DecodedCarsAudi A3 vs Lexus UX
2026 Audi A3 vs 2026 Lexus UX — two rivals compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
The Lexus UX is more fuel-efficient: 43 vs 28 MPG combined in its best version.
That works out to about $1,400 a year less in fuel for the Lexus UX (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
Across all model years since 2005, the Lexus UX has had fewer recall campaigns (4 vs 28).
The two cars
The 2026 Audi A3 is a subcompact car offered with a 2.0L 4-cyl turbo engine and all-wheel drive. It measures about 177 inches long and 72 inches wide on a 104-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 2,866 lb.
The 2026 Lexus UX is a compact car offered with a 2.0L 4-cyl engine, including a hybrid version and front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. It measures about 177 inches long and 72 inches wide on a 104-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,516 lb.
Buying used? The 2024 A3 and the 2024 UX have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2015 A3 and the 2019 UX.
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the Audi A3 if…
It doesn't clearly beat the Lexus UX on any measure we track.
Choose the Lexus UX if…
- You want lower fuel bills (43 vs 28 MPG)
- You want a hybrid or electric option
- You put reliability history first (4 vs 28 recalls since 2005)
Pros & cons of each
2026 Audi A3
- Excellent fuel economyUp to 28 MPG combined — 17% better than the average 2026 subcompact car (24 MPG).
- Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
- Modest powerUp to 201 hp, versus about 311 hp for similar 2026 models.
2026 Lexus UX
- Excellent fuel economyUp to 43 MPG combined — 47% better than the average 2026 compact car (29.2 MPG).
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
- AWD / 4WD available
Full 2026 Audi A3 specs →Full 2026 Lexus UX specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →