DecodedCarsAudi A8 vs Lexus LS
2026 Audi A8 vs 2026 Lexus LS — two rivals compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
The Audi A8 is more fuel-efficient: 22 vs 21 MPG combined in its best version.
That works out to about $150 a year less in fuel for the Audi A8 (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
The Audi A8 is the bigger car, about 2 inches longer.
Across all model years since 2005, the Lexus LS has had fewer recall campaigns (13 vs 21).
The two cars
The 2026 Audi A8 is a large car offered with a 3.0L 6-cyl turbo engine, including a hybrid version and all-wheel drive. It measures about 209 inches long and 77 inches wide on a 123-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,475 lb.
The 2026 Lexus LS is a midsize car offered with a 3.4L 6-cyl turbo engine and all-wheel drive. It measures about 206 inches long and 75 inches wide on a 123-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,938 lb (500 4dr Sedan).
Buying used? The 2024 A8 and the 2017 LS have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2021 A8 and the 2018 LS.
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 A8 if…
- You want a hybrid or electric option
Choose the Lexus LS if…
- You put reliability history first (13 vs 21 recalls since 2005)
Pros & cons of each
2026 Audi A8
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
- Below-average fuel economyBest version gets 22 MPG combined, 15% below the 2026 large car average of 25.9 MPG.
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
2026 Lexus LS
- Below-average fuel economyBest version gets 21 MPG combined, 33% below the 2026 midsize car average of 31.2 MPG.
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
Full 2026 Audi A8 specs →Full 2026 Lexus LS specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →