Lexus RX 350 vs. Audi Q5 - Which midsize luxury SUV is best?One is known for its reliability and resale value, and the other for its technology and performance. We take a look at both of them.
The Lexus RX 350 is one of the most desirable luxury midsize Crossover/SUVs on the market today. That's not a stretch, especially when you consider that the RX was one of the segment's originators in the first place. In addition to being the innovator, the RX makes strong points by way of its reliability and resale value as well.
Known for its smooth ride, the Lexus RX 350 provides that and more. Start with the solitude of an extremely quiet interior and add a load of technology. The result is a crossover that does its best to indulge and pamper you.
The Audi Q5 is Audi's best-selling SUV for a good reason: It offers a potent mix of practicality, great driving manners, amenities and practicality. But it does come at a cost. The Q5 offers standard all-wheel-drive via Audi's Quattro system.
What motivates them?The Lexus RX is powered by a 2.4L I4 Turbo engine making 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. It drives the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The system includes steering column-mounted paddle-shift levers if you enjoy shifting on your own.
Lexus also offers the hybrid-powered RX 350h powered by the 2.5-liter Inline-4 plus an electric motor-generator with 246 combined horsepower.
A standard 2.0L I4 Turbo engine powers the Audi Q5. It provides 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Dubbed the 45 TFSI, it utilizes a 12-volt mild-hybrid system for added efficiency. It routes through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with Quattro all-wheel-drive.
How does the Lexus RX look?
Sleek and modern, the Lexus RX has a look that shows why it is so popular among buyers today. Start with the Lexus "spindle" grill to get the party started. It looks aggressive and sporty at the same time but still manages to be comfortable and relaxed, too. The ultimate cruiser, it looks fast even standing still, thanks to the angular shapes and cuts around the body. A blacked-out C-pillar makes the roof appear to be floating in place. The RX 350 includes unique styling for the F Sport models.
The Audi Q5 is conservative in style and function. Available in Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels, it now features a thinner and wider grille. At the rear, the Q5 includes horizontal trim and updated lighting that leads to the rear diffuser.
The Q5 rides on 19-inch double spoke wheels. The sport SQ5 model rides on 20-inch wheels.
It's what's inside that counts
Featuring upscale materials with outstanding fit and finish, the Lexus RX 350 is a sumptuously-equipped vehicle that makes many other vehicles jealous! Lexus has moved away from the touch pad to a now fully touchscreen 9.8 in center screen. From here, you can operate most internal functions of the vehicle, including navigation, audio system, climate control and smartphone integration. An available 14-inch infotainment display screen presents an even larger picture of what's going on with your vehicle. Cargo space measures up to 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seat but grows to 46.2 cubic feet when the second row is folded forward.
The Audi Q5 offers a well-designed dashboard that includes a 14.5-inch touchscreen display. Leather and wood help to set off the interior nicely.
There are 26.7 cubic feet behind the Q5's second row, which grows to 60.4 cubic feet when folded.
Which is best for me?
The Audi Q5 is a fine vehicle. Don't get us wrong. At the end of the day, this techno-laden wonder will offer a firm ride and admittedly great handling. But the bottom line is that it might just verge on the rough-riding side of the road.
The Lexus RX 350 will bring a vehicle you can drive for a substantial length of time without fatiguing or exhausting yourself. Featuring sumptuous interiors, a stellar ride, excellent fit and finish as well as exceptional reliability and resale value makes it immediately clear there is lot to like about the Lexus RX 350.
The Lexus RX is available now, at Lexus of Milwaukee
We are eager to show you these and other reasons why the Lexus RX 350 is the best vehicle for you. Please call the Lexus RX specialists at Napleton's Lexus of Milwaukee for more information and to schedule a test drive in the crossover of your dreams, today.