2023 Audi Q5 vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, continuing the aesthetic updates from its 2020 facelift. Available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, the RX 350 offered seating for five, while the RX 450h hybrid model provided a three-row, 7-passenger option. The RX's exterior was characterized by sharp character lines and angular features, creating an aggressive yet restrained design. The F Sport models stood out with performance-oriented styling, including 20-inch wheels and unique front fascia, enhancing the vehicle's athletic appearance. Inside, the RX maintained a luxury appeal with high-quality materials, though the centre stack felt somewhat dated. The F Sport models added a sporty touch with specific badging and trim, but comfort was compromised by less-than-ideal seating and limited lumbar support.

The 2023 Audi Q5 combined subtle curves with angular accents, resulting in a classy and sporty exterior. Offered in both regular SUV and Sportback body styles, the Q5 featured a sleek silhouette with a spoiler-like element above the taillights. Inside, the Q5's refined and simple layout showed signs of aging since its last redesign in 2018. Standard leather seating and heated front seats provided comfort, while the infotainment system, though not as large as some competitors, was functional. The Q5's build quality was robust, with no squeaks or creaks over rough surfaces, and it offered a solid choice among luxury SUVs. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed adequate space, though the materials felt less luxurious compared to newer rivals.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The RX 450h hybrid model added electric motors for a combined output of 308 hp. All RX models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of sporty driving dynamics. The engine's sound was more akin to a turbocharged four-cylinder, and acceleration was sluggish. The F Sport models included adaptive suspension and additional drive modes, but changes in driving dynamics were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, absorbing road imperfections and providing a serene driving experience. Fuel efficiency varied, with the RX 350 using 12.2 L/100 km in the city and 9.0 on the highway, while the RX 450h hybrid achieved 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2023 Audi Q5 offered three engine options, starting with the 40 TFSI quattro's 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder producing 201 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. The 45 TFSI quattro increased output to 261 hp and 273 lb-ft, while the 55 TFSI e plug-in hybrid delivered 362 hp and 369 lb-ft with an electric motor. All Q5 models featured a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard Quattro all-wheel drive. The Q5 Sportback with the 45 TFSI engine experienced a delay in power delivery, affecting initial acceleration. However, handling was sporty, with precise steering and confidence on curvy roads. The Q5 balanced compliance and cornering, providing a comfortable ride with minimal noise. The plug-in hybrid offered an electric-only range of 37 kilometres and required 2.5 hours for a full charge on a 7.4 kW home charger.

The 2022 Lexus RX's standard two-row model offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume, comfortably accommodating four adults. Headroom measured 1,001 mm in the front and 993 mm in the rear, with legroom of 1,120 mm and 964 mm, respectively. The three-row L models shared the same wheelbase, resulting in limited space for the third row. Cargo capacity varied, with 453 litres behind the second row and up to 1,657 litres with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements, such as a smartphone slot, adjustable-height cup holder, and a flat-bottomed cargo net, though the rear seats did not fold completely flat.

The 2023 Audi Q5's interior design remained largely unchanged since 2018, with a functional layout and good outward visibility. The infotainment touchscreen was positioned for easy access, and traditional controls were provided for climate settings. Front passengers enjoyed ample space, while rear seats accommodated taller individuals comfortably. The Sportback model offered slightly reduced headroom. Storage options were available, though some were oddly sized. The Q5 provided 730 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, with the Sportback offering 700 litres. The door pockets were spacious, and keyless entry was standard.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version available for the 450h L and as an option for other trims. The touchscreens were moved closer to the driver in 2020, but ergonomic issues persisted. The infotainment system was responsive, but the touchpad was hypersensitive and frustrating to use. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, Bluetooth, wireless charging, a WiFi hotspot, and premium audio systems. The Lexus App provided remote engine start and vehicle settings.

The 2023 Audi Q5 came standard with a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering sharp graphics and quick responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, along with Bluetooth and SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trims featured a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The Q5's infotainment system was user-friendly, though Apple CarPlay's app buttons were smaller. Audi Connect Care allowed remote monitoring and control via a smartphone app, with a Wi-Fi hotspot included. Mid-range trims offered a customizable digital instrument panel, known as the virtual cockpit.

The 2022 Lexus RX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and a pre-collision system. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, but only with optional triple-beam LED headlights. It received four stars overall from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash tests.

The 2023 Audi Q5 received five stars from the NHTSA for overall, frontal, and side protection, and four stars in rollover tests. The IIHS awarded the Q5 a Top Safety Pick+ designation. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added lane-keep assist, a surround-view camera system, and traffic jam assist. The top Technik trim featured matrix-design LED headlights, a head-up display, and a semi-automated park assist system.