2021 BMW X7 vs 2020 Lexus RX

The 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing both its interior and exterior. The updates were more than just minor tweaks, as the styling changes allowed the RX to stand out in a competitive market. Despite its age, the RX maintained a stylish edge over its Toyota counterparts. The exterior 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 like Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl were introduced. The rear of the vehicle was updated with a new shape, dual exhaust, rear diffuser, and reflectors, along with an available hands-free tailgate.

Inside, the RX continued to offer a well-appointed cabin with various interior color and material combinations, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport appearance package added unique features like a special steering wheel, shift knob, aluminum pedals, and 20-inch wheels, among others. The leather-wrapped surfaces provided a premium feel, and the interior was designed to withstand family life. However, the center stack's design, housing the climate controls, appeared dated as the industry moved towards more modern and streamlined designs.

The 2021 BMW X7 was a standout in its class, offering superior interior quality compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and more prestige than the Infiniti QX80 or Lincoln Navigator. It boasted advanced technological sophistication over the Lexus LX 570 and a significant visual presence compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. The X7 was available in three versions: the xDrive40i, M50i, and Alpina BX7, with prices starting at $74,900, $99,800, and $141,300, respectively. The xDrive40i test vehicle featured 22-inch aluminum wheels, premium extended leather, and a trailer hitch, among other options, bringing the total cost to $91,745.

The X7's styling was appealing, with traditional BMW cues and enough glamour to assert its position at the top of BMW's SUV lineup. Inside, the X7 shared many features with the X5, offering high-tech design, high-quality materials, and mostly intuitive controls. The massive grille, a trendsetter for BMW, suited the large SUV, although it might not be as fitting on smaller BMW models. Overall, the X7's design and features made it a compelling choice for those seeking luxury and performance in a family-friendly package.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. The three-row RX 350L models had slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The RX 450h hybrid version combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, with a recommendation for 95 octane fuel. The RX 450hL, an elongated hybrid version, produced 259 horsepower from the gasoline engine and 165 horsepower from an electric motor, supported by a 37-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The hybrid models featured an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive, with an additional motor on the rear axle for extra power.

The RX was not known for athleticism, taking 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph, but it provided sufficient power for most driving situations. The RX 350 achieved an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined, while the RX 450h offered impressive fuel economy at 30 mpg combined. The F Sport models included adaptive variable suspension and 20-inch wheels for improved agility, along with various drive modes like Normal, Eco, and Sport. The RX delivered a smooth driving experience with good throttle response and shifting, although it struggled in snowy conditions without torque-vectoring technology.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive AWD system. The eBoost mild-hybrid technology added a 48-volt starter/generator and battery, enhancing fuel economy and responsiveness. However, the 2021 model's EPA ratings were slightly lower than the previous year, with 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering ample power for most driving scenarios.

Despite its power, the X7's driving experience was marred by excessive body motions, even with the optional Dynamic Handling Package. The self-leveling air suspension struggled to eliminate rocking and rolling, affecting passenger comfort. However, the X7 excelled in providing a smooth and serene ride, with features like Active Comfort Drive and Integral Active Steering enhancing maneuverability and stability. The X7's weight was noticeable on highways, but it maintained effortless speed and fluidity, with M Sport brakes ensuring reliable stopping power.

The 2020 Lexus RX interior was functional but not as stylish as its German competitors. The two-row RX comfortably accommodated four adults, while the three-row RX-L's third row was best suited for small children or pets. The cabin was spacious in its two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and good visibility, although the A-pillar could obstruct the driver's view. The RX's cargo area was smaller than rivals, with a high load floor limiting space. The RX 350L and 450hL also offered less cargo space compared to competitors like the Lincoln Aviator.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was luxurious, with features like heated and ventilated front seats, massaging functions, and premium Merino leather upholstery. The front seats provided exceptional comfort, and the second-row captain's chairs were equally comfortable, although the long rear doors could make entry and exit challenging. The X7's third-row seat was surprisingly accommodating for adults, with a five-zone climate control system ensuring comfort for all passengers. The power clamshell tailgate revealed limited cargo space behind the third row, but folding the seats expanded capacity to 48.6 cubic feet, with a maximum of 90.4 cubic feet available.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was often criticized, but improvements were made for 2020, including moving the display closer to the driver. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was still challenging to navigate, but Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other integrations helped mitigate issues. The RX featured a standard 12-speaker audio system, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured the iDrive 7.0 infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, offering Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The system included enhanced SiriusXM 360L, Connected Package Pro, and a WiFi hotspot. The natural voice-recognition system was effective, although gesture control was inconsistent. The X7 also had a head-up display, although visibility was limited with polarized sunglasses.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional features like daytime bicyclist detection and lane-tracing assist were standard. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, although not as high as newer models.

The 2021 BMW X7 included standard safety features, with optional packages adding advanced driving assistance systems. The Driving Assistance Professional Package offered features like evasive-steering assist and traffic-jam assist, while the Parking Assistance Package included semi-automated parking and a surround-view camera. The X7's safety technology was generally effective, although some systems were occasionally reactive rather than proactive.