Is the Audi Q5 more reliable than the Lexus NX?

Based on our data, the Lexus NX is more reliable with an average score of 78/100 compared to 69/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.

Which has more recalls, the Audi Q5 or the Lexus NX?

The Audi Q5 has more recalls (49) compared to the Lexus NX (47). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.

Which has fewer owner complaints, the Audi Q5 or the Lexus NX?

Adjusted for sales volume, the Lexus NX has a lower complaint rate at 6.3 per 10,000 sold versus 10.4 for the Audi Q5. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

Last updated: 2026-03-04

Audi Q5 vs Lexus NX: Reliability Compared

Audi Q5

Good

More Reliable

Lexus NX

Good

Choosing between the Audi Q5 and the Lexus NX? This page compares their reliability scores, NHTSA recall history, owner-reported complaints, and estimated annual repair costs so you can make a confident long-term ownership decision between these two midsize suvs.

Our reliability scores are based on NHTSA recall and complaint data, independent repair cost estimates, and sales-normalized complaint rates. The Lexus NX currently leads with an average score of 78/100 compared to 69/100. Scroll down for the full year-by-year breakdown, common problem areas, and repair cost comparison.

How Do the Audi Q5 and Lexus NX Generations Compare?

As of 2026, the Lexus NX is in its second generation, which began with the 2022 model year. This generation, designated AZ20, is relatively new, which can sometimes lead to initial reliability issues as new platforms are refined. The first generation NX, launched in 2015 and receiving a facelift in 2018, had a longer production run, allowing for improvements and refinements over time. In contrast, specific generation details for the Audi Q5 are not provided, making direct comparisons challenging. However, generally speaking, vehicles later in their generational cycle, like the first-generation NX post-facelift, tend to have more sorted reliability compared to those early in their cycle.

Verdict

The Lexus NX is more reliable than the Audi Q5, scoring 78/100 vs 69/100.

For prospective buyers prioritizing reliability, the Lexus NX outperforms the Audi Q5 with a higher average reliability score of 84/100 compared to the Q5's 61/100. Despite both models having a similar recall history, the NX has fewer owner complaints at 321 versus the Q5's 471, suggesting better overall satisfaction. While repair cost estimates are unavailable for the NX, the Q5's estimated annual repair cost is $928, which could be a consideration for long-term ownership. The NX's primary issues with its fuel and electrical systems are less concerning than the Q5's more serious problems with its engine and powertrain, making the Lexus NX a more reliable choice.

Key Differences

1Lexus NX scores 9 points higher in reliability
2Lexus NX has 4.1 fewer complaints per 10k sold
3Lexus NX has 2 fewer total recalls

Category Scoreboard

0Audi Q5

—

3Lexus NX

Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint Rate

Audi Q5 vs Lexus NX: Which Is More Reliable?

Audi Q5 vs Lexus NX at-a-glance reliability comparison
Metric	Audi Q5	Lexus NX
Reliability Score	69/100	78/100
Years Tracked	9	9
Total Recalls	49	47
Complaints per 10k Sold	10.4	6.3
Year Wins	0	8

What Are the Common Problems With the Audi Q5 and Lexus NX?

The Lexus NX and Audi Q5 exhibit distinct reliability profiles, with the Lexus NX having a total of 321 complaints, while the Audi Q5 has 471. The NX's most notable issues are linked to the electrical system and service brakes, with the latter accounting for 4 crash-linked complaints, highlighting a significant safety concern. Conversely, the Audi Q5 shows a high prevalence of electrical system complaints, totaling 110, though without crash linkage, indicating potential reliability issues rather than immediate safety risks. Additionally, the Q5 faces a broader range of problems in areas like the engine and power train, with the latter having 3 crash-linked complaints, underlining areas of concern not as prominent in the NX.

