A4 B7 vs IS II (XE20): which is better?
Audi A4 B7 (2004–2008) vs Lexus IS II (XE20) (2005–2013): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Audi A4 B7
Lexus IS II (XE20)Specifications
| Audi A4 B7 | Lexus IS II (XE20) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2004–2008 | 2005–2013 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.0 TFSI | 2.5 V6 (IS250) |
| Power, up to | 200 hp | 208 hp |
| Torque, up to | 280 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Gearbox | CVT | automatic |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | rear-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 586 mm | 4 575 mm |
| Width | 1 772 mm | 1 795 mm |
| Height | 1 427 mm | 1 425 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 648 mm | 2 730 mm |
| Fuel tank | 70 L | 65 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 16 475 ₸ | ≈ 29 450 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Audi A4 B7
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 200 hp
- Large tank: 70 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Gearbox Audi multitronic (CVT): chain and clutch pack wear
Gearbox (Audi multitronic (CVT)): chain and clutch pack wear; control unit failure.
Lexus IS II (XE20)
Pros
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: generally reliable
- Powerful versions: up to 208 hp
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Lexus 3GR/4GR-FSE (V6) engine: carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: valve body wear at high mileage
Engine (Lexus 3GR/4GR-FSE (V6)): carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection; oil consumption.
Gearbox (Aisin automatic): generally reliable; at high mileage — valve body wear.
Which one to choose
- A4 B7 — if you care more about: torque, fuel tank, kz tax 2026.
- IS II (XE20) — if you care more about: power, wheelbase.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: A4 B7 or IS II (XE20)?
A4 B7: up to 200 hp, IS II (XE20): up to 208 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: A4 B7 — about 16 475 ₸, IS II (XE20) — about 29 450 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.