Lexus RX 350 vs Audi Q7: Which Luxury SUV is the Best Fit for You?

Choosing between the Lexus RX 350 and the Audi Q7 can be tough, especially when both SUVs offer such refined luxury, advanced tech, and smooth performance. In this comparison, we’ll dive deep into what sets these two apart, highlighting their pros, cons, and potential drawbacks, while still giving you an authentic overview of what to expect behind the wheel.

Both of these luxury SUVs have earned a reputation for reliability, comfort, and innovative features, but they cater to different needs. So whether you're a fan of Lexus’s smooth elegance or Audi’s dynamic precision, let’s break down everything you need to know.

Lexus RX 350 Overview

The Lexus RX 350 is a staple in the luxury SUV market. It’s known for its smooth ride, plush interior, and stellar reliability. Lexus focuses on creating a serene driving experience, and the RX 350 exemplifies that. But how does it stack up against its German rival, the Audi Q7?

Design and Exterior

The Lexus RX 350 offers a bold and aggressive look with its signature spindle grille and sharp LED headlights. The lines on the RX 350 are fluid but slightly aggressive—perfect for those who want a modern yet sophisticated SUV.

It’s slightly smaller than the Audi Q7, which may be a good thing for drivers who don’t want something too bulky. The size of the RX 350 makes it more manageable for city driving and tighter parking spaces.

Potential Drawback:

Some people might find the design of the RX 350 polarizing. It stands out, but not always in a good way for everyone.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the RX 350, you’re met with leather upholstery, wood trims, and soft-touch materials all around. The seats are incredibly comfortable, especially for long trips. Lexus has clearly focused on comfort over sportiness, and for some buyers, that’s a huge plus.

Cargo space isn’t massive though, which can be a drawback if you’re often lugging around larger items. However, the second-row seats offer generous legroom, even for taller passengers.

What Could Be Better:

The infotainment system can be a bit frustrating. The touchpad controller is hard to use on the go, especially compared to the simpler controls in the Audi Q7. Many drivers report that it’s too distracting to use while driving, which detracts from the otherwise serene experience in the RX 350.

Audi Q7 Overview

Now, turning to the Audi Q7, we’re stepping into a larger, more tech-heavy SUV. Audi is known for its sharp design and high-quality interiors, and the Q7 is no exception. The Q7 has a reputation for delivering a sportier ride compared to the RX 350, making it appealing for those who crave a more dynamic driving experience.

Design and Exterior

The Audi Q7 has a more understated yet elegant design. Audi has avoided over-the-top styling, opting for a sleek, modern aesthetic. It’s larger than the Lexus RX 350, which gives it a more commanding presence on the road.

One thing to note about the Q7: it looks a lot bigger. And that's because it is. It's 199.3 inches long compared to the RX 350’s 192.5 inches. This gives the Q7 more interior space, but it can also make it harder to park in tight spots or maneuver in smaller spaces.

Potential Drawback:

Some buyers might find the size of the Audi Q7 intimidating, especially if they’re used to smaller vehicles. It's a bit harder to park than the RX 350, and navigating narrow city streets might be more stressful in the Audi.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the Audi Q7, and you’re greeted with a tech-forward interior. The Virtual Cockpit system and dual-screen infotainment setup scream high-tech, but they’re surprisingly easy to use. It feels more modern than the RX 350’s system.

You’ll also find more cargo space in the Q7. It has three rows of seating, making it a true 7-seater compared to the 5-seater RX 350. If you’ve got a family or need extra space for passengers, the Q7 easily beats the RX in this category.

What Could Be Better:

While the third-row seating in the Audi Q7 is handy, it’s not particularly spacious. Adults might find it cramped on longer journeys. Plus, all that tech can come with a steep learning curve if you’re not used to advanced infotainment systems.

Performance and Engine Specs

When it comes to performance, the Lexus RX 350 and Audi Q7 are both capable SUVs, but they take different approaches.

Lexus RX 350 Performance

The Lexus RX 350 comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing around 295 horsepower. It’s paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth acceleration and a composed ride. The RX 350 isn’t exactly sporty, but it’s quiet and refined—perfect for those who want comfort over excitement.

Fuel efficiency is decent for its class. You can expect around 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with the front-wheel-drive model.

Drawback:

Don’t expect the RX 350 to be a thrilling ride. The engine feels adequate but lacks the punch you might get from rivals like the Audi Q7. If you want more spirited driving, you’ll likely be disappointed.

