Volkswagen T-Cross vs Lexus RX
What's the difference?

Volkswagen T-Cross

$19,888 - $39,990

2024 price

View pricing & specs

Lexus RX

$101,200 - $111,100

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Chery Tiggo 8 PRO MAX

Land Rover Discovery Sport

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-Class

Mini Countryman

Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi Pajero

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Summary

2024 Volkswagen T-Cross

2026 Lexus RX

By Laura Berry

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 3, 1.0L

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Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

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Fuel Efficiency

5.6L/100km (combined)

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Seating

Likes

Lots of features for not much money
Easy and fun to drive
Spacious and practical for the class

Smooth & refined
Premium features
Family-friendly rear seat

Dislikes

A hybrid version is needed
Some rivals start at a lower price
Some turbo lag in stop-start traffic

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

2024 Volkswagen T-Cross Summary

The Volkswagen T-Cross is the smallest SUV in the brand’s entire range, but it’s incredibly practical, great to drive and has an excellent level of safety.

It’s just been updated with some new features and it’s probably more affordable than you think.

So if you are thinking of a Mazda CX-3 or a Toyota Yaris Cross, then put the T-Cross on your list to check out, too.

View full pricing & specs

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

Deep dive comparison

2024 Volkswagen T-Cross 2026 Lexus RX

Verdict

There are so many new little SUVs out there and it might be easy to think they’re all the same - a tiny cheap SUV is just a tiny cheap SUV. But I’m convinced the Volkswagen T-Cross isn’t like the others.

Yes, it’s tiny and relatively cheap, but it can do more than most of the others from the storage and space it offers to the value-for-money and its level of refinement. Then there’s the way it drives - which can’t in my books be matched by any of its rivals.

The sweet spot in the range is the entry grade Life. At $35K drive-away the value is best and with no difference in engines between the grades there are no huge reasons to step up higher in the range unless you have the money.

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

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.

Volkswagen T-Cross vs Lexus RX What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Volkswagen T-Cross vs Lexus RX
What's the difference?