Lexus RX vs Honda ZR-V
What's the difference?

Lexus RX

$101,200 - $111,100

2026 price

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Honda ZR-V

$37,900 - $54,900

2026 price

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Land Rover Discovery Sport

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mercedes-Benz E53

Mercedes-Benz EQ-Class

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz G63

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Mini Countryman

Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi Pajero

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Summary

2026 Lexus RX

2026 Honda ZR-V

By Emily Agar

By Jack Quick

Safety Rating

Engine Type

—

Inline 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type

—

Unleaded Petrol/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

—

5.0L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Smooth & refined
Premium features
Family-friendly rear seat

Finally cheaper hybrid trims
Incredible fuel efficiency
Affordable servicing

Dislikes

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

No spare wheel
Roof-mounted rear centre seatbelt
Small touchscreen

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

2026 Honda ZR-V Summary

Honda used to be a big deal in Australia back in the 1990s and early 2000s but I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s moved off your radar in recent years.

The Japanese carmaker has seemingly fallen out of favour in the last few years following its move to an agency retail model which negates haggling on price with dealers.

However, Honda is making a resurgence and it’s putting a heavier focus on hybrid power.

The ZR-V small-to-medium SUV has been updated for 2026 and picks up new, more affordable hybrid trims, among other minor tweaks. Read on to see if this car should be on your shortlist.

View full pricing & specs

Deep dive comparison

2026 Lexus RX 2026 Honda ZR-V

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

The Honda ZR-V has always been an engaging and fun car that’s the right size for many people. The frugal hybrid powertrain has always been the pick too.

It’s great that Honda has finally introduced more affordable hybrid trims with this update which addresses one of my biggest criticisms of this car previously.

If you’re willing to forgo some luxury features, this entry-level hybrid trim is a fantastic car that still offers enough creature comforts to be driven daily.

Hopefully Honda has some renewed sales success with this car as I believe it’s a clear benchmark for the segment.

Lexus RX vs Honda ZR-V What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Lexus RX vs Honda ZR-V
What's the difference?