Lexus vs. Audi Brand Comparison
Competition among luxury brands remains fierce with new entrants joining the segment each year. Core strengths of any successful luxury brand include advanced safety features, innovative technology, premium craftsmanship, and a strong brand reputation. If you’ve been considering a new Lexus vehicle, our team has assembled this competitive comparison to help provide you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision. We’ll take a look at how Lexus performs against Audi, one of the brand’s many competitors. But looking closely at the results, it’s easy to see why drivers across the country continue to choose Lexus.
Safety
Lexus has been a pioneer in the development of cutting-edge safety innovations to keep drivers and passengers out of harm’s way on the road. As proof, all Lexus models come standard with the Lexus Safety System+ — the most comprehensive safety system ever offered by Lexus1. Included in this collection of advanced technologies are a Pre-Collision System, Intelligent High-Beam Headlights, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 pushes the technology of the system even further with two new features, including Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Intersection Support.
Before you get in to your next luxury vehicle, consider one man’s story of getting out of his:
"At 10:27 a.m. on Wednesday, October 26, my LS 460 was blindsided by an 18-ton truck traveling at 70 mph. It left no skid marks at the scene. The impact tore the entire front left-wheel assembly off my Lexus, sending it more than 250 yards away, and spun the vehicle into the truck, crushing the rear. Fortunately, the entire cabin was left intact and I walked away without a scratch. Shortly after, I called my Lexus dealer and said, ‘Naturally, I want the same car this time around.2"
- Four-Time Lexus Owner, Oklahoma
Powertrain Warranty Coverage
Robust warranty coverage provides additional confidence and peace of mind throughout the course of ownership. It’s true that both Lexus and Audi offer identical 4 year / 50,000 mile new vehicle warranty coverage terms3. The difference comes when you look at powertrain warranty coverage lengths. Choosing Lexus means that you will receive an impressive 6 year / 70,000 mile powertrain warranty4, giving you 2 full years and/or 20,000 miles more protection than the Audi powertrain warranty.
Lexus Hybrid & Electric Technology
Blending impressive fuel efficiency with high-performance capabilities, Lexus hybrid and electric models push the limits of what’s possible from a luxury vehicle. These groundbreaking hybrids and EVs deliver numerous advantages over traditional powertrains including instantaneous response and unparalleled fuel economy, all while surrounding the driver with premium craftsmanship. Lexus has remained an industry leader when it comes to the development of hybrid and electric technology. As a matter of fact, the Lexus hybrid and EV lineup consists of 11 distinctive models including a coupe, sedans, and SUVs. As compared to Audi, which currently fields only eight hybrid and electric vehicles, Lexus remains the obvious choice for drivers seeking a sophisticated luxury hybrid or electric vehicle.
Lexus Hybrid Lineup
- Lexus UXh
- Lexus NXh
- Lexus RXh
- Lexus TXh
- Lexus ESh
- Lexus LSh
- Lexus LCh
- Lexus NX PHEV
- Lexus RX PHEV
- Lexus TX PHEV
- Lexus RZ
Kelley Blue Book - Brand Image Awards
Another key factor that’s especially relevant to luxury buyers is overall brand image. Luxury drivers tend to have a preference for a brand that is known for proven reliability, a remarkable dealership experience, and class-leading resale values. Every year, the team at Kelley Blue Book conducts their annual Brand Image Awards5. More than 12,000 in-market new vehicle shoppers who research vehicles at KBB.com are polled for their opinions and insights on automotive brands.
In 2023, Lexus received the distinction of Most Trusted Luxury Brand in the Kelley Blue Book Brand Image Awards. Lexus remains a leader in the luxury segment with numerous awards, accolades, and loyal repeat buyers.
Superior Resale Value
When it comes to resale value, no other luxury brand can compete with Lexus. Annually, Kelley Blue Book names their selections for vehicles with the top resale value in their respective segments in the Best Resale Value Awards6. In 2023, a total of two Lexus models received recognition for the best performance in their segments and Lexus was named Best Luxury Brand. On the other hand, Audi failed to earn any first place selections in the 2023 Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Awards.
- 2023 Lexus LS - Best Full-Size Luxury Car
- 2023 Lexus LX - Best Full-Size Luxury SUV
DEPENDABILITY - LEXUS TOPS AUDI IN J.D. POWER U.S. VEHICLE DEPENDABILITY STUDY℠ (VDS)
Another critical aspect savvy shoppers consider when preparing for a new car purchase is long-term dependability. While complex engineering and over-the-top tech features might intrigue a potential buyer, vehicles that provide high levels of performance and reliability often earn the coveted spot in their new owner’s garage.
Every year, the J.D. Power U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study℠ (VDS) measures the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100) during the past 12 months by original owners of three-year old vehicles7. For 2024, original owners of 2021 model-year vehicles were asked to report their experience. A lower score reflects higher quality, and the study covers 184 specific problems grouped into nine major vehicle categories.
Lexus performed well against the competition in terms of dependability with a score of 135 PP100. This is a full 55 problems per 100 vehicles lower than the industry average of 190 PP100. Compared to the Audi score of 275 PP100, Lexus is the clear winner in terms of dependability.
1 Drivers are responsible for their own safe driving. Always pay attention to your surroundings and drive safely. System effectiveness is dependent on many factors including road, weather and vehicle conditions. See Owner's Manual for additional limitations and details.
2 All collisions are unique. Lexus cannot guarantee similar performance in other collisions.
3 Lexus provides complimentary maintenance for your first two scheduled visits. To obtain these services, contact your Lexus dealership. Complimentary services applicable for new Lexus vehicle registered owners. Complimentary service intervals may vary, depending on model. Please refer to the Warranty and Services Guide for details. These services apply to Lexus vehicles registered and normally operated in the United States, U.S. territories and Canada.
4 The Basic Warranty coverage is for 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Wheel alignment and balancing are covered for 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever occurs first. The Powertrain Warranty is for 72 months or 70,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
5 Source: 2023 Brand Image Awards: Best Brands - Kelley Blue Book
6 Source: 2023 Best Resale Value Awards - Kelley Blue Book
7 Source: J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study℠ (VDS). Charts and graphs extracted from this press release for use by the media must be accompanied by a statement identifying J.D. Power as the publisher and the study from which it originated as the source. Rankings are based on numerical scores, and not necessarily on statistical significance.