2026 Lexus RX vs. 2027 Infiniti QX65: Which Luxury Crossover Wins?

When it comes to luxury crossovers, the Lexus RX basically invented the segment and continues to sell in droves to this day, but today we have a new challenger aiming to take down the reigning leader: the all-new Infiniti QX65. So, can this stylish newcomer replicate the formula and dethrone the RX in this 2026 Lexus RX vs. 2027 Infiniti QX65 battle? Let’s dive into the details, and make sure to watch our full comparison on YouTube!

Exterior Design & Features

Both the Lexus RX and Infiniti QX65 bring distinct design philosophies to the midsize luxury crossover space, ensuring they stand out on the road.

• The Visual Vibe: The Lexus RX features its iconic and distinct spindle grille with a “unified” evolution, keeping its design on the conservative and elegant side. In contrast, the QX65 goes for a much more aggressive and sharp look, utilizing a bold grille and gloss black accents that harken back to the classic FX styling.
• Lighting Tech: Both models come equipped with full LED headlights featuring their respective brands’ newest signatures, as well as fully-LED taillamps. While the RX adds LED fog lamps into the mix, the QX65 fights back with unique lighting animations upon entry.
• Wheel/Stance: Both SUVs ride on large 21-inch alloy wheels, but the QX65 has a noticeably larger stance, measuring 6 inches longer than the RX (198.5 inches vs. 192.5 inches). The Infiniti also adds curb appeal with an exclusive two-tone roof option and a sleek, sloping roofline flowing into the rear.

Performance, Powertrain & Capability

Under the hood, both crossovers rely on turbocharged 4-cylinder engines that deliver smooth daily driving, but the Lexus holds a slight edge in off-the-line torque and fuel efficiency.

Interior Tech & Luxury Highlights

Stepping inside, both cabins offer a mix of practical luxury and impressive technology, creating a high-end environment for the driver.

• Materials: Both cabins exhibit solid build quality and utilize plush leatherette, real wood decor, and soft-touch materials throughout. The seats on both models feature supple semi-aniline leather with heating, ventilation, and memory functions.
• Screens: The Lexus slightly edges out on paper with a 14-inch main display, compared to the Infiniti’s 12.3-inch screen. However, the QX65’s system offers Google Built-in services to download other apps from the Play Store. Both feature 12.3-inch digital gauge clusters and large head-up displays.
• Standout Feature: The Infiniti QX65 boasts the luxurious touch of massage seats and an impressive 20-speaker Klipsch audio system with headrest speakers, alongside the latest Qi2 ventilated wireless charger. The Lexus RX fires back with 14-way power-adjustable seats, electronic door handles, and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson PurePlay audio system.

Occupant & Rear Seat Space

While both SUVs offer excellent comfort, the Infiniti’s larger exterior dimensions pay huge dividends when it comes to cargo volume.

• Rear Seats: The Lexus RX 350 offers 37.4 inches of legroom and 37.0 inches of headroom, and includes ventilated rear seats and sunshades. The Infiniti QX65 provides 35.7 inches of legroom and 36.9 inches of headroom, though it offers 2 extra inches of realistic knee room, and the seats can uniquely slide forward and back.
• Cargo Space: Behind the second row, the Lexus provides 29.6 cu.ft. of space, maxing out at 46.2 cu.ft. with power-return folding seats. The Infiniti offers a massive 35.8 cu.ft. behind the second row and up to 67.7 cu.ft. maximum, granting it an almost 38% maximum storage advantage over the RX.

Reliability and Resale Value

• Brand Ranking: According to our Combined Reliability Index, Lexus is currently rated as the best brand in the industry, whereas Infiniti is below the overall industry average. Lexus also holds its value much better, retaining about 12% more of its value after 5 years and 60,000 miles.
• The Safety Net: Both brands offer similar coverage with a 4-year basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, Infiniti provides a longer 3-year complimentary maintenance term compared to Lexus’s 2 visits.

For a deeper dive into how these brands stack up over time, check out our dedicated Reliability & Resale Rankings at Car Confections.

Final Verdict: Lexus RX vs. infiniti QX65

These two crossovers deliver on luxury, tech, and comfort, making them fantastic choices in the midsize luxury segment.

• The “As-Tested” Price: The 2026 Lexus RX 350 Luxury AWD rings in at $68,870, while the 2027 Infiniti QX65 Autograph AWD comes in at $67,835.
• Choose the 2026 Lexus RX 350 if you want class-leading ride comfort, industry-best reliability and resale value, and the option for multiple hybrid powertrains.
• Choose the 2027 Infiniti QX65 if you prioritize a much more spacious cargo area, aggressive and sporty design styling, and exclusive luxury touches like massaging seats.

Which would you take home? Let us know in the comments section!