2019 BMW X5 vs 2020 Toyota Highlander

The 2019 BMW X5 aimed to emulate the driving experience of a sedan despite being a hefty 5,000-pound crossover. BMW focused on providing a smooth on-road ride rather than off-road capabilities, which was a prophetic move considering most people prefer comfort over off-road agility. The X5 had a five-passenger layout with an optional third-row that wasn't very spacious, making it less ideal for those needing a true seven-passenger vehicle. Under the hood, it offered two turbocharged engines: a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder for the xDrive40i and a 4.4-liter V8 for the xDrive50i, both paired with a seamless ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. Starting at $60,700, the base model was packed with features including AWD, adaptive LED headlights and fog lights, a panoramic sunroof, and a suite of advanced safety features. Higher trims and packages, like the M Sport and Executive, added luxury touches like adaptive M suspension, unique wheels, leather upholstery, and cutting-edge laser headlights.

Conversely, the 2020 Toyota Highlander had a less distinctive exterior design, notable mostly for its slanted tailgate glass and trapezoidal elements. The Highlander ranged across various trims, with the upper trims featuring enhanced exterior lighting and new 20-inch wheels. The interior saw more attention from Toyota, flaunting high-quality materials and a well-finished cabin. The three-tone interior configuration on higher trims added a touch of luxury, and unlike competitors, the Highlander's interior quality was almost without peer except for the Kia Telluride. Features included a range of climate controls, a floating 8-inch touchscreen, padded surfaces, and a versatile second-row seat configuration.

Performance was a key selling point for the 2019 BMW X5. Its 3.0-liter turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine generated 335 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque, making acceleration quick and smooth. The 8-speed ZF automatic transmission was highly efficient, with refined gear changes that contributed to an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined. The more powerful xDrive50i, with its 4.4-liter V8, produced 456 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, able to hit 60 mph in around 4 seconds. Built on BMW’s Cluster Architecture platform, the X5 boasted a balance of strength and lightness, with an adjustable air suspension system that delivered an exceptional ride quality.

In contrast, the 2020 Toyota Highlander was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 hp and 263 lb-ft of torque, available in both FWD and AWD configurations. Its eight-speed automatic transmission managed the engine's power effectively, albeit with a heavy foot required for significant acceleration. The Highlander’s handling was muted, with loose steering and a soft suspension that offered comfort over control, producing a floating sensation at higher speeds. However, it featured selectable driving modes and a torque-vectoring rear axle on upper trims for improved cornering. Despite its less sporty nature, the Highlander offered impressive fuel economy, with the FWD model rated at 21 mpg city, 29 highway, and 24 combined.

The interior of the 2019 BMW X5 had evolved to feature more aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens as part of the iDrive infotainment system. However, optional upscale materials like glass and ceramic buttons were necessary to offset an otherwise basic feel. The seats, although supportive, lacked the optimal comfort for prolonged use without the addition of the Luxury Seating package, which provided ventilation and ergonomic enhancements. The X5 offered ample space with 33.9 cubic feet of cargo capacity, expandable to 72.3 cubic feet. The split rear tailgate and adjustable air suspension facilitated easier loading and unloading. Towing capacity was notable too, handling up to 7,200 pounds.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander excelled in seating flexibility and spaciousness. Accommodating up to eight passengers or seven with captain’s chairs, the second-row offered considerable legroom and reclining adjustments. Access to the third row was designed for easy ingress and egress. The cargo space behind the third row was 16 cubic feet, expanding to 48 cubic feet with the third row down, and a generous 84 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. With its practical storage options like multiple cupholders, bottle holders, and innovative dash shelves, the Highlander proved family-friendly. However, the wireless charging pad's placement could obstruct access to the center console.

Technology in the 2019 BMW X5 was a mixed bag. While the iDrive interface was functional, its gesture controls and voice commands were inconsistent, particularly for users with accents. The Driving Assistance Plus package offered limited hands-off driving capabilities but performed unreliably at high speeds, often necessitating manual intervention. However, the Parking Assistant Plus package with its 3D cameras and night-vision system proved beneficial, and the Harman Kardon stereo provided excellent audio quality.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander’s infotainment system, despite being on a new model, felt outdated. The 12.3-inch touchscreen, available on higher trims, lacked usability due to its partitioned display, and the low-resolution screens detracted from the overall tech experience. However, the Highlander redeemed itself with a high-quality 10-inch head-up display and a 7-inch instrument cluster display. The standard adaptive cruise control and road sign detection added a layer of convenience and safety. While the JBL audio system was decent, Toyota’s interface lagged behind competitors in terms of functionality and modern aesthetics.

Safety features were robust in both vehicles. The 2019 BMW X5 came equipped with a brake-by-wire system, contributing to its semi-autonomous driving capabilities. It received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, reflecting strong performance in various crash tests.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, comprising automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and other driver aids. It also offered a driver’s knee airbag and a cushion airbag for the front passenger. While the NHTSA had not yet rated it, the IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick with high scores across all crash categories, as well as commendable emergency braking performance.