2025 Lexus IS vs 2026 Audi A3
Comparison Overview
The 2025 Lexus IS leaps into the compact luxury arena with a spirited, rear-wheel-drive punch, boasting 241 hp and a mandated premium fuel requirement. In contrast, the subtly smaller 2026 Audi A3, standing at 177.3 inches long, offers accessible efficiency with its standard all-wheel drive and excellent 28 MPG combined, running on regular unleaded. The Lexus commands a slight $435 premium over the A3's $40,100 starting price, but the IS delivers a significant 40 hp advantage over the Audi's 201 hp. While the A3 emphasizes practicality with superior fuel economy, the Lexus rewards drivers with better low-end grunt (258 lb-ft vs. 236 lb-ft) and a more generous 10.8 cu ft of cargo space compared to the A3's 8.3 cu ft. This showdown pits traditional RWD performance flair against modern, intelligent AWD versatility.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2026 Audi A3
The 2026 Audi A3 wins for daily commuting due to its superior combined fuel economy rating of 28 MPG.
2025 Lexus IS
The 2025 Lexus IS provides noticeably more usable space with 10.8 cu ft of cargo capacity compared to the Audi A3's 8.3 cu ft.
2025 Lexus IS
The Lexus IS appeals more to driving enthusiasts with its powerful 241 hp output and standard rear-wheel-drive configuration.
2026 Audi A3
The 2026 Audi A3 offers better value by achieving higher efficiency and using regular unleaded fuel at a lower starting MSRP of $40,100.
Choose the Lexus IS if...
- You prioritize outright power, enjoying the 241 hp output for spirited acceleration.
- You prefer the balanced handling dynamics traditionally associated with rear-wheel drive.
- You need the superior 10.8 cu ft cargo capacity for weekend trips or daily hauling.
Choose the Audi A3 if...
- Maximizing fuel economy is critical, thanks to its 34 MPG highway rating.
- You live in areas with inclement weather and require the assured grip of all-wheel drive.
- You wish to save money by running on less expensive regular unleaded gasoline.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Lexus IS | Audi A3 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 185.4" | 177.3" |
| Width | 72.4" | 71.5" |
| Height | 56.5" | 56.2" |
| Wheelbase | 110.2" | 103.7" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Lexus | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Rear Side-Mounted Airbags | — | ✓ |
| Rear Solid Disc Brakes | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Lexus | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 2.0 L | 2.0 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 4 | inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | gas | mild hybrid |
| Horsepower | 241 hp @ 5200 rpm | 201 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft @ 1650 rpm | 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 | Lexus | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain Type | rear wheel drive | all wheel drive |
| Center Differential Type | — | Limited Slip |
| Hill Descent Control | — | ✓ |
Fuel
| Feature | Lexus | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (required) | regular unleaded |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 21/31 MPG | 24/34 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 25 MPG | 28 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 365.4/539.4 mi. | 348.0/493.0 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 17.4 gal. | 14.5 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Lexus | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Transmission Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | ✓ | — |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electric Power Steering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ✓ | — |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seatback Storage | ✓ | — |
| Leather Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Zone Climate Control | ✓ | — |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Parking Sensors | — | ✓ |
| Rear Parking Sensors | — | ✓ |
| Driver Assisted Parking Assist | — | ✓ |
| Cruise Control | — | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | — | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | — | ✓ |
| Three Zone Climate Control | — | ✓ |
| Interior Air Filtration | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Lexus | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 8.0 in | 10.1 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Speaker System | 10 | 6 |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | ✓ | — |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | 3 months | — |
Power Feature
| Feature | Lexus | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 4 |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | — |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Moonroof Type | — | 1st Row Power Glass Extended |
| Remote Keyless Entry | — | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Lexus | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 38.2 in. | 36.8 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 44.8 in. | 41.2 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 55.9 in. | 54.8 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 54.3 in. | — |
| Seat Material: Leatherette | ✓ | — |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | 8-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | 8-way |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Seat Material: Leather | — | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | — | Power |
| Passenger Seat Lumbar Support | — | Power |
| Driver Seat Heating | — | Multi-level |
| Passenger Seat Heating | — | Multi-level |
Rearseats
| Feature | Lexus | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 36.9 in. | 36.6 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 32.2 in. | 35.2 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 53.4 in. | 53.0 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 54.0 in. | — |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | ✓ |
| Folding Center Armrest | ✓ | — |
| Folding Rear Seat Feature | — | ✓ |
| Pass-Thru Center Armrest | — | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Lexus | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Material | Alloy | Alloy |
| Wheel Size | 18 x 8.5 in | — |
| Tire Type | All Season | All Season |
| Tire Size | 235/45R18 | 225/45R17 |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Spare Tire Location | Inside Mounted | Inside Mounted |
| Wheel Diameter | — | 17 in |
Suspension
| Feature | Lexus | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Lexus | Audi |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 6 yr./ 70000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 6 yr./ unlimited mi. | 12 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 yr./ unlimited mi. | 4 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | 1 yr./ 10000 mi. | 3 yr./ 30000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Lexus IS and 2026 Audi A3.
Which sedan offers better fuel costs between the Lexus IS and the Audi A3?
The 2026 Audi A3 is significantly cheaper to run, achieving 28 MPG combined on regular unleaded fuel. The Lexus IS requires premium unleaded and is rated lower at 25 MPG combined.
Is the horsepower difference between these two cars noticeable?
Yes, the 2025 Lexus IS holds a 40 hp advantage over the 2026 Audi A3, delivering 241 hp versus the Audi's 201 hp, which should translate to quicker acceleration times.
How do the drivetrain layouts affect driving feel?
The Lexus IS uses a rear-wheel-drive system, emphasizing balanced performance feel, while the A3 features standard all-wheel drive, prioritizing stability and traction in varied conditions.
Does one car have significantly more trunk space?
The Lexus IS offers nearly 2.5 cubic feet more room, featuring a 10.8 cu ft cargo capacity, compared to the Audi A3's tighter 8.3 cu ft.
Which car has the higher base price?
The 2025 Lexus IS starts slightly higher at $40,535, making it $435 more expensive than the 2026 Audi A3, which starts at $40,100.
What are the size differences between the two compact sedans?
The Lexus IS is longer at 185.4 inches, whereas the Audi A3 is the more compact package, measuring 177.3 inches in length.
More Mid-Range Sedans ($30k-$50k)
View allVehicle Details
Compare More Vehicles
Use our interactive comparison tool to compare up to 4 vehicles at once
Open Comparison Tool