Lexus RX vs Audi SQ7
What's the difference?

Lexus RX

$101,200 - $111,100

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Audi SQ7

—

2024 price

View pricing & specs

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Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

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Summary

2026 Lexus RX

2024 Audi SQ7

By Emily Agar

By John Law

Safety Rating

Engine Type

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Twin Turbo V8, 4.0L

Fuel Type

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Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

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12.1L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Smooth & refined
Premium features
Family-friendly rear seat

Growling V8 soundtrack
Spacious, classy cabin
Impressive ride and handling

Dislikes

Relatively short EV-only range
No spare tyre, just a repair kit
Raised rear seat cramped for tall people

Lacks clever interior storage
Engine is thirsty
Expensive to service

2026 Lexus RX Summary

Lexus has finally brought a plug-in hybrid to the Australian market with the RX450h+, and we’ve been testing the second-from-the-top Sports Luxury grade to see how it stacks up.

Promising a blend of electric efficiency and the high-end comfort Lexus is known for, this large SUV steps into a competitive segment. But does it deliver on both fronts?

View full pricing & specs

2024 Audi SQ7 Summary

The Audi Q7 has come in for its second facelift as it enters its ninth year of production while the younger Q8 is in for its first refresh.

But these two aren't like the Mitsubishi ASX and Eclipse Cross pair; Audi's MLB underpinnings were cutting edge at their launch 2015 and remain stand-out in the class with advanced suspension and chassis tech, connectivity and refinement.

A host of small visual and performance tweaks aim to make the range-topping SQ7 we're driving even better. But should you make the sensible seven-seat decision or go a little rogue and choose the sloping-roofed SQ8?

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Lexus RX 2024 Audi SQ7

Verdict

The new Lexus RX450h+ Sports Luxury is packed with a wealth of premium features and strikes a solid balance between refinement and practicality. There are enough thoughtful touches that make everyday driving a little easier.

You’ll get the most out of the plug-in hybrid powertrain if you’re able to charge it regularly; ideally every day. That might not always be practical for busy people on the go, but overall, the RX450h+ manages to blend efficiency with Lexus’ signature comfort and quality.

Verdict

There are newer options than the current Audi SQ7 and SQ8, including those which use the same platform, but don't write these luxury large SUVs off just yet.

It's a rare thing that a vehicle costing $200,000 has an air of pragmatism about it, but the SQ7 does. Its sensible leather upholstery, decent practicality, towing capability and near-excess of interior space make it a great family wagon.

As a counterpoint, the sharper looking SQ8 has minimal trade-off in comfort and interior room (at least for five) and is the kind of statement piece you'd expect for the price — especially in one of its loud paint colours.

Whichever way you leap, it's true that while the SQ7 and SQ8 are ageing, they are doing so gracefully and remain a superb option in this segment.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with accommodation and meals provided.

Lexus RX vs Audi SQ7 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Lexus RX vs Audi SQ7
What's the difference?