Is the Audi Q8 more reliable than the Lexus GX?

Based on our data, the Lexus GX is more reliable with an average score of 79/100 compared to 63/100. That's a significant difference worth considering.

Which has more recalls, the Audi Q8 or the Lexus GX?

The Audi Q8 has more recalls (43) compared to the Lexus GX (6). 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 Q8 or the Lexus GX?

Adjusted for sales volume, the Lexus GX has a lower complaint rate at 1 per 10,000 sold versus 21.4 for the Audi Q8. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

Last updated: 2026-03-28

Audi Q8 vs Lexus GX: Reliability Compared

Audi Q8

Good

More Reliable

Lexus GX

Good

Choosing between the Audi Q8 and the Lexus GX? 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 full-size suvs.

Our reliability scores are based on NHTSA recall and complaint data, independent repair cost estimates, and sales-normalized complaint rates. The Lexus GX currently leads with an average score of 79/100 compared to 63/100. Scroll down for the full year-by-year breakdown, common problem areas, and repair cost comparison.

How Do the Audi Q8 and Lexus GX Generations Compare?

As of 2026, the Lexus GX is in its third generation (J250), which debuted in 2024. This means it is relatively new in its cycle, and buyers should be aware that newer platforms can sometimes exhibit first-year issues as manufacturers work out early production kinks. The previous second generation (J150) ran from 2010 to 2023, with facelifts in 2014 and 2020, suggesting a mature and well-sorted platform. The Audi Q8, meanwhile, remains in its first generation since its introduction in 2019, with a notable facelift in 2024. Being later in its generation cycle, the Q8's platform is likely more refined and reliable due to the resolution of initial issues over time. Buyers may find the Q8's established platform offers a track record of reliability compared to the newer GX.

Verdict

The Lexus GX is more reliable than the Audi Q8, scoring 79/100 vs 63/100.

The Lexus GX stands out as the more reliable choice between the two, with an impressive average reliability score of 79/100 compared to the Audi Q8's 63/100. The GX has had only 6 recalls over nine years, whereas the Q8 has experienced 43 recalls in eight years. Additionally, the GX reports significantly fewer owner complaints per 10,000 units sold, at just 1, compared to the Q8's 21.4. Although specific repair cost estimates for the GX are unavailable, the Q8's high annual repair cost of $1,127 further highlights its potential for higher maintenance needs.

Key Differences

1Lexus GX has 37 fewer total recalls
2Lexus GX has 20.4 fewer complaints per 10k sold
3Lexus GX scores 16 points higher in reliability

Category Scoreboard

0Audi Q8

—

3Lexus GX

Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint Rate

Audi Q8 vs Lexus GX: Which Is More Reliable?

Audi Q8 vs Lexus GX at-a-glance reliability comparison
Metric	Audi Q8	Lexus GX
Reliability Score	63/100	79/100
Years Tracked	8	9
Total Recalls	43	6
Complaints per 10k Sold	21.4	1
Year Wins	0	7

What Are the Common Problems With the Audi Q8 and Lexus GX?

The Lexus GX has a relatively low total complaint count of 53, with its main issues stemming from the service brakes and electrical system, the latter including one crash-linked incident. In contrast, the Audi Q8 has a significantly higher total of 180 complaints, with the majority concerning the electrical system and power train, indicating these as key areas of concern. The Q8 also has a higher number of crash-linked complaints, notably in the steering category, which raises potential safety concerns. While both vehicles have complaints related to the electrical and engine systems, the Q8's broader range of issues, including more severe safety-related concerns, suggests a more problematic reliability profile compared to the GX.

Audi Q8 vs Lexus GX common problem areas comparison
Component	Audi Q8	Lexus GX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	6.4Average	0.1Very Low
POWER TRAIN	5.1Average	—None
STEERING	1.8Low	—None
ENGINE	1.8Low	—None
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	1.1Low	0.1Very Low
FUEL SYSTEM	1.1Low	—None
SERVICE BRAKES	0.6Very Low	0.1Very Low
SEAT BELTS	0.2Very Low	—None
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE	0.2Very Low	—None
BACK OVER PREVENTION	0.2Very Low	—None
SUSPENSION	—None	0.1Very Low
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	—None	—None

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

Which Is Cheaper to Maintain: Audi Q8 or Lexus GX?

Independent repair cost data indicates that the Audi Q8 incurs an annual repair cost of $1,127, with an average of 0.7 visits to the shop per year. Unfortunately, specific data for the Lexus GX is unavailable, but Lexus models traditionally boast lower maintenance costs and fewer repair visits, aligning with their reputation for reliability. This suggests that the Lexus GX might offer a better value for cost-conscious buyers, potentially reducing the likelihood of unexpected expenses. For those prioritizing long-term savings and reliability, the Lexus GX may present a more favorable option compared to the Audi Q8.

How Does Audi Q8 vs Lexus GX Reliability Compare by Year?

Audi Q8 vs Lexus GX year-by-year reliability scores
Year	Audi Q8	Lexus GX	Edge
2025	67/1002R / 1C	78/1001R / 7C	Lexus GX
2024	64/1008R / 16C	77/1002R / 13C	Lexus GX
2023	67/1003R / 2C	81/1000R / 5C	Lexus GX
2022	65/1007R / 5C	81/1000R / 7C	Lexus GX
2021	60/10014R / 28C	80/1000R / 1C	Lexus GX
2020	63/1004R / 25C	81/1000R / 4C	Lexus GX
2019	53/1005R / 103C	78/1001R / 8C	Lexus GX
2026(predicted)	66/100(predicted)	79/100(predicted)	Lexus GX

Best years to cross-shop: The 2025 Audi Q8 scored 67/100 and the 2023 Lexus GX scored 81/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Audi Q8 vs the Lexus GX?

If you prioritize reliability and peace of mind, the Lexus GX is your best bet. With a reliability score of 79/100 and only 6 total recalls, it promises fewer headaches down the road. The GX also boasts a notably low owner complaint rate of just 1 per 10,000 sold, suggesting a consistently positive ownership experience. While specific repair costs aren't available, the lower number of issues like service brakes and suspension problems indicate potential savings in maintenance. On the other hand, the Audi Q8 might appeal to those who are willing to trade reliability for luxury and performance. However, with a reliability score of 63/100 and 43 recalls, expect more frequent trips to the service center. The estimated annual repair cost of $1,127 and higher complaint rate of 21.4 per 10,000 sold highlight potential ongoing expenses. If these factors align with your priorities, the Q8 might still be worth considering for its premium features and design.

Audi Q8 vs Lexus GX: Common Questions

Is the Audi Q8 more reliable than the Lexus GX?: Based on our data, the Lexus GX is more reliable with an average score of 79/100 compared to 63/100. That's a significant difference worth considering.
Which has more recalls, the Audi Q8 or the Lexus GX?: The Audi Q8 has more recalls (43) compared to the Lexus GX (6). 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 Q8 or the Lexus GX?: Adjusted for sales volume, the Lexus GX has a lower complaint rate at 1 per 10,000 sold versus 21.4 for the Audi Q8. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

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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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