Which SUV is better suited for city driving?
The Lexus RX 350 often excels in city driving due to its comfortable ride, light steering, and efficient engine. Its maneuverability makes it easy to navigate urban environments. The Audi Q5 is also suitable for city driving but may have a slightly firmer ride and more responsive steering, which may be more desirable in other driving situations.
Final Verdict
Both the Lexus RX 350 and Audi Q5 are excellent luxury SUVs, each with its own strengths. The Lexus RX 350 shines with its exceptional reliability, comfortable ride, and strong resale value, making it a practical and dependable choice. The Audi Q5 impresses with its sporty handling, modern technology, and stylish design. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences and priorities.
Winner: Lexus RX 350