If you’re looking for a luxury electric SUV, there are incredible options available. The 2025 Lexus RZ and Audi Q4 e-tron both offer an upscale driving experience without sacrificing comfort, but they take totally different approaches to electric vehicle (EV) luxury. Let’s compare these SUVs side by side in terms of power, technology, and value to help you determine which one is better for driving in El Monte, California.
Electric Luxury SUV Showdown: What Sets These Premium EVs Apart
The 2025 Lexus RZ is ideal if you prioritize style and brand prestige. It feels like other Lexus SUVs, providing the comfort and status appeal Lexus is known for, while offering the efficiency of electric driving.
Audi’s Q4 e-tron takes a different path. This luxury EV emphasizes German engineering and the brand’s unique quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) heritage.
Both vehicles compete in an expanding luxury EV segment led by BMW, Genesis, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche but distinguish themselves with premium materials, advanced technology, and prestigious badges.
Performance and Driving Experience Comparison
Understanding performance differences is essential in a Lexus vs. Audi comparison. The Lexus RZ 450e produces 308 hp, while Audi’s Q4 55 e-tron delivers 335 hp. The Lexus RZ 450e sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds, with the base RZ model accomplishing it in 7.4 seconds.
The base rear-wheel-drive (RWD) Q4 45 e-tron produces 282 hp and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. The Q4 55 e-tron with AWD races from 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds flat. The AWD systems differ in these SUVs. Lexus uses DIRECT4, which adjusts power between the axles, while Audi’s quattro system provides consistent traction.
While the Q4 e-tron offers a smooth ride and responsive steering, the RZ is quiet, comfortable, and refined, providing a relaxed luxury experience.
Range, Charging, and Efficiency Analysis
The Lexus RZ 450e has a top range of 266 miles per charge. The RWD Q4 45 e-tron achieves 288 miles per charge, while the AWD Q4 55 e-tron manages 258 miles from a 77 kWh battery.
Charging speed sets the Q4 e-tron apart. It can charge from 10% to 80% in 28 minutes with speeds of up to 175 kW. The Lexus RZ has a maximum charging speed of 150 kW and can recharge from 0% to 80% in 30 to 35 minutes using a DC fast charger.
The RZ’s charging capabilities aren’t ideal, but Lexus plans improvements for 2026. Southern California’s mild climate helps both perform consistently year-round.
Interior Design and Comfort Features
The Lexus RZ provides 55.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats down and 34.9 cubic feet when the seats are upright, with plush seating featuring faux suede and synthetic leather. The Q4 e-tron offers 41.2 inches of front legroom and 37.2 inches of second-row legroom, with quality materials giving the interior an upscale feel.
U.S. News gave the Lexus RZ an 8.8 out of 10 for interior quality, compared to the Audi Q4 e-tron’s 7.4 out of 10. Critics note Audi uses high-quality materials, although some hard plastics detract from the Q4 e-tron’s luxurious feel. The RZ offers a comfortable driving experience, with soft-touch materials adding to its appeal.
Technology and Infotainment Systems
A 14-inch touch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard in the Lexus RZ. Audi’s Q4 e-tron includes the Virtual Cockpit Plus and MMI Navigation Plus as standard equipment and offers an augmented reality head-up display.
Audi’s available Sonos stereo system delivers crisp highs and solid volume. Lexus offers a 10-speaker audio system as standard, with a 13-speaker Mark Levinson upgrade available. Both SUVs handle wireless connectivity and driver-assistance integration well.
Safety Features and Driver Assistance
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave both vehicles five-star safety ratings. Standard features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warnings with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Audi’s standard Technology Package adds traffic sign recognition and additional driver aids.
Exterior Design and Practicality
Lexus’ 2025 RZ stands out for its spindle-body design, which provides aerodynamic efficiency and gives the vehicle a stylish exterior. The Q4 e-tron looks sleek and car-like. Its Sportback variant features a sloped roof for improved aerodynamics and a sportier appearance. The Q4 e-tron measures 180.7 inches in length, 64.2 inches in height, and 73.4 inches in width, with a 108.7-inch wheelbase, placing it between the Q3 and Q5 in Audi’s lineup.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The 2025 Audi Q4 e-tron has a starting MSRP of $49,800, with the Q4 e-tron 55 Prestige beginning at $61,800. The base 2025 Lexus RZ 300e has a more affordable starting price of $44,095.
It’s essential to look beyond the sticker price when considering value. Factor in such things as maintenance expenses, insurance costs, and future resale value. Lexus traditionally maintains strong resale values and lower service costs, potentially offsetting Audi’s performance and range advantages. Audi’s faster charging and advanced technology may justify the premium if you travel frequently or love having the newest gadgets.
Find Your Perfect Electric Luxury SUV Match
While the Audi Q4 e-tron offers more range, power, and cargo room, the Lexus RZ wins on interior quality, starting price, and signature comfort. Contact our Longo Lexus team in El Monte to test-drive the RZ and speak with our knowledgeable staff. We can tell you more about the Lexus RZ’s comfort-focused luxury and help you arrange financing.
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