Lexus RZ vs Audi Q8 e-tron
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
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 RZ starts from $135,000 before on-road costs, while the Audi Q8 e-tron opens at $140,600. That makes the Lexus RZ the more affordable entry point by $5,600.
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 $148,500 and $154,660 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Audi Q8 e-tron by roughly $2,185 in electricity alone.
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
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus RZ stands out with Apple CarPlay, V2L and Mark Levinson audio that you will not find on the Audi Q8 e-tron. The Audi Q8 e-tron counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof, ventilated seats, Bang & Olufsen audio and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Lexus RZ uses a Electric Motor producing 230kW and 435Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to the wheels. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 5 seconds.
The Audi Q8 e-tron responds with a Electric making 250kW and 664Nm, paired to a single speed driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6 seconds.
The Audi Q8 e-tron has the clear power advantage at 250kW vs 230kW. In the real-world sprint, the Lexus RZ is 1.0s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 71.4kWh (Lexus RZ) vs 95kWh (Audi Q8 e-tron), giving WLTP ranges of 440km and 491km. DC fast charging peaks at 150kW (Lexus RZ) vs 170kW (Audi Q8 e-tron).
Space & Comfort
The Lexus RZ measures 4,805mm long on a 2,850mm wheelbase, 110mm shorter than the Audi Q8 e-tron at 4,915mm (2,928mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Audi Q8 e-tron generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 522L in the Lexus RZ and 569L in the Audi Q8 e-tron, giving the Audi Q8 e-tron a 47L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.5m diameter
Large
Based on 12.5m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, electricity costs roughly $840/year for the Lexus RZ and $403/year for the Audi Q8 e-tron. That is a $437 annual difference in favour of the Audi Q8 e-tron.
Estimated annual total: $840 (Lexus RZ) vs $403 (Audi Q8 e-tron). The Audi Q8 e-tron saves you roughly $437 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus RZ) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Audi Q8 e-tron). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus RZ if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Audi Q8 e-tron if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Audi Q8 e-tron takes 6 of 10 key spec categories. The Audi Q8 e-tron will save you roughly $437 a year in electricity. If boot space matters, the Audi Q8 e-tron has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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