2021 Lexus RX vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille, emphasizing width with horizontal elements. The body had crisp character lines, and the rear showcased bold taillights, contributing to its classy and modern appearance. The plug-in hybrid version, with S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, stood out even more, offering standard 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Q5 was equally classy and modern, with a focus on technology without clutter. The interior boasted high-quality materials like real wood and metal, and the 10.1-inch touchscreen was strategically placed for easy access. The second row was well-appointed with standard leather seating surfaces.

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased the modern design aesthetic of Lexus with its large grille, angular headlamps, shapely body, and floating roof. It was available in five variants, including the RX, RX F Sport, RXL, RX Hybrid, and RXL Hybrid, each catering to different preferences. The RX retained the elongated headlights and refined front end from the 2020 model, addressing previous criticisms. Standard features included 18-inch aluminum wheels, LED lighting, and rear privacy glass. The F Sport Appearance package added sporty elements like 20-inch wheels and unique fascia. Inside, the RX offered a well-appointed interior with standard features like NuLuxe-trimmed seats and power-adjustable front seats. However, the center console design and infotainment system were considered dated compared to competitors.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with an additional 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque from a 14.1-kWh battery, resulting in a total output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup provided impressive acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds, and achieved 65 MPGe combined. The Q5 PHEV featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with Quattro all-wheel drive and offered various driving modes for battery management. Its handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2021 Lexus RX, RXL, and RX F-Sport were powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX Hybrid models combined a V6 engine with three electric motors, producing 308 hp and offering AWD. The RX achieved 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the hybrid models managed up to 31 mpg in the city. The RX F-Sport added adaptive variable suspension and sportier features. The RX was a comfortable cruiser, with the F-Sport model providing a bit more excitement. It reached 0-60 mph in 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2021 Audi Q5 offered a well-balanced interior with 25.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 53.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The second row provided 37.8 inches of legroom, 37.7 inches of headroom, and 56.5 inches of shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and ventilation options. The interior design was uncluttered, with smartly laid-out controls and storage options.

The 2021 Lexus RX provided functional seating for five in the two-row models and up to seven in the three-row RXL versions. Front-seat occupants enjoyed ample space, while the second row was suitable for adults. The third row in the RXL was tight for any age. Cargo space in the RX was limited, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The RXL offered 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 23 cubic feet behind the second, and 58.5 cubic feet with all seats folded. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi’s MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster. The system offered three customizable views and was paired with color/mood-adjustable LED ambient lighting. The Prestige Package included navigation, and the Integrated Toll Module was standard. A Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system was available, and wireless Apple CarPlay was included.

The 2021 Lexus RX came standard with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, dual-zone climate control, and a nine-speaker sound system. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system. The infotainment system, while functional, was not the most user-friendly. The Remote Touch controller was included with the larger screen but took up valuable space. The RX lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top ratings except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, Audi Pre Sense, and various driver-assistance options like adaptive cruise control and a top-view camera system.

The 2021 Lexus RX received the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation, with Good marks in crashworthiness tests. The NHTSA rated the RX models four out of five stars overall. Standard safety features included 10 airbags, blind-spot monitoring, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which offered a suite of driver-assist technologies. However, it lacked the advanced hands-off piloting features found in some competitors.