2025 Audi Q7 vs 2026 Lexus TX

The 2025 Audi Q7 showcased a refined exterior with a new front fascia, featuring standard Matrix-design LED headlamps and distinctive daytime running lights. The front spoiler and rear diffuser were subtly tweaked, and the grille sported vertical inlays within its octagon frame, contributing to a more cohesive look. Customization options allowed buyers to personalize the front bumper, door trim, and rear diffuser in various finishes, while the Black Optic package added black accents and Anthracite Gray Audi rings. A unique laser-etched badging on the B-pillar added a touch of exclusivity. The Q7 was available in eight colors, including the new Sakhir Gold, with three wheel options in 20- or 21-inch diameters. Inside, updates were minimal, with new wood and carbon trim inlays but limited interior color choices. The interior featured stacked infotainment screens and extensive HVAC vents, though the piano black finish was prone to fingerprints.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a range of trim levels, with the TX 350 available in Base, Premium, Luxury, and F Sport Handling specs, while the 500h hybrid came in F Sport Performance Premium and F Sport Performance Luxury trims. The 550h+ plug-in hybrid was exclusive to the top Luxury trim. The 550h+ featured a standard panoramic glass roof and the new Matador Red Mica paint. Most models had 20-inch wheels, but the 550h+ boasted 22-inch wheels. The grille retained a spindle shape, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting. The interior offered two color options, with the PHEV adding a dark brown called Peppercorn. Ambient lighting and suede trim enhanced the cabin, though material quality fell short of luxury standards. Redesigned door handles were a novelty, but more attention to cabin detail was desired.

The 2025 Audi Q7 offered two engine choices for the Premium and Premium Plus trims. The 45 TFSI featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine producing 261 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The 55 TFSI boasted a 3.0-liter turbo V6 with 335 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The top Prestige trim, equipped with the larger engine, delivered smooth power delivery through an eight-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. While Comfort mode prioritized efficiency, Dynamic mode aimed for sportiness but fell short in steering feedback and transmission responsiveness. The Q7 excelled in handling, thanks to available all-wheel steering, with minimal body roll in tight turns. Drive modes included Individual, All Road, and Off Road, catering to various terrains. The 55 TFSI engine achieved an EPA rating of 18 mpg city, 23 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined, slightly trailing competitors.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid generated 404 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system. The seven-kilowatt charger provided a full battery in under three hours. The TX offered versatile drive options, including charge mode, electric-only, hybrid, and gas-only modes. Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom drive modes allowed for ride customization. Sport mode increased throttle sensitivity, though the TX 550h+ wasn't designed for aggressive handling. The 550h+ delivered a quiet and smooth ride, with seamless transitions between gas and electric power. The suspension absorbed bumps effectively, and the brakes were firm and linear. The AWD system distributed power between front and rear wheels, with Trail Mode enhancing traction on slippery surfaces.

The 2025 Audi Q7 featured heated eight-way power-adjustable front seats with four-way lumbar support. The Prestige trim added a Bang & Olufsen stereo system, 360-degree camera, and ventilated and massaging front seats. The Executive package included four-zone climate control, heated rear seats, and sun shades. The third row was cramped, suitable only for children, with limited legroom. Cargo space measured 14.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 35.7 and 69.6 cubic feet with rows folded. Small storage was limited, with a shallow center console and challenging door pockets.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ offered standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, accommodating adults comfortably, with recline function and individual cupholders and USB-C ports. A one-touch button facilitated third-row access, though folding the second row flat was cumbersome. The front seats lacked thigh support, but the heating function was excellent. Cupholders were versatile, and climate controls were a mix of screen and physical dials. The center console was narrow but deep, with a dual-opening lid. Cargo space was generous, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 57.4 and 97 cubic feet with rows folded. All TX models could tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2025 Audi Q7 featured the Multi Media Interface (MMI) infotainment system on a 10.1-inch center screen, with a smaller screen for HVAC controls. A digital gauge cluster provided customization options. The menu structure was user-friendly, though the screen required a firm push. Google Maps was the native navigation system, displayed over the gauge cluster. The Audi App Store offered third-party downloads, and online navigation and traffic light information were included for three years. The myAudi app allowed for wallpaper customization, with themed options available for purchase.

The 2026 Lexus TX boasted a 14-inch color touchscreen with quick response times, though some features lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled volume and adaptive cruise control, but their multi-functionality was confusing. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues arose. In-dash navigation required a subscription, as did other features like a voice assistant and digital key. The back-up camera offered a bird’s-eye view, and the Advanced Park system handled parking duties. The rear-camera mirror provided an unobstructed view. Seven USB ports and wireless charging ensured devices stayed powered, with a 120-volt outlet in the second row.

The 2025 Audi Q7 included advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Q7 could park itself, though the tech was less refined than competitors. Lane-centering was inconsistent, and the system lacked automatic lane-changing capabilities. ADAS features were customizable, with a physical button for settings. The NHTSA awarded the Q7 five stars overall, with four stars for front crash and rollover. The IIHS rated the 2024 model "Good" in crashworthiness, with "Average" marks for pedestrian front crash-prevention.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning, Lane Tracing Assist, and Proactive Driving Assist. Adaptive cruise control worked well, though setup was confusing. The NHTSA hadn't rated the 550h+, but the TX 350 and 500h earned five stars. The IIHS gave the TX an "Acceptable" score for small overlap front crash tests and "Good" for passenger-side tests. Driver and passenger injury measures received "Good" ratings.