Audi Q7 vs Lexus TX

The 2025 Audi Q7 showcased a refined exterior with a new front fascia, featuring standard Matrix-design LED headlamps and stylish daytime running lights. The front spoiler and rear diffuser were subtly tweaked, and the grille sported vertical inlays within its octagon frame, contributing to a more cohesive look. Customization options allowed buyers to choose different finishes for the front bumper, door trim, and rear diffuser, while the Black Optic package added black accents and Anthracite Gray Audi rings. The laser-etched badging on the B-pillar was a unique touch, and the Q7 was available in nine colours, including the new Sakhir Gold. Inside, updates were minimal, with new wood and carbon trim inlays, but limited interior colour choices. The piano black surfaces were prone to fingerprints, yet the stacked infotainment screens and expansive HVAC vents added to the car's proportions.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of packages depending on the powertrain, with the TX 350 featuring the Luxury package and options for Ultra Luxury, Executive, and F Sport 3 packages. The TX 500h hybrid started with the F Sport Performance 2 package. The large grille retained the spindle shape, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting spanning the vehicle's width. The interior offered three colour options, ambient lighting, and suede trim, though material quality fell short of luxury standards. Redesigned door handles were a novel feature, but the focus on interior detail was lacking. The TX's design was functional, with roof rails available for additional storage.

The 2025 Audi Q7 offered two engine choices: the 45 TFSI with a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine producing 261 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, and the 55 TFSI with a 3.0-litre turbo V6 delivering 335 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission provided smooth power delivery to all four wheels, though the steering and transmission response in Dynamic mode left room for improvement. The Q7's handling was impressive, with minimal body roll and the option for manual mode for more driver control. Fuel economy was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city, 10.0 highway, and 11.7 combined for the 55 TFSI, with the smaller engine offering slightly better efficiency.

The 2026 Lexus TX 350 came with a 275-horsepower 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the TX 500h hybrid boosted output to 366 horsepower. The gas model featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the hybrid used a six-speed automatic. The TX 350 had full-time AWD, while the TX 500h employed Lexus's Direct4 AWD system. Drive modes included Normal, Eco, and Sport, with Sport mode enhancing throttle sensitivity. The 500h offered adaptive suspension and rear steering for improved handling.

The 2025 Audi Q7 featured heated front seats, with additional amenities like a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats in higher trims. The top Technik trim added a Bang & Olufsen stereo system and rear door sunshades. The Q7's three-row seating was cramped in the third row, suitable only for children. Cargo space measured 402 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,011 and 1,970 litres with seats folded. Small storage was limited, with shallow centre console space and awkward door pockets.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered three-zone automatic climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom. A one-touch button facilitated entry to the third row, though folding the second row flat was cumbersome. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. Cargo space was generous, with 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 and 2,747 litres with seats folded. The TX could tow up to 2,268 kilograms when properly equipped.

The 2025 Audi Q7's Multi Media Interface (MMI) infotainment system featured a 10.1-inch centre screen and a smaller screen for HVAC controls. The digital gauge cluster was configurable, though the screen was sluggish and required a firm touch. Google Maps was the native navigation system, and the Audi App Store offered third-party downloads. Online navigation and traffic light information were included for a trial period.

The 2026 Lexus TX's 14-inch touchscreen was responsive, but some features lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled adaptive cruise control and volume, though they were multi-functional and unlabeled. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but connectivity issues occurred. A subscription was required for in-dash navigation and other features. The back-up camera was clear, and the Advanced Park system was available. The TX offered seven USB ports and wireless charging.

The 2025 Audi Q7 included advanced driver-assistance systems like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the lane-centring system was inconsistent, and the Q7 lacked some features found in competitors. The NHTSA rated the Q7 five out of five stars overall, with four stars for front crash and rollover. The IIHS had not yet rated the 2025 model.

The 2026 Lexus TX came with Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning, lane tracing assist, and Proactive Driving Assist. Adaptive cruise control worked well, though setup was confusing. The NHTSA rated the TX five out of five stars for crash safety, while the IIHS gave it an "Acceptable" score for the small overlap front crash test on the driver's side and "Good" for the passenger's side.