Audi SQ5 Sportback vs Lexus RZ
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Audi SQ5 Sportback starts from $109,900 before on-road costs, while the Lexus RZ opens at $91,000. That makes the Lexus RZ the more affordable entry point by $18,900.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $120,890 and $100,100 respectively.
The Lexus RZ qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Audi SQ5 Sportback, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Audi SQ5 Sportback features a 14.5-inch touchscreen paired with a 11.9-inch digital dash, while the Lexus RZ gets a 14-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Audi SQ5 Sportback stands out with Bang & Olufsen audio that you will not find on the Lexus RZ. The Lexus RZ counters with head-up display, V2L and Mark Levinson audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Audi SQ5 Sportback gets leather upholstery while the Lexus RZ offers synthetic leather. Climate control is 3-zone in the Audi SQ5 Sportback and 2-zone in the Lexus RZ.
Drivetrain
The Audi SQ5 Sportback uses a Petrol MHEV producing 270kW and 550Nm of torque, sent through a 7-speed s tronic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.5 seconds.
The Lexus RZ responds with a Electric Motor making 230kW and 435Nm, paired to a automatic. It gets to 100km/h in 5 seconds.
The Audi SQ5 Sportback has the clear power advantage at 270kW vs 230kW. In the real-world sprint, the Audi SQ5 Sportback is 0.5s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Audi SQ5 Sportback measures 4,717mm long on a 2,820mm wheelbase, 88mm shorter than the Lexus RZ at 4,805mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Lexus RZ generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 470L in the Audi SQ5 Sportback and 522L in the Lexus RZ, giving the Lexus RZ a 52L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m diameter
Average
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years (Audi SQ5 Sportback) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus RZ). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Audi SQ5 Sportback if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus RZ if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Lexus RZ takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Lexus RZ has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Audi SQ5 Sportback and Lexus RZ?
The Lexus RZ is the cheapest at $91,000 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Audi SQ5 Sportback by $18,900.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Audi SQ5 Sportback uses the least fuel at 7.6L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Lexus RZ all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Lexus RZ has the largest boot at 522L.
Which can tow the most?
The Audi SQ5 Sportback has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,000kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Audi SQ5 Sportback makes the most power at 270kW. The Audi SQ5 Sportback is quickest to 100km/h in 4.5s.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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