2026 Lexus RX vs. the Competition

The Lexus RX was one of the most important models responsible for popularizing the idea of a luxury SUV. It remains the best-selling Lexus model, and what rivals it does have don’t enjoy anything near the popularity of the RX. But there are rivals, and to really understand the popularity of the RX, we’ll have to take a closer look at how those rivals stack up to this longtime favorite.

Lexus RX VS Acura RDX

2026 Lexus RX 350 AWD	VS	2025 Acura RDX Base AWD
$52,775	MSRP*	$46,050
275 HP / 317 LB-FT TQ ✓	Horsepower / Torque	272 / 280 LB-FT TQ
24 mpg ✓	Combined Fuel Economy	23 mpg
2 conventional hybrid / 1 plug-in hybrid ✓	Electrified Drivetrain Options	None
3,500 pounds ✓	Towing Capacity	1,500 pounds
12 ✓	Speakers	9
Standard ✓	Rain Sensing Wipers	Requires higher trim
Standard ✓	Integrated Navigation	Requires higher trim
Standard ✓	Semi-Autonomous Cruise Control	Not available
Standard ✓	Front Fog Lights	Not available

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We’re starting this comparison with the Acura RDX, which starts off with a price advantage over the RX, particularly due to its standard all-wheel drive. Unfortunately, it also comes with a smaller engine, which falls short of the power output of the RX, particularly in terms of torque. And yet, it is the Lexus that offers better fuel economy. The difference isn’t enormous or anything, but the fact that the RX is able to offer both better fuel economy and more power at the same time is the sign of a truly advanced drivetrain. And if you are interested in an enormous difference in fuel economy, the RX offers two different hybrid drivetrains and a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. There is even a high-performance hybrid option that offers 366 horsepower and still gets better fuel economy than the RDX. Thanks to this extra power, the Lexus RX is rated to tow more than double what you can pull with the RDX.

With the lower price on the Acura RDX, you’re probably expecting a bit less standard equipment, but the difference might still surprise you. The RX comes with a better stereo, and while there is the option of a premium stereo in the RDX, the Lexus has that option too, and the premium option in the Lexus RX has more speakers and higher wattage. Features like rain-sensing wipers and integrated navigation are standard on the RX, but require you to move up to a higher trim on the RDX. Other features, like a hands-on semi-autonomous cruise control system or front LED foglights, aren’t just not standard on the RDX, but they aren’t available at all.

Lexus RX VS INFINITI QX55

2026 Lexus RX 350 AWD	VS	2025 INFINITI QX55 Luxe AWD
$52,775	MSRP*	$51,500
275 HP / 317 LB-FT TQ ✓	Horsepower / Torque	268 HP / 280 LB-FT TQ
8-speed automatic ✓	Transmission	CVT
3,500 pounds ✓	Towing Capacity	Not rated
12 ✓	Speakers	6
10 inches ✓	Infotainment Touchscreen	8 inches
Standard ✓	Integrated Navigation	Requires higher trim
Front and rear ✓	Parking Sensors	Rear only
Standard ✓	Driver Attention Alert	Not Available
Standard ✓	Rear Cross Traffic Alert	Not Available

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Next up is the INFINITI QX55, a relative newcomer to the segment. Pricing is quite similar to the Lexus RX, but some important differences become apparent when looking at the drivetrain. The RX is once again the more powerful option, thanks to the slightly larger engine. Because modern automatic transmissions are incredibly advanced and can deliver a really rewarding experience behind the wheel, these tend to be the type preferred by luxury automakers. But the QX55 is an exception with a CVT, a cheaper-to-produce type favored for economy cars that gives power delivery a numb feel. Another disadvantage of a CVT is that they are poorly suited to towing, which is why the QX55 isn’t rated to tow at all.

The RX comes exceptionally well equipped, and the stereo is once again an outstanding example of this. Not only are there more speakers, but the infotainment touchscreen is also bigger and easier to operate than the somewhat dated 8-inch screen in the QX55. Integrated navigation isn’t really considered a luxury much anymore, but not only is it not standard on the QX55, it isn’t even available as an option on the base trim. Safety features are also a major strength for the RX, which comes standard with both front and rear parking sensors, a driver attention alert, and a rear cross traffic alert.

Lexus RX VS Range Rover Velar

2026 Lexus RX 350 Luxury AWD	VS	2026 Range Rover Velar P250 S
$63,495 ✓	MSRP*	$62,975
275 HP / 317 LB-FT TQ ✓	Horsepower / Torque	247 HP / 269 LB-FT TQ
24 mpg ✓	Combined Fuel Economy	23 mpg
21 inches ✓	Wheels	19 inches
Mark Levinson® 21-speaker, 1,800-watt PurePlay Surround Sound ✓	Premium Stereo	Meridian™ 16-speaker, 750-watt 3D Surround Sound System
Standard ✓	Heated Back Seats	Optional
Standard ✓	Ventilated Front Seats	Optional
Standard ✓	Head-Up Display	Optional
Standard ✓	Fog Lights	Not Available
12 months / 10,000 miles ✓	Included Routine Maintenance	None

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The stylish looks of the RX have always been one of its strong selling points, so for our last comparison, we’re looking at another SUV that is big on style, the Range Rover Velar. The Velar has a starting price that’s considerably higher than the RX, but fortunately for the sake of a clear comparison, the price of the RX 350 Luxury AWD trim is nearly identical. That said, despite being the most expensive vehicle in the comparison, the Velar is also the least powerful, giving the RX an easy advantage. And yet again, the RX gets superior fuel economy alongside this extra power. On the style front, the RX comes with bigger wheels, and 21-inch wheels aren’t even available on this trim of the RX. You need to move up to a higher trim just for the opportunity to pay extra for them.

Both vehicles come with a 12-speaker stereo system, but for the audiophiles who want a premium stereo, the RX offers a much more impressive option. Both vehicles also come with heated front seats, but only the RX throws in heated back seats and front seat ventilation as standard equipment at this trim level. Head-up displays are becoming increasingly popular as a helpful means of keeping your eyes on the road. That’s why it’s standard on this trim of the RX, even if it is an optional extra for the Velar. And whether you count them as stylish or functional, the RX has a set of LED fog lights, but not the Velar. Lastly, on the subject of value for money, your first year or 10,000 miles of routine maintenance are included in the price of your RX, but Land Rover doesn’t offer any.

Winner - Lexus RX

The competition has long tried to match the multifaceted appeal of the Lexus RX, but it’s clear when looking at an in-depth comparison that none of them have quite managed to get it right. The RX offers a better driving experience, more equipment, and is even more stylish than the offerings from other brands. It’s no wonder that it has enjoyed so much success for so many years. Let Lexus of Cleveland help you find the right RX for you.