Audi
A6
Owner report available
Lexus
GS
Owner report available
Audi A6 vs Lexus GS
The short answer
Based on available data, the Lexus GS comes out ahead of the Audi A6 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
A6
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and powertrain. For the C7 (approx. 2012-2018) and C8 (approx. 2019-2023) generations, owner feedback is generally positive, praising the cars for their refined driving experience, comfortable and quiet ride, spacious interiors, and strong performance from the 3.0-liter engines (both TFSI and TDI). The A6 Allroad variant, in particular, receives high marks for its air suspension comfort, practicality, and impressive highway fuel economy.
Best version to buy
For the C7/C8 generations, the A6 Allroad 55 TDI (in Europe) and the A6 3.0T (55 TFSI) are highly recommended for their robust power delivery, torque, and reported reliability. The Prestige trim is favored for its comprehensive technology and comfort features, including the head-up display, massaging seats, and superior sound insulation.
Known issues
- High maintenance and repair costs: very frequent. General concerns about long-term reliability and expensive out-of-warranty repairs: very frequent. Wireless CarPlay connectivity issues (dropping, failure to connect): recurrent.
GS
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding long-term reliability, build quality, and overall ownership experience. The GS is consistently praised as a durable, comfortable, and well-built luxury sedan that delivers trouble-free service for many years and high mileage, with specific examples cited up to 350,000 miles. It is described as a perfect sports sedan for a broad number of use cases, offering a good balance of power, roomy comfort, and sportiness.
Best version to buy
The 2010-2011 model years for the third-generation (GS 350) are specifically highlighted as the best years. For the fourth generation, the AWD models equipped with the older 6-speed automatic transmission (over the later 8-speed) are preferred by some owners for their better drivetrain pairing.
Known issues
- Outdated technology/infotainment: Lack of Apple CarPlay, slow and unresponsive screen, missing features like birds-eye view camera and massaging seats compared to rivals. Frequency: very frequent.
- Higher running costs: Requires premium fuel, expensive tires (especially F-Sport run-flats), and generally higher costs for parts and maintenance compared to non-luxury brands. Frequency: very frequent.
- Underwhelming performance for segment: Naturally aspirated V6 (2GR-FKS) perceived as not fast, especially compared to turbocharged German competitors; 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) times around 5.9 seconds noted. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Lexus GS is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Audi A6, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Lexus GS are a dealbreaker, the Audi A6 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
Other comparisons
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi A6 or the Lexus GS?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Lexus GS than the Audi A6. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Audi A6 or the Lexus GS?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi A6 or the Lexus GS?
The EPA rates the 2027 Audi A6 at 105–127 MPGe combined and the 2020 Lexus GS at 19–23 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi A6 or the Lexus GS?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Audi A6 than the Lexus GS. See the known issues comparison above.