2021 Audi Q5 TSFI e vs Lexus NX 300h: 2 candidates, 1 winner

The hybrid and luxury plug-in hybrid SUV category is becoming fiercer every year. But with the addition of so many models, all of them unique and interesting in their own way, how can you be sure you are making the best decision?

Spinelli, your Lexus dealer in Lachine near the West Island, Laval and downtown Montreal, helps you narrow it down with this matchup between 2 high-performance SUVs: it’s the Audi Q5 TSFI e vs the Lexus NX 300h. So, which one is the better SUV?

Overview

With a base price of only $49,710, the 2021 Lexus NX 300h is much more affordable than the Audi Q5 TSFI e, which weighs in at $70,400. You can customize your new NX with a number of packages, including the F Sport and Executive packages, which will raise the bill by $11,250 and $14,000 respectively. That being said, even the best-equipped model of the Lexus SUV is more affordable than even the entry-level Q5 TSFI e.

As for warranties, you’ll be pleased to learn that Lexus offers a 6-year/110,000 km powertrain warranty, while Audi’s warranty is of only 4 years or 80,000 km.

Exterior features

The Q5 features an elegant yet sober silhouette, while the 2021 NX 300h boasts a sculpted and daring design that definitely does not go unnoticed! The aggressive front end, with its signature Lexus trapezoidal grille and unique headlight design, resting on 17- or 18-inch wheels depending on the options selected, are hard to miss and harder to resist.

Powertrain

Under the hood, the Lexus NX 300h hides a 2.5 L DOHC 16-valve aluminum 4-cylinder engine paired to the Lexus Hybrid Drive system. It is coupled to an ECVT transmission with all-wheel drive, the whole generating a net output of 194 horsepower with a very attractive fuel economy rating of 7.2/7.9/7.5 L/100 km city/highway/combined. That's better than the Q5 TSFI e, which clocks in at 9.3/8.2/8.8 L/100 km.

What’s more, unlike the Audi SUV, the NX 300h is self-charging. This means you don't have to plug it in to charge the battery. Comparing their autonomous ranges also highlights the Lexus advantage: the NH offers a total range of 746 kilometers, compared to only 613 kilometers for the Q5 TSFI e. Additionally, regular fuel is recommended for the NX while the Q5 requires premium, which further increases the total cost of this model.

Interior Features

With room for up to 5 passengers, the 2021 Lexus NX 300h also offers plenty of storage space. Depending on whether or not the rear seat is folded or not, this SUV can hold between 475 and 1,520 L of cargo. The addition of plenty of numerous storage spaces spread out throughout the cabin are also very practical.

Depending on the options you choose, the Lexus also features a number of comfort features such as heated front seats, 8-way power-adjustable driver and passenger seats, dual-zone climate control and much more.

Technology plays a big role onboard the Lexus SUV with features such as Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, USB audio input jacks, an 8-inch touchscreen, Enform Remote and Enform Safety Connect (not available at Audi), navigation, a Mark Levinson audio system and more, depending on the package you opt for.

Finally, numerous safety features  make your NX 300hvery safe on the road, such as pre-collision alert with pedestrian and cyclist detection - more comprehensive Audi’s system – All-Speed Dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with roadside detection, rear cross-traffic alert, a head-up display and Intelligent Clearance Sonar.

To learn more about our Lexus NX 300h vs Audi Q5 TSFI e comparison or to discover all of the advantages that the Lexus SUV enjoys over its rival, come see us at Spinelli Lexus in Lachine today!