i don't really think comparing these two cars is apples to apples...Lexus doesn't make a compact crossover. they are similar in price when comparably equipped, thus, the comparison. since i have two young girls (age 3 and 6), i just don't see why i would pick the Q5 over the RX, based on size alone. i've owned (and loved) an Audi in the past but now that kids are in the mix, the added size and comfort (not to mention reliability and resale value) of the RX takes precedence over the driving dynamics that are most likely better in the Q5. am i missing something? i think if i took my wife to see the Q5, she would say "too small" and that would be the end of it.

not the new 2010 RX-350

But having seen the new RX - it is larger inside and the cargo area is much larger. We've had our RX since 2001 and it was great for when our daughter was growing up (now in College) - it's a perfect soccer mom/ hwy cruiser with safety and comfort abound.

Friend of mine moves about 40 new RX350 a month, and he swears by them. He seems to like the drive, suggesting that it is not quite a BMW-like (not that it is necessarily a good thing), but certainly up there. If I was looking for a similar small SUV, I would check out both.