Q4 e-tron vs NX 250
Audi brings the Q4 e-tron; Lexus answers with the NX 250. Both play in the compact luxury suv class. If you were hoping for a knockout, this isn’t it. The Q4 e-tron and the NX 250 stay within reach of each other almost everywhere.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Q4 e-tron wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance6.9
- Engine & Performance0.0
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The Q4 e-tron has 79 hp more power
The Q4 e-tron clearly leads on total system output, and 282 hp versus 203 hp is a difference that reaches well beyond the spec sheet. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
-
The Q4 e-tron has 218 lb-ft more torque
On torque, the Q4 e-tron posts 402 lb-ft against 184 lb-ft for the NX 250, a gap big enough to feel in everyday use. More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
Q4 e-tron leads
On engine & performance, the gap between these two is wide, and it favors the Q4 e-tron. On its side, the Q4 e-tron has 79 hp more power. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board. That makes the Q4 e-tron the natural choice for buyers focused on engine & performance.
Total system output
Q4 e-tron: 282 hp NX 250: 203 hp The Q4 e-tron’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
Torque
Q4 e-tron: 402 lb-ft NX 250: 184 lb-ft The Q4 e-tron’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
Side by side, the space & practicality figures for the Q4 e-tron and the NX 250 barely differ. Don’t let space & practicality decide this one; look at the other sections instead.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
In the off-road & towing category, the Q4 e-tron and the NX 250 land in almost the same place. So off-road & towing is a non-factor here; move on to the areas where they actually differ.
Safety & Tech
For safety & tech, the spec sheet lists components and formats rather than figures we can rank. The table shows what the Q4 e-tron and the NX 250 each bring.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Q4 e-tron | NX 250 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Electric | Gas |
| Engine | Single rear electric motor | 2.5L I4 |
| Total system output | 282 hp (winner) | 203 hp Least powerful in class |
| Torque | 402 lb-ft (winner) | 184 lb-ft Least torque in class |
| Transmission | 1-speed direct drive | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD (quattro AWD available) | FWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Q4 e-tron | NX 250 |
|---|---|---|
| Electric range | 288 mi Shortest electric range | N/A (not specified) |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Q4 e-tron | NX 250 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | N/A (not specified) | 22.7 cu ft |
| Cargo (seats folded) | N/A (not specified) | 46.9 cu ft Least room, seats folded |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Q4 e-tron | NX 250 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Q4 e-tron | NX 250 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
Price
| Spec | Q4 e-tron | NX 250 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $49,800 | N/A (not specified) |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Q4 e-tron if…
- you want more power (282 hp vs 203 hp)
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (402 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft of torque)
- you’re loyal to Audi and happy with it
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the Q4 e-tron or the NX 250?
On the specs compared here, the Q4 e-tron makes more sense for most buyers; the NX 250 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
If it were just about the brand, you wouldn’t be here. So let’s talk about the Q4 e-tron and the NX 250 on their merits. What I like most about the Q4 e-tron here is 79 hp more power.
If you’d rather have strength in engine & performance, go with the Q4 e-tron. If the things a spec sheet can’t capture is what you’d miss, go with the NX 250.
My pick: the Q4 e-tron.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.