2021 Audi Q5 vs 2021 Lexus NX

In 2021, the Lexus NX came in three versions: the NX 300, NX 300 F Sport, and the NX 300h hybrid. For this comparison, only the NX 300 and 300 F Sport gasoline models were considered, specifically focusing on the performance-oriented F Sport model. The 2021 NX showcased Lexus' signature design features, with sharp edges and sculpted lines that gave it a familial resemblance to both the smaller Lexus UX and the larger RX. Its dimensions were quite similar to the Toyota RAV4. Standard features included power-folding outside mirrors and 17-inch wheels.

The NX F Sport elevated its sporty appeal with a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, lower bumper enhanced with chrome trim, redesigned rear bumper and taillights, laser fog light housing, and an enlarged exhaust opening. It rode on 18-inch F Sport wheels with an option for all-season or summer tires. Inside, the F Sport variant stood out with quilted NuLuxe sport seats exclusive to the F Sport line. Customers could choose from a range of interior color schemes, including a distinctive Circuit Red, classic Black, and an Arctic White/Black combination. Additionally, leather and wood trim were available. Nevertheless, the car's gauge cluster, which maintained Lexus' traditional four-dial setup with a 4.2-inch multi-information display, appeared somewhat outdated compared to competitors like the 2022 Hyundai Tucson and 2021 Nissan Rogue.

The F Sport also incorporated a G-Force meter, derived from the Lexus LFA supercar, providing data on steering angle, throttle opening, and brake pressure. However, this feature felt more like a novelty in a primarily suburban vehicle. The center stack, although equipped with functional climate-control buttons and a rare CD player, looked somewhat archaic and cluttered, affecting the availability of open small-item storage space between the driver and passenger.

In contrast, the 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp, modern-looking crossover SUV that reflected Audi's design proficiency while maintaining its unique identity. It boasted an expressive front face, with LED headlights flanking the prominent Audi Singleframe grille. Clean character lines defined the body, and a greenhouse design added a protective shell effect. Bold rear taillights and exceptional fit and finish accentuated the Q5's classy and contemporary aesthetic. The Q5 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sported distinct S-Line trim and was available with standard 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels for a more commanding presence.

The interior of the Q5 was equally sophisticated, blending technology with a clean, uncluttered design. Controls were smartly grouped, and material selection was of the highest quality, featuring real wood, real metal, and well-crafted surfaces. The 10.1-inch touchscreen was ideally positioned at the top of the center stack for optimal driver visibility. The rear seats also offered standard leather seating surfaces, ensuring a premium feel for all passengers.

The 2021 Lexus NX 300 and 300 F Sport were powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Both models featured a six-speed automatic transmission, which, while functional, lagged behind the smoother-shifting, higher-speed transmissions seen in competitors. The NX accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in about seven seconds, a decent figure for its segment. Although the powertrain could get noisy under hard acceleration, the ride remained generally quiet and comfortable.

Front-wheel drive was standard, with an option for all-wheel drive (AWD) that could transfer up to 50% of the torque to the rear axle, but without individual-wheel torque vectoring. Fuel economy for the FWD model was rated at 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, with the AWD models achieving similar figures. The NX F Sport came with Active Sound Control for enhanced engine noise and an adaptive suspension system for improved driving dynamics, albeit with numb steering. The NX also offered Eco, Normal, and Sport drive modes, influencing throttle response and power-steering assist. The NX 300 had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and a top speed electronically limited to 124 mph.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV offered an elevated driving experience with its 14.1-kWh battery complementing the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder gasoline engine. This setup produced an impressive combined output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque, allowing the Q5 to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5 seconds. The PHEV delivered a combined fuel efficiency of 65 MPGe, with a gasoline-only rating of 27 mpg combined. It featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro all-wheel drive and could drive up to 20 miles on electric power alone depending on the charge.

The Q5 PHEV offered selectable driving modes to maximize efficiency or reserve battery power for later use, which was convenient for urban commuting or quiet neighborhood driving. The vehicle's power steering was speed-sensitive and, once drivers adjusted to its 38.4-foot turning radius, quite effective. A four-wheel independent suspension ensured a balanced ride with minimal body roll and good road feel, making the Q5 engaging to drive.

The interior of the 2021 Lexus NX was both stylish and comfortable, offering ample space in the front seats and adequate rear legroom for two adults on longer journeys. Available amenities included heated and ventilated seats. The NX featured a 60/40 split-folding rear seat for added flexibility. However, its cargo space was limited, with only 17.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down, placing it among the smallest in its class. Optional features included a power liftgate with kick sensor technology and power-folding rear seats.

The 2021 Audi Q5 excelled in balancing comfort and practicality. Its well-designed interior housed the battery pack beneath the luggage compartment floor, ensuring it didn't impact cargo space. With 25.1 cubic feet behind the second row and 53.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down, the Q5 offered more cargo space compared to the NX. Rear passengers enjoyed 37.8 inches of legroom, 37.7 inches of headroom, and 56.5 inches of shoulder room, providing comfortable seating for two adults and the possibility of accommodating a third adult for shorter distances. The front seats featured numerous comfort adjustments, including heating and ventilation in the Prestige trim. The Q5's interior also included smartly laid-out storage spaces, cupholders, and a convenient center-console armrest storage bin.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen as standard, with an optional 10.3-inch upgrade available via the Navigation package. This package included predictive traffic information, ETA calculation, and fuel station guidance. HomeLink integration was added for 2021, alongside Lexus Enform Destination Assist, which allowed voice-command operation. Standard technological features consisted of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a USB port, HD Radio, and a WiFi hotspot. The car also came with Lexus Enform Remote, accessible via a mobile app, which allowed remote engine start/stop, climate control adjustment, and more. The standard eight-speaker audio system could be upgraded to a 14-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV boasted Audi's latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which was highly user-friendly. The Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus offered a 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster with customizable views, enhancing the futuristic vibe of the cabin. Color/mood-adjustable LED ambient lighting further personalized the interior experience. The available Prestige Package included an advanced navigation system that optimized fuel and battery usage. Standard features across all Q5 models included an Integrated Toll Module, eliminating the need for external transponders. A Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system with 19 speakers and a 16-channel/755-watt amplifier was available on Premium Plus models and standard on the Prestige trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay provided seamless connectivity.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a suite of safety features that included a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, automatic high beams, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were now standard, and optional extras included park assist, a surround-view camera system, and adaptive headlights. Lexus Enform Safety Connect offered services such as emergency assistance, roadside assistance, automatic collision notification, and stolen-vehicle notification. The NX received the top "Good" ratings from the IIHS in all crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV was equipped with numerous safety features, including six airbags, an anti-lock braking system with brake assist, Audi Pre Sense basic occupant protection, low-speed collision assist, and electronic stability control. Advanced safety systems available included Audi Advanced Key, Audi Pre Sense rear, Audi Side Assist with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a top-view camera system. While the 2021 Q5 PHEV hadn’t been rated by IIHS at the time, the gasoline model of the same year had received top ratings in most categories and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.