Audi Q5 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. The exterior design retained the large spindle grille and sharp bi-LED headlights, while the rear featured LED lighting and a small roof spoiler. Inside, the TX provided ambient lighting and suede trim, but the material quality fell short of luxury standards. The redesigned door handles were a unique touch, though some might have preferred more attention to cabin detail.

The 2026 Audi Q5 maintained a clean, classic exterior design, with a distinctive front fascia featuring thin headlights and a wide grille. The District Green paint and S Line Black Optic Package added a striking appearance, though the grille's honeycomb design appeared less impressive up close. The rear bumper and lighting were sharp, but the overall side proportions seemed compromised. Inside, the Q5 combined tasteful elements like sculpted seats and a four-spoke steering wheel with an abundance of shiny black plastic and disjointed screens. The interior had its quirks, such as the awkward door handles and complicated gear selector.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of powertrain options, with the base model delivering 317 horsepower from a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The 550h+ plug-in hybrid, however, generated 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+ delivered a smooth and quiet ride, with a suspension that absorbed bumps effortlessly, making it ideal for long road trips.

The 2026 Audi Q5 featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 268 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Audi's quattro AWD and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission were standard, though the transmission exhibited some delay and lurching at low speeds. The Q5 excelled in stability and ride comfort, with light steering and a capable suspension. The Prestige trim offered air springs, though they didn't significantly enhance ride quality. The Q5's fuel economy was competitive, with EPA ratings of 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined.

The 2026 Lexus TX provided standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, accommodating full-sized adults comfortably. However, folding the second row flat required a series of lever flips, which could be cumbersome. The front seats offered roominess but lacked thigh support. The TX boasted excellent cargo space, with up to 97 cubic feet available when the second and third rows were folded. All TX models could tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2026 Audi Q5 offered average headroom and legroom for its class, with cargo space measuring 27.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 56.9 cubic feet when folded. The standard panoramic sunroof provided an expansive view without compromising headroom. The Q5's towing capacity was impressive at 4,400 pounds. Standard features included heated power front seats, leather upholstery, and a three-zone climate system. The Premium Plus and Prestige trims added additional amenities, though the touchscreen-based climate controls could be inconvenient.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch color touchscreen, though some functions lacked polish, such as the inability to manually input satellite radio stations. The steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were not labeled, leading to confusion. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occasionally arose. The TX offered a clear back-up camera and an available Advanced Park system. With seven USB ports and wireless charging, device connectivity was well-supported.

The 2026 Audi Q5 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen and an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster, with a third touchscreen available on Prestige trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were supported, and the Bang & Olufsen stereo provided excellent sound quality. The Q5's technology impressed with real-time road and traffic depictions and the Park Assist Pro feature. Audi Connect Care offered remote start and smartphone connectivity for 10 years.

The 2026 Lexus TX included Safety System+ 3.0 as standard, featuring forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition. The adaptive cruise control worked well, though it could be slow to respond in busy traffic. The TX 350 and 500h received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, while the IIHS gave the TX a mix of "Acceptable" and "Good" scores.

The 2026 Audi Q5's 2025 model received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with a four-star rating for rollover resistance. The IIHS awarded the Q5 its Top Safety Pick+ designation. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Premium Plus trim added forward cross-traffic alert and lane-keep assist.