2025 Audi Q5 vs 2026 Lexus NX
Comparison Overview
The most significant numerical divergence between the 2025 Audi Q5 and the 2026 Lexus NX is the fuel economy, with the NX achieving an exceptional 40 MPG combined compared to the Q5's 26 MPG combined—a 14 MPG advantage. Power output also favors the Lexus, as the NX offers 240 hp against the Audi's 201 hp. Conversely, the Q5 possesses superior low-end torque at 236 lb-ft versus the NX's unknown figure (in this data set), though the Audi is significantly pricier at an MSRP of $45,400 versus the NX's $44,175. Dimensionally, the vehicles are close, but the Q5 is slightly longer at 184.3 inches and offers 25.9 cu ft of cargo space, marginally more than the NX's 22.7 cu ft. This comparison pits efficiency and power (NX) against a slight cargo edge and premium drivetrain (Q5's standard AWD).
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2026 Lexus NX
The 2026 Lexus NX is the clear choice for commuters due to its significantly higher 40 MPG combined fuel economy rating.
2025 Audi Q5
The 2025 Audi Q5 offers marginally more utility with 25.9 cu ft of cargo capacity compared to the NX's 22.7 cu ft.
2026 Lexus NX
The 2026 Lexus NX provides 240 hp, translating to better straight-line acceleration potential than the Q5's 201 hp.
2026 Lexus NX
The 2026 Lexus NX costs $1,225 less than the Audi Q5 while offering 39 more horsepower and superior fuel economy.
Choose the Audi Q5 if...
- You prioritize standard All-Wheel Drive performance over Front-Wheel Drive efficiency.
- You need the maximum available utility with 25.9 cu ft of cargo volume.
- You prefer the precise shift control of a 7-speed automated manual transmission over a CVT.
Choose the Lexus NX if...
- Maximizing fuel efficiency is crucial, given the 40 MPG combined rating.
- You are seeking the best power-to-price ratio with 240 hp for only $44,175.
- You prefer the slightly more compact exterior dimensions (183.5 inches long).
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Audi Q5 | Lexus NX |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 184.3" | 183.5" |
| Width | 74.5" | 73.4" |
| Height | 65.5" | 66.1" |
| Wheelbase | 111.0" | 105.9" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Audi | Lexus |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Departure Warning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electronic Stability Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Traction Control System | ✓ | ✓ |
| LATCH System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | ✓ | ✓ |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Multi-Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | — |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Fog Lights | — | ✓ |
| Front Height Adjustable Headrests | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Audi | Lexus |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 2.0 L | 2.5 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 4 | inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | gas | hybrid |
| Horsepower | 201 hp | 240 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft | — |
| Number of Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Audi | Lexus |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 7-speed automated manual | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | all wheel drive | front wheel drive |
| Center Differential Type | Limited Slip | — |
| Hill Descent Control | ✓ | — |
Fuel
| Feature | Audi | Lexus |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (recommended) | premium unleaded (recommended) |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 23/29 MPG | 42/38 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 26 MPG | 40 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 425.5/536.5 mi. | 609.0/551.0 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 18.5 gal. | 14.5 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Audi | Lexus |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Transmission Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electric Power Steering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Parking Sensors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Parking Sensors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Universal Remote Transmitter | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seatback Storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Leather Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Steering Wheel | ✓ | — |
| Three Zone Climate Control | ✓ | — |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts with Fan Control | ✓ | — |
| Interior Air Filtration | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror | ✓ | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | — | ✓ |
| Dual Zone Climate Control | — | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Audi | Lexus |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 10.1 in | 9.8 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stereo Power | 180W | — |
| Speaker System | 10 | 10 |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Android Auto (Wired) | ✓ | — |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | — | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | — | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | — | 3 months |
Power Feature
| Feature | Audi | Lexus |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 4 |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reverse Tilt Passenger Mirror | — | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Audi | Lexus |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 39.6 in. | 38.3 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 40.9 in. | 41.0 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 57.7 in. | 56.3 in. |
| Seat Material: Leather | ✓ | — |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | 8-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | 8-way |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Passenger Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Front Hip Room | — | 56.3 in. |
| Seat Material: Leatherette | — | ✓ |
Rearseats
| Feature | Audi | Lexus |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 39.3 in. | 38.5 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 38.0 in. | 36.1 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 56.5 in. | 54.0 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reclining Rear Seats | ✓ | ✓ |
| Folding Rear Seat Feature | ✓ | — |
| Pass-Thru Center Armrest | ✓ | — |
| Rear Hip Room | — | 52.5 in. |
| Folding Center Armrest | — | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Audi | Lexus |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Material | Alloy | — |
| Wheel Size | 18 x 8.0 in | 18 x 7.5 in |
| Tire Type | All Season | — |
| Tire Size | 235/60R18 | 235/60R18 |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | — |
| Spare Tire Location | Inside Mounted | — |
| Wheel Finish | — | Painted Alloy |
| Run Flat Tires | — | ✓ |
Suspension
| Feature | Audi | Lexus |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Audi | Lexus |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 6 yr./ 70000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 12 yr./ unlimited mi. | 6 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 yr./ unlimited mi. | 4 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Hybrid Component Warranty | — | 8 yr./ 100000 mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | — | 1 yr./ 10000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Audi Q5 and 2026 Lexus NX.
What is the primary mechanical difference between the 2025 Audi Q5 and the 2026 Lexus NX powertrain?
The Audi Q5 uses a 201 hp engine paired with a 7-speed automated manual transmission and standard AWD. In contrast, the Lexus NX delivers 240 hp with a continuously variable-speed automatic transmission and standard FWD configuration.
How much more expensive is the 2025 Audi Q5 compared to the 2026 Lexus NX?
The 2025 Audi Q5 carries an MSRP of $45,400, making it $1,225 more expensive than the 2026 Lexus NX, which starts at $44,175.
Which crossover provides superior fuel efficiency for highway driving?
The 2026 Lexus NX is significantly superior on the highway, achieving 38 MPG. The 2025 Audi Q5 trails considerably with an EPA rating of 29 MPG on the highway.
Does the Audi Q5 have more interior storage than the Lexus NX?
Yes, the Audi Q5 offers 25.9 cubic feet of cargo capacity, which is 3.2 cubic feet greater than the 22.7 cubic feet provided by the 2026 Lexus NX.
Are both vehicles equipped with AWD standard?
No, the 2025 Audi Q5 comes standard with all-wheel drive. The provided specification for the 2026 Lexus NX lists front-wheel drive as the standard configuration.
Which vehicle offers better low-end responsiveness based on torque figures?
The Audi Q5 generates 236 lb-ft of torque, which is a known specification, suggesting strong initial pull. The specific torque output for the 240 hp Lexus NX is not provided for a direct comparison of low-end feel.
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