2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing both its interior and exterior. These updates were more than just minor tweaks, as the styling changes allowed the RX to stand out in a competitive market. Despite its age, the RX maintained a stylish edge over its Toyota counterparts. The exterior boasted standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlamps. The grille was redesigned to resemble other Lexus models, and a new paint option, Moonbeam Beige Metallic, was introduced. The rear of the vehicle featured a new shape with dual exhaust, a rear diffuser, and updated reflectors, along with an available hands-free tailgate.

Inside, the RX continued to impress with its well-appointed cabin. Standard features included heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated exterior mirrors. Various interior colour and material combinations were available, with leather seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel as standard. The F Sport appearance packages added unique features like a distinctive steering wheel, shift knob, aluminum pedals, and 20-inch wheels. The interior design was practical, avoiding overly ornate elements, and the centre stack, though functional, was beginning to show its age.

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied Audi's design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille, emphasizing width. The body had crisp character lines, and the rear showcased bold taillights. The Q5's overall appearance was modern and classy, with exceptional fit and finish. The plug-in hybrid version included S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, along with standard 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels.

Inside, the Q5 was equally classy and modern, with a focus on technology and an uncluttered appearance. Buttons and switches were smartly grouped, and the material selection was of high quality, with real wood and metal accents. The 10.1-inch touchscreen was positioned for easy visibility, and the second row featured standard leather upholstery. The interior design was cohesive and pleasing, with a focus on authenticity and functionality.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. It delivered 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the three-row RX 350 L models had slightly reduced figures of 290 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. The RX 450h L shared the same setup. The hybrid models featured an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) and multiple electric motors for enhanced performance. The RX was not particularly athletic, taking 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph, but it offered a smooth and connected driving experience. Fuel efficiency was a strong suit, with the RX 350 achieving 10.8 L/100 km combined, while the RX 450h used 7.9 L/100 km combined. The RX F Sport models included adaptive variable suspension and 20-inch wheels for improved agility.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with its plug-in hybrid setup. It combined a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a total output of 362 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque. The Q5 PHEV accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds and achieved impressive fuel efficiency figures of 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres combined. The battery pack could be recharged overnight or in 2.4 hours with Level 2 service. The drivetrain featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro all-wheel drive. The Q5 offered various driving modes, including battery-only mode for limited range, hybrid mode, and battery reserve mode. The handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2020 Lexus RX interior was functional but not as minimalist or stylish as its German competitors. The two-row RX model comfortably accommodated four adults, while the three-row RX-L's third row was best suited for small children. The cabin was spacious in its two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and good visibility. However, the cargo area was smaller than rivals, with a high load floor that limited space. The RX 350 L and 450h L also had less cargo space compared to competitors. A hands-free liftgate was available on certain models.

The 2021 Audi Q5 offered a well-packaged interior with smart use of space. The battery pack was positioned under the luggage compartment floor, preserving cargo space. The Q5 provided 710 litres of space behind the second row, expandable to 1,503 litres with the seats folded. The second row offered reasonable legroom, headroom, and shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and optional ventilation. The interior featured practical storage solutions, including cupholders, cubbies, and a centre-console storage bin.

The 2020 Lexus RX featured an infotainment system that had been criticized but improved for 2020. The display was moved closer to the driver, and the system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was available, but navigation was challenging without verbal assistance. The RX offered compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and various apps. The touchpad system was more responsive, and the vehicle included six USB ports. The standard audio system was adequate, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV boasted Audi's latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which was user-friendly and featured a touchpad. The Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster offered customizable views. The Q5 included a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system with 19 speakers and a 16-channel amplifier. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto were included, enhancing connectivity and convenience.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional features included daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign assist, and lane-tracing assist. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models. The vehicle included a three-year subscription to Lexus Enform Safety Connect and a 10-year subscription to Enform Service Connect.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top ratings except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and more. Available driver-assistance features included Audi Pre Sense front, Audi Side Assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-sign recognition.