The New Lexus RX vs Audi Q5 vs Acura MDX: A Question of Power and Refinement
June 17 2019, Lexus Laval
The Lexus RX has long been one of the best-selling luxury sport utility vehicles in both Canada and in the United States. It was recently redesigned from the wheels up, and the current generation is even more of a stand out in its competitive segment.
Indeed, Lexus understands very well the needs of high-end SUV buyers, and it shows when you take a closer look at the new Lexus RX. The Japanese automaker also understands that there is some tough competition to tackle, two examples of which are the Audi Q5 and the Acura MDX. All three of these models offer significant advantages and strong selling points, and it really comes down to your needs and what you are looking for when you are deciding between each option.
A more powerful engine for the new Lexus RX compared to the Audi Q5 and the Acura MDX
Under the hood, the Lexus RX 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 295 horsepower and 268 pound-feet of torque. There is also a hybrid option available in the Lexus RX 450 which offers 308 horsepower. That said, for this comparison, we will stick with the entry-level engine.
Although the Acura MDX comes close with its 290 horsepower, the new Lexus RX vastly outshines the Audi Q5 in the power department. Indeed, the German compact luxury SUV features a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 252 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. There is therefore more than 40 extra horses under the hood of the Lexus RX 350, and drivers will immediately see the difference out on the road.
Better yet, the Lexus RX’s posted fuel economy of 12.2 liters per 100 kilometers in the city and 8.9 liters per 100 kilometers on the highway matches what is offered in both the Acura MDX and the Audi Q5. You therefore get more power without having to sacrifice fuel economy.
A more upscale interior in the new Lexus RX
There are a lot of ways the RX stands out from both the MDX and the Q5, and we already touched on power. That said, it’s when you step inside the new RX that you can truly feel the difference. Put simply, the Lexus RX 350 features what many believe to be one of the most beautiful interiors and layouts in its segment.
A massive infotainment screen will impress your passengers every time, and you can see just how well everything is built when you inspect the quality of the materials and the craftsmanship inside the new RX. There is also more than 600 liters of cargo space in the back which outshines both the Q5 and the MDX when the latter has all of its seats in place.
To learn more about how the Lexus RX 350 stands out against the Audi Q5 and the Acura MDX, contact us today at Lexus Laval!