Audi Q7 Performance

The Audi Q7 offers more engine choices. The base model features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4, producing 261 horsepower, which feels more nimble than the Lexus. However, the Q7 really shines with its available 3.0-liter V6 that delivers 335 horsepower.

The Audi Q7’s Quattro all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction and handling, especially in bad weather conditions. The adaptive air suspension also helps deliver a smoother, more comfortable ride on rougher roads.

Potential Drawback:

Fuel economy isn't great, particularly with the V6 engine. The Q7 averages around 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway—numbers that fall short of the Lexus RX 350. So if you're looking to save at the pump, the Audi might not be the best choice.

Technology and Infotainment

Lexus RX 350 Technology

The Lexus RX 350 comes standard with plenty of features, but its infotainment system is where it falls short. The standard 8-inch screen (upgradeable to 12.3 inches) looks nice, but the Remote Touch Interface is difficult to use. Many drivers complain about the learning curve and the fact that it’s tricky to operate while driving.

That said, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard, which is a huge improvement over previous models that lacked smartphone integration.

Room for Improvement:

As mentioned before, the Remote Touchpad is far from intuitive. A simpler interface would go a long way in making the RX 350 more driver-friendly.

Audi Q7 Technology

In contrast, the Audi Q7’s tech setup is cutting-edge. The dual-screen MMI touch response system is intuitive, and the Audi Virtual Cockpit gives drivers a fully customizable display. The 10.1-inch upper screen controls navigation and media, while the lower screen handles climate control. It’s not only visually impressive but also very functional.

Plus, the Q7’s system integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well, making it easier for smartphone users to stay connected on the go.

What Could Be Better:

While the tech in the Q7 is excellent, it can be overwhelming at first. There’s a lot going on, and not everyone will find it easy to navigate at first glance. Some drivers may find it distracting.

Safety Features

Both the Lexus RX 350 and Audi Q7 come loaded with safety features, but each has its own strengths.

Lexus RX 350 Safety

Lexus equips the RX 350 with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0. This includes automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Lexus is known for its commitment to safety, and the RX 350 is no exception.

Possible Drawback:

The lane-keeping assist system can feel a bit over-sensitive at times, leading to a more jerky driving experience on highways.

Audi Q7 Safety

The Audi Q7 doesn’t lag behind when it comes to safety either. It comes standard with features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Audi’s 360-degree camera system is particularly helpful for parking such a large vehicle.

Drawback:

Some of the Q7’s more advanced safety features, like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, are part of optional packages rather than standard equipment.

Pricing and Value

Lexus RX 350 Pricing

The Lexus RX 350 starts at around $48,000, which is a pretty competitive price for a luxury SUV. It offers a lot of standard features, but the price can quickly escalate with options. Higher trims and the F Sport model can push the price closer to $60,000.

Value Assessment:

Lexus’s reputation for reliability and lower ownership costs (thanks to fewer repairs) make it a strong contender in the long-term value category.

Audi Q7 Pricing

The Audi Q7 has a starting price of around $60,000, but the price quickly rises as you add more features and upgrade to the V6 engine. The fully-loaded Prestige trim can easily cross the $80,000 mark.

Is it Worth it?

While the Audi Q7 is more expensive than the RX 350, it also offers more features and a higher level of tech and performance. However, higher maintenance costs and depreciation could make it less appealing in the long run compared to the Lexus.

Final Thoughts: Which SUV is Right for You?

Choosing between the Lexus RX 350 and the Audi Q7 comes down to what you value most in an SUV.

• If you want comfort reliability and lower long-term costs with a serene driving experience, the Lexus RX 350 is your best bet.
• If you’re after a more sporty dynamic ride with advanced tech features and more seating, the Audi Q7 will likely suit you better.

As Alex Collantes an avid SUV enthusiast and current owner of an RX 350 says “The RX 350 is the ultimate luxury experience for those who prioritize comfort over everything. You get all the premium features without sacrificing reliability. The Audi Q7’s tech is impressive but not something I personally need every day.”

Pros and Cons Overview:

• Lexus RX 350:

  • Pros: Great reliability smooth ride premium interior affordable price point.
  • Cons: Unintuitive infotainment system average performance limited cargo space.

• Audi Q7:

  • Pros: Impressive tech features excellent handling more cargo and seating capacity.
  • Cons: Higher starting price lower fuel economy tech may be overwhelming at first.

Ultimately the decision comes down to your lifestyle preferences and budget. Both of these luxury SUVs bring their A-game but only one can fit perfectly into your daily life.