Lexus RX vs Denza B5
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 RX starts from $84,900 before on-road costs, while the Denza B5 opens at $74,990. That makes the Denza B5 the more affordable entry point by $9,910.
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 $93,390 and $82,489 respectively.
The Denza B5 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Lexus RX, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Denza B5 by roughly $8,155 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Lexus RX and Denza B5 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 90% for the Lexus RX and 86% for the Denza B5.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Lexus RX packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 0 in the Denza B5.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus RX stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, head-up display, wireless charging, panoramic roof, heated front seats, ventilated seats, power tailgate, Lexus Premium Sound audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Denza B5. The Denza B5 counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Lexus RX uses a Hybrid producing 179kW and 221Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.7 seconds.
The Denza B5 responds with a Petrol Turbo PHEV making 400kW and 760Nm, paired to a 1-speed auto driving all four wheels.
The Denza B5 has the clear power advantage at 400kW vs 179kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Lexus RX measures 4,890mm long on a 2,850mm wheelbase, 2mm longer than the Denza B5 at 4,888mm (2,800mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Lexus RX generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Denza B5 leads with a 3,000kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 1,500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.8m diameter
Average
Based on 11.8m 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, fuel costs roughly $1,967/year for the Lexus RX and $336/year for the Denza B5. That is a $1,631 annual difference in favour of the Denza B5.
Estimated annual total: $1,967 (Lexus RX) vs $336 (Denza B5). The Denza B5 saves you roughly $1,631 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus RX) vs 6 years / 150,000km (Denza B5). The Denza B5 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: 4yr (Lexus RX)—.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus RX if: You or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Denza B5 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Denza's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Denza B5 takes 4 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Denza B5 will save you roughly $1,631 a year in fuel. The Denza B5 adds peace of mind with a longer 6-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 RX and Denza B5?
The Denza B5 is the cheapest at $74,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Lexus RX by $9,910.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Lexus RX uses the least fuel at 6.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Lexus RX and Denza B5 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which can tow the most?
The Denza B5 has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Denza B5 has the longest warranty at 6 years / 150k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Denza B5 makes the most power at 400kW.
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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