Lexus NX vs Audi Q4 e-tron
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 Lexus NX starts from $59,900 before on-road costs, while the Audi Q4 e-tron opens at $84,900. That makes the Lexus NX the more affordable entry point by $25,000.
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 $65,890 and $93,390 respectively.
The Audi Q4 e-tron qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Lexus NX, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the Lexus NX and Audi Q4 e-tron hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 91% for the Lexus NX and 93% for the Audi Q4 e-tron.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Audi Q4 e-tron packs more ADAS features with 9 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 6 in the Lexus NX.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 8 in the Lexus NX and 7 in the Audi Q4 e-tron. The Audi Q4 e-tron adds a 360-degree camera that the Lexus NX misses.
Feature Showdown
The Lexus NX features a 14-inch touchscreen, while the Audi Q4 e-tron gets a 11.6-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus NX stands out with wireless charging that you will not find on the Audi Q4 e-tron. The Audi Q4 e-tron counters with Bang & Olufsen audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Lexus NX uses a Petrol producing 152kW and 243Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9 seconds.
The Audi Q4 e-tron responds with a Electric making 210kW and 545Nm, paired to a single-speed (two-stage planetary) driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.7 seconds.
The Audi Q4 e-tron has the clear power advantage at 210kW vs 152kW. In the real-world sprint, the Audi Q4 e-tron is 2.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Lexus NX measures 4,660mm long on a 2,690mm wheelbase, 72mm longer than the Audi Q4 e-tron at 4,588mm (2,764mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Audi Q4 e-tron generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 520L in the Lexus NX and 520L in the Audi Q4 e-tron.
For towing, the Lexus NX leads with a 1,650kg braked capacity vs 1,000kg. That 650kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m to 11.4m
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
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: 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus NX) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Audi Q4 e-tron). The Audi Q4 e-tron has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: 4yr (Lexus NX)—.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus NX if: You want the lower entry price, need stronger towing, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Audi Q4 e-tron if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Audi Q4 e-tron takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. The Audi Q4 e-tron adds peace of mind with a longer 5-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Lexus NX and Audi Q4 e-tron?
The Lexus NX is the cheapest at $59,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Audi Q4 e-tron by $25,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Lexus NX uses the least fuel at 6.1L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Lexus NX and Audi Q4 e-tron all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which can tow the most?
The Lexus NX has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,650kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Audi Q4 e-tron has the longest warranty at 5 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Audi Q4 e-tron makes the most power at 210kW. The Audi Q4 e-tron is quickest to 100km/h in 6.7s.
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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