2020 Lexus RX vs 2019 BMW X5

The 2019 BMW X5 was designed to offer a driving experience that closely mimicked a sedan, despite its 5,000-pound weight and tall stature. BMW focused on providing a smooth ride on pavement rather than off-road capabilities, which was a forward-thinking approach. The X5 featured a five-passenger layout, expandable to seven, though the third row was cramped. It came with two turbocharged engine options: a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder for the xDrive40i and a 4.4-liter V8 for the xDrive50i, both paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i started at $60,700 and included a suite of features like adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a digital gauge cluster. Various packages allowed for further customization, adding features like keyless entry, satellite radio, and advanced safety systems.

In contrast, the 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing both its interior and exterior. The RX featured standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The grille was redesigned to align with other Lexus models, and new paint colors were introduced. Inside, the RX offered a variety of interior colors and materials, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport package added performance-focused features like aluminum pedals and 20-inch wheels. The cabin was spacious in the two-row configuration, but the third row in the RX-L was best suited for small children. The cargo area was smaller compared to competitors, but a hands-free tailgate was available.

The 2019 BMW X5 was powered by a turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine in the xDrive40i, delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The xDrive50i's 4.4-liter V8 produced 456 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The 8-speed ZF automatic transmission was praised for its smooth operation and efficiency, contributing to an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined for the xDrive40i. The X5's performance was further enhanced by its Cluster Architecture platform, which combined steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber for improved strength and reduced weight. The optional air suspension allowed for adjustable ride height, providing a smooth and sporty ride even on 20-inch run-flat tires. The X5 could tow up to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350L models had slightly lower power outputs. The hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined for the AWD model. The RX offered various drive modes, including Normal, Eco, and Sport, with the F Sport package adding Sport S+ and Customize modes. The RX's handling was enhanced by the adaptive variable suspension in the F Sport models, though it lacked the torque-vectoring technology found in some competitors. The RX provided a smooth and quiet ride, with good maneuverability on highways and rural roads.

The 2019 BMW X5's interior featured a new design with aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens for the iDrive infotainment system. While the design was modern, some materials felt cheap compared to competitors. The seats were not as comfortable as expected, with issues in lumbar support and ventilation. However, the X5 offered ample space, with 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space expandable to 72.3 cubic feet. The split rear tailgate and air suspension made loading cargo easier. The X5 could tow up to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior was not as minimalist or stylish as its German competitors, but it was functional. The two-row RX comfortably seated four adults, while the three-row RX-L's third row was best for small children. The cabin was spacious in the two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and good outward visibility. The cargo area was smaller than competitors, with a high load floor that compromised space. The RX 350L and 450hL had even less cargo space compared to rivals like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on the RX 350 and 450h models and standard on the RX-L versions.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology was a mixed bag. The gesture control and voice controls were not always reliable, and the iDrive interface, while well-designed, took time to learn. The Driving Assistance Plus package offered limited hands-off driving but was not very effective at high speeds. The Extended Traffic Jam Assistant worked well in stop-and-go traffic. The Parking Assistant Plus package provided automatic parallel parking and a 3D camera. The Harman Kardon stereo offered excellent sound, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound system available for audiophiles.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system had been criticized but saw improvements in 2020. The standard 8.0-inch display and available 12.3-inch touchscreen were moved closer to the driver. The system was still difficult to navigate, but Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other integrations helped mitigate issues. The center console touchpad system was more responsive, and the RX now had six USB ports. The standard 12-speaker audio system was adequate, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system available. A CD player was also standard, catering to audiophiles.

The 2019 BMW X5 featured a new brake-by-wire setup, providing a nearly natural feel with some unfamiliar feedback during the last moments of braking. The X5 received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA, with 4-star ratings in frontal crash and rollover tests, and 5-star ratings in side crash tests. The IIHS named the X5 a Top Safety Pick+ with top scores in all tests.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. The RX also featured daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign assist, and lane-tracing assist. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models.