2020 Toyota RAV4 vs 2019 BMW X5

In 2019, the BMW X5 aimed to replicate the experience of driving a sedan despite its 5,000-pound frame. BMW's focus on ride comfort and pavement performance had been commendable since the model's inception. This approach paid off, making it a standout in urban settings rather than off-road adventures. Critics noted its constrained off-road capabilities, but BMW recognized the primary market preference for smooth on-road experiences.

This X5 originally came with a five-passenger setup, expandable to seven, though the third row was tight, more suitable for children than adults. Its power came from either a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine or a 4.4-liter V8, both paired with a smooth-shifting ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. The starting price for the xDrive40i was $60,700 and included AWD, adaptive LED headlights and foglights, a panoramic sunroof, and more. The xDrive50i variant added a V8 engine and premium features, pushing the price to $75,750.

Packages like the Convenience package and Premium Package added features such as keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a head-up display. Higher-tier Executive Package included advanced lighting, soft-close doors, and remote engine start. A variety of options for customization allowed buyers to prioritize comfort, sportiness, or off-road capability. Optional features included rear-seat entertainment and an upgraded stereo system, driving the total price up to $73,980 with additional customizations.

Contrasting sharply, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 received a significant redesign for 2019, giving it a bold, angular look. The RAV4 Adventure trim improved off-road capability with features like torque-vectoring AWD, multiple terrain modes, and higher ground clearance of 8.6 inches.

The new TRD Off-Road trim built on the Adventure's off-road prowess, adding smaller, lighter matte-black alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, and a TRD-specific suspension. Distinguished by its rugged wheels and badges, the TRD Off-Road trim provided versatility for both urban and trail settings. My test vehicle came with Lunar Rock gray paint and a white roof, both of which hid dirt well. Inside, rubber mats and TRD logos complemented quality materials and smart design.

The RAV4 TRD Off-Road trim, priced high at $42,902, featured quality construction with spacious interiors. It topped the trim ladder that started with the LE and extended to the Limited model.

For driving enthusiasts, the BMW X5 in its 2019 iteration offered compelling performance. The xDrive40i's turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine produced 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, eliminating turbo lag and ensuring immediate power delivery. The X5 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in just over 5 seconds, while the xDrive50i's V8 engine pushed out 456 horsepower, achieving the same speed in around 4 seconds.

The 8-speed automatic transmission was particularly praiseworthy. It combined new software, wider gear ratios, and dampers for smooth operation. The air suspension option enhanced the ride quality, offering adjustable height and excellent bump absorption. Fuel efficiency was decent at 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for the 6-cylinder, making it both fast and somewhat economical for a luxury SUV.

Meanwhile, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 came with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Though not turbocharged, the engine felt spirited enough, particularly in Sport mode. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the engine performed adequately but occasionally hesitated between gears.

The TRD Off-Road variant featured a torque-vectoring AWD system, an 8-speed auto, and multi-terrain select settings like Snow, Mud & Sand, and Rock & Dirt. With 8.6 inches of ground clearance and downhill assist control, this RAV4 variant was remarkable off-road and handled urban traffic challenges admirably. Fuel efficiency was average at 23.4 mpg compared to the estimated 27 mpg.

Inside, the 2019 BMW X5 took a more modern approach with its aggressive angular design and dual 12.3-inch screens for the infotainment system. However, some materials felt less luxurious compared to competitors, and seating comfort was mixed. Though spacious, offering 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space (expandable to 72.3 cubic feet), critics noted that the seats could be uncomfortable over longer drives without the luxury seating package.

Cargo accessibility was made easier with features like the air suspension and split rear tailgate, ideal for loading heavy items. The X5 could tow up to 7,200 pounds, making it versatile for various hauling needs.

In contrast, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 excelled in practicality without sacrificing comfort. The seating position was ideal for easy ingress and egress, and the driver's seat was 8-way adjustable. Rear seats were roomy, accommodating adults comfortably. Toyota's SofTex upholstery was a point of contention in hot weather without the Weather Package, which added heated and ventilated seats.

The RAV4 offered generous storage, a dashboard shelf, and rear cargo space of 37.6 cubic feet (69.8 cubic feet with seats down). A robust roof rack further augmented its utility, and a hands-free power liftgate added convenience for loading items.

Technology in the 2019 BMW X5 was a mixed bag. The updated iDrive system, while functional, had usability issues. Gesture control was unpredictable, customizing screens was limited, and voice control was inconsistent. The Driving Assistance Plus package offered Level 2 autonomy but performed poorly at high speeds. Extended Traffic Jam Assistant excelled in stop-and-go traffic, but other driver-assist features were less reliable. The M Sport brakes were a great option, but high-speed hands-free driving was problematic.

For entertainment, options included Parking Assistant Plus and a premium Harman Kardon stereo, with a $4,200 Bowers & Wilkins sound system available for audiophiles.

By comparison, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 provided simple but effective technology. A 7- or 8-inch touchscreen was easy to use despite glare issues, and included features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The optional Technology Package added wireless charging, a surround-view camera, and a digital rear-view mirror, enhancing the vehicle's practicality.

The voice-recognition technology in the RAV4 was particularly impressive, understanding commands readily and improving navigation convenience.

Safety-wise, the 2019 BMW X5 was notable for introducing a new brake-by-wire setup, aiding its semi-autonomous driving features. The X5 received a 4-star rating from NHTSA, with 5-star side crash test scores. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+, awarding high scores across all tests.

Equally impressive, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 came packed with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0), which included advanced safety features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, radar adaptive cruise control, and lane departure alert. Its smooth, accurate operation encouraged drivers to keep the systems engaged. The RAV4 also received a 1-year subscription to Safety Connect services, an above-average offer among automakers. The IIHS rated the RAV4 a Top Safety Pick, provided it had full LED, curve adaptive headlights.