2020 Audi Q7 vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2020 Audi Q7 offered a range of engine options, including the 45 TFSI with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and the 55 TFSI with a mild-hybrid turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. The performance-tuned SQ7 featured a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8. The Q7 55 TFSI, priced from $60,800, was available in Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige trims. The test model, with Prestige trim and additional packages, totaled $74,290. Design updates enhanced the Q7’s aesthetics, aligning it with the flagship Q8. Inside, the Q7 adopted the high-tech dashboard from the Q8, featuring three digital displays and Audi’s Virtual Cockpit. The cabin, adorned in Okapi Brown leather and Gray/Brown Fine Grain Ash wood, exuded luxury and sophistication.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the UX and RX, maintained its sharp, streamlined design. Despite its sporty F Sport Black Line appearance, the NX Hybrid shared its platform with the older Toyota RAV4. The test car featured a larger mesh grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and Grecian Water paint. Inside, the NX’s design, once radical, had become familiar. The F Sport package added a heated steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and NuLuxe upholstery. However, the interior materials leaned more towards mainstream quality, lacking the luxury feel expected from Lexus.

The 2020 Audi Q7 55 TFSI introduced a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It featured a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to enhance fuel efficiency. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive, the Q7 offered multiple driving modes. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. The EPA rated it at 18 mpg combined, but it averaged 21 mpg on a road trip. The Prestige trim included an adaptive air suspension, enhancing ride comfort and handling. The Q7 excelled in agility and quietness, making it enjoyable on winding roads and highways.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering 194 horsepower. It featured standard all-wheel drive but was not performance-oriented, taking 9.1 seconds to reach 60 mph. The F Sport package improved handling with sport-tuned suspension, but the steering lacked feedback. Drive modes like Eco and Sport offered minimal impact on performance. The NX Hybrid prioritized fuel efficiency over excitement, with a clunky transition between electric and gasoline power.

The 2020 Audi Q7, with three rows, was best suited for five passengers. The third row was cramped, suitable only for children, and reduced cargo space to 14.2 cubic feet. Folding it expanded capacity to 35.7 cubic feet, and with both rows down, it offered 69.6 cubic feet. The Prestige trim provided comfortable seating and climate control for long trips. However, interior storage was limited, with minimal space for personal items.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited front and rear headroom, with the least rear legroom in its class. The front seats, though comfortable, offered 10-way power adjustment. The sloping roofline and thick pillars hindered rear visibility. Cargo space was 16.8 cubic feet with seats up and 53.7 cubic feet folded, less than the gasoline model. A power-folding second row and liftgate were available but not standard.

The 2020 Audi Q7 featured the new MMI Touch Response system with dual touchscreens, natural voice recognition, and smartphone integration. While intuitive, the system struggled with dry fingertips. The Prestige trim included a head-up display and a Bose sound system, though Audi upgraded to Bang & Olufsen for 2021. The 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was useful for remote work and learning.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid’s infotainment system was a weak point, using a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. It included an 8-inch display, with an optional 10.3-inch screen, and supported smartphone integration. The graphics were outdated, and the base audio system lacked quality. Analog controls were available for climate and audio functions.

The 2020 Audi Q7 had impressive HD Matrix LED headlights, though rated "poor" by IIHS for glare. It included advanced driving-assistance systems, with features like Emergency Assist and Adaptive Cruise Assist. However, the traffic-sign recognition system was problematic. The Q7 received top IIHS ratings, except for headlights.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. It included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 with numerous driver aids. The NX offered a comprehensive safety package, though it lacked a 360-degree camera system.