DecodedCarsAudi A6 vs Lexus LS
2026 Audi A6 vs 2026 Lexus LS — two rivals compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
The Audi A6 is more fuel-efficient: 24 vs 21 MPG combined in its best version.
That works out to about $500 a year less in fuel for the Audi A6 (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
The Lexus LS is the bigger car, about 11 inches longer.
Across all model years since 2005, the Lexus LS has had fewer recall campaigns (13 vs 33).
The two cars
The 2026 Audi A6 is a midsize station wagon offered with a 3.0L 6-cyl turbo engine, including a hybrid version and all-wheel drive. It measures about 197 inches long and 74 inches wide on a 115-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,319 lb (4dr Sedan).
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 A6 and the 2017 LS have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2019 A6 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 A6 if…
- You want lower fuel bills (24 vs 21 MPG)
- You want something easier to park (11 in shorter)
- You want a hybrid or electric option
Choose the Lexus LS if…
- You want more room (11 in longer)
- You put reliability history first (13 vs 33 recalls since 2005)
Pros & cons of each
2026 Audi A6
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
- Lots of standard safety tech4 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
- 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 A6 specs →Full 2026 Lexus LS specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →