Q8 e-tron vs RX 350
Rivals in the midsize luxury suv class rarely match spec for spec, and the Q8 e-tron and the RX 350 are no exception. Neither side dominates. Only a few of the compared specs differ by enough to matter day to day.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Q8 e-tron wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance4.8
- Engine & Performance1.2
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 Q8 e-tron has 127 hp more power
The Q8 e-tron doesn’t just edge this one; 402 hp against 275 hp is a lead you’ll feel. The Q8 e-tron’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
-
The Q8 e-tron has 173 lb-ft more torque
Big gap, real consequences. The Q8 e-tron’s 490 lb-ft versus the RX 350’s 317 lb-ft changes how the two compare in daily use. Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | Q8 e-tron | RX 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 112.2 in |
Engine & Performance
Q8 e-tron leads
The RX 350 is outclassed on engine & performance; the Q8 e-tron leads by a clear margin. The Q8 e-tron has the edge with 127 hp more power. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board. The engine & performance verdict goes to the Q8 e-tron.
Total system output
Q8 e-tron: 402 hp RX 350: 275 hp Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
Torque
Q8 e-tron: 490 lb-ft RX 350: 317 lb-ft More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
On paper, the space & practicality comparison ends all square. Neither car gives you a reason to choose it on space & practicality.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
There’s little to choose between them when it comes to off-road & towing. Either car will serve you equally well on off-road & towing.
Safety & Tech
This section is descriptive. The Q8 e-tron and the RX 350 list different components for safety & tech, and the table spells them out.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Q8 e-tron | RX 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Electric | Gas |
| Engine | Dual electric motors | 2.4L turbo I4 |
| Total system output | 402 hp (winner) | 275 hp |
| Torque | 490 lb-ft (winner) | 317 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 1-speed direct drive | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD (quattro) | FWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Q8 e-tron | RX 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Electric range | 272 mi Shortest electric range | N/A (not specified) |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Q8 e-tron | RX 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | N/A (not specified) | 29.6 cu ft |
| Cargo (seats folded) | N/A (not specified) | 46.2 cu ft Least room, seats folded |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Q8 e-tron | RX 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Max towing | N/A (not specified) | 3,500 lb |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Q8 e-tron | RX 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Largest touchscreen | N/A (not specified) | 14 in |
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | Q8 e-tron | RX 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 112.2 in |
“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 Q8 e-tron if…
- you merge, overtake or climb hills with a full load (402 hp vs 275 hp)
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (490 lb-ft vs 317 lb-ft of torque)
- you’re loyal to Audi and happy with it
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the Q8 e-tron or the RX 350?
On the specs compared here, the Q8 e-tron makes more sense for most buyers; the RX 350 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Here’s my take on Audi’s Q8 e-tron versus Lexus’s RX 350. Start with the headline difference (the Q8 e-tron has 127 hp more power), and a lot of the decision falls into place.
Put simply, the Q8 e-tron suits people who care about engine & performance, while the RX 350 suits people who put the things a spec sheet can’t capture first.
My pick: the Q8 e-tron.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.