Audi Q3 vs Lexus TX

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a range of trim levels tailored to different powertrains, including the TX 350, 500h hybrid, and 550h+ plug-in hybrid. The 550h+ stood out with its standard panoramic glass roof and striking Matador Red Mica paint. While the exterior maintained a large grille and sharp bi-LED headlights, the interior featured ambient lighting and suede trim, though it fell short of luxury standards due to the presence of basic plastics. The redesigned door handles, which operated through pressure rather than mechanical levers, were a unique touch, but some might have preferred more attention to cabin detail.

The 2026 Audi Q3 aimed for a more SUV-like appearance with a tall front end and elongated hood, though its design was cluttered with faux air intakes and textured plastic. The Q3 featured programmable daytime running lights and OLED taillights, enhancing its modern look. The interior boasted leather upholstery and wood dashboard trim, with a distinct design thanks to padded materials and concave surfaces. Despite some plastic elements, the overall quality matched its entry-luxury price point. Audi's decision to standardize sportier S Line styling and offer larger wheel options added to its appeal.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of powertrains, with the base model producing 317 horsepower from a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine. The 550h+ plug-in hybrid, however, delivered an impressive 404 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system. The TX provided multiple driving modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom, allowing drivers to tailor their experience. The AWD system offered flexibility, distributing power between the front and rear wheels as needed. The 550h+ excelled in providing a smooth and quiet ride, with a suspension that absorbed bumps effortlessly.

The 2026 Audi Q3 featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, now producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This improvement allowed the Q3 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The new seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox replaced the previous eight-speed automatic transmission, maintaining standard AWD. While the Q3 was quicker than some competitors, its transmission and steering calibration made it less agile at low speeds. At higher speeds, the Q3 offered a refined and composed ride, with laminated acoustic glass reducing wind noise.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ provided standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control and heated and cooled front seats. The spacious third row accommodated adults comfortably, with a recline function and USB-C ports. However, folding the second row flat required a specific sequence of lever flips. The TX offered excellent cargo space, with up to 97 cubic feet available when the second and third rows were folded. The vehicle's towing capacity reached 5,000 pounds, making it versatile for various needs.

The 2026 Audi Q3 grew in size, offering more cargo space than its predecessor. With the second-row bench seat scooted forward, the Q3 provided 29 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 50 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. While first-row headroom decreased slightly, the Q3 maximized interior space effectively. The new control layout, with a bar replacing traditional stalks, freed up space for cupholders and a wireless charger. The Q3's 1,500-pound towing capacity was competitive within its segment.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch touchscreen, though some functions lacked polish, such as the inability to manually input satellite radio stations. The steering wheel's multi-functional buttons were confusing, complicating adaptive cruise control setup. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but connectivity issues occasionally arose. The TX offered a clear back-up camera and an Advanced Park system for automated parking. With seven USB ports and wireless charging, device connectivity was well-supported.

The 2026 Audi Q3 introduced the Digital Stage screen setup, combining an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch touchscreen. The MMI infotainment system, based on Android Automotive OS, included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional Technology Package added a head-up display, while the Infotainment Package featured a Sonos audio system. The Q3's voice recognition system, integrated with ChatGPT, offered natural-language commands for various functions.

The 2026 Lexus TX came standard with Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition. Proactive Driving Assist, which applied brakes or steering when necessary, was a feature some drivers preferred to disable. The TX 350 and 500h received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, while the IIHS awarded the TX a mix of "Good" and "Acceptable" scores in crash tests.

The 2026 Audi Q3 offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitors. An optional Driver Assistance Package added a 360-degree camera system and Park Assist Plus. While crash-test ratings were unavailable, the outgoing model's mixed performance indicated potential for improvement.