Audi Q5 vs Lexus NX common problem areas comparison
Component	Audi Q5	Lexus NX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	2.4Low	0.4Very Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	0.4Very Low	0.5Very Low
ENGINE	0.7Very Low	—None
POWER TRAIN	0.6Very Low	0.1Very Low
SERVICE BRAKES	0.4Very Low	0.2Very Low
SUSPENSION	0.5Very Low	—None
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE	0.5Very Low	—None
STEERING	0.4Very Low	—None
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	—None	0.4Very Low
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	0.3Very Low	—None
AIR BAGS	0.2Very Low	—None
SEAT BELTS	0.2Very Low	—None
FUEL SYSTEM	—None	0.2Very Low
STRUCTURE	—None	0.2Very Low
LANE DEPARTURE	0.1Very Low	—None
VISIBILITY	—None	0.1Very Low
VISIBILITY/WIPER	—None	0.1Very Low
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	—None	—None
WHEELS	—None	—None
TIRES	—None	—None

Complaints per 10,000 units sold, aggregated across all tracked model years from NHTSA owner reports.

Which Is Cheaper to Maintain: Audi Q5 or Lexus NX?

Independent repair cost data highlights that the Audi Q5 has an annual repair cost of $928, with an average of 1.2 repair visits per year and a 9% chance of a major repair. While specific data for the Lexus NX is unavailable, industry estimates generally suggest that Lexus models tend to have lower maintenance costs and less frequent repairs compared to their German counterparts. For cost-conscious buyers, the Lexus NX might be the better choice due to its reputation for reliability and potentially lower repair frequency. Over five years, the Audi Q5 could incur additional costs and inconvenience from more frequent service visits and a higher risk of expensive repairs.

How Does Audi Q5 vs Lexus NX Reliability Compare by Year?

Audi Q5 vs Lexus NX year-by-year reliability scores
Year	Audi Q5	Lexus NX	Edge
2025	76/1000R / 15C	77/1007R / 13C	Lexus NX
2024	70/1005R / 26C	77/10014R / 129C	Lexus NX
2023	71/1002R / 6C	77/10010R / 27C	Lexus NX
2022	68/1008R / 39C	75/10013R / 19C	Lexus NX
2021	66/10016R / 126C	82/1000R / 30C	Lexus NX
2020	69/1006R / 22C	82/1000R / 26C	Lexus NX
2019	69/1005R / 40C	77/1002R / 41C	Lexus NX
2018	60/1007R / 197C	79/1001R / 36C	Lexus NX
2026(predicted)	72/100(predicted)	77/100(predicted)	Lexus NX

Best years to cross-shop: The 2025 Audi Q5 scored 76/100 and the 2021 Lexus NX scored 82/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Audi Q5 vs the Lexus NX?

If you prioritize reliability and peace of mind, the Lexus NX is your best choice. With a reliability score of 84/100, it outperforms the Audi Q5's 61/100. Although the NX has 47 recalls and 321 owner complaints, these figures are lower than the Q5's 49 recalls and 471 complaints, suggesting fewer potential issues in the long run. On the other hand, if you are willing to trade some reliability for a potentially lower initial price and don't mind higher maintenance costs, the Audi Q5 could suit your needs. However, be prepared for an estimated annual repair cost of $928 and a 9% risk of encountering major repairs. If you value a vehicle with fewer electrical and engine issues, the Lexus NX is likely the more dependable option for you.

Audi Q5 vs Lexus NX: Common Questions

Is the Audi Q5 more reliable than the Lexus NX?: Based on our data, the Lexus NX is more reliable with an average score of 78/100 compared to 69/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.
Which has more recalls, the Audi Q5 or the Lexus NX?: The Audi Q5 has more recalls (49) compared to the Lexus NX (47). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.
Which has fewer owner complaints, the Audi Q5 or the Lexus NX?: Adjusted for sales volume, the Lexus NX has a lower complaint rate at 6.3 per 10,000 sold versus 10.4 for the Audi Q5. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

More Audi Q5 comparisons

Audi Q5 vs Mercedes-Benz GLE reliability Audi Q5 reliability by year Audi Q5 years to avoid

More Lexus NX comparisons

Lexus NX vs Mercedes-Benz GLE reliability Lexus NX reliability by year Lexus NX years to avoid

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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