2023 BMW X1 vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 BMW X1 felt like a refined evolution of its predecessor, maintaining its recognizable design while enhancing its robustness. The larger, squarer kidney grille was less startling than the one on the BMW 4 Series, signaling a readiness for more robust air intake. The flush door handles, standard LED headlights, and new L-shaped taillights added to its modernized look. The color palette expanded significantly, offering 13 exterior color choices, including five new options. The X1 also introduced 20-inch wheels for the first time, available with performance tires. Inside, the cabin felt premium with the BMW Curved Display dominating the dash, and the SensaTec 2.0 seat coverings provided a comfortable experience. The M Sport Package added sportier elements, while the Premium Package included a panoramic moonroof, enhancing the overall feel of the interior.

The 2023 Lexus GX, with its massive spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance, had a commanding presence. The front end looked ready to conquer the road, framed by massive headlights. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned with limited availability and exclusive paint colors. Despite its imposing front, the GX's dimensions seemed to shrink along the sides, with a short wheelbase and minimal overhangs, emphasizing its off-road capabilities. The interior, however, was a mix of luxury and disappointment. While it featured heated and cooled front seats, a power-retracting steering wheel, and impressive leather upholstery, the abundance of plastic materials detracted from its luxury badge. The GX's design and features highlighted its off-road engineering, but the interior materials and lack of modern updates were noticeable drawbacks.

The 2023 BMW X1 received a significant power boost with its 2.0-liter twin-turbo four-cylinder engine, producing 241 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This was an increase of 13 horsepower and 37 pound-feet from the previous model, allowing the X1 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and tow up to 3,500 pounds. The new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission replaced the old eight-speed automatic, providing a more engaging driving experience, especially with the M Sport Package's paddle shifters. The upgraded Adaptive M Suspension and damping systems improved comfort and stability, with minimal body roll even in cornering. The X1's fuel economy was rated at 25 mpg city, 34 highway, and 28 combined, with Premium fuel recommended.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While it didn't excel on paper compared to newer engines, the V8 provided a satisfying linear power delivery and a distinctive sound. The GX had a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds but lagged behind other SUVs in fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX's weight contributed to its predictable but noticeable body roll in corners. Despite its age, Lexus continued to improve the GX's driving dynamics, with strong brakes and a Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2023 BMW X1 offered more space than its predecessor, with impressive headroom of 42.1 inches in the front and 39.3 inches in the rear. Front-row legroom was 40.4 inches, while the back row provided 37 inches. Cargo space was a standout feature, with 25.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 57.2 cubic feet with them folded down. Heated seats were an optional $550 upgrade, which also included a heated steering wheel. The wireless charging pad, part of the Premium Package, was cleverly designed to secure the phone even on twisty roads.

The 2023 Lexus GX retained ample cubby space for small items, with a deep center console bin and conveniently placed cupholders. The decision to stick with hard buttons rather than haptic-touch interfaces was a practical choice, though the abundance of buttons required some getting used to. The center console lid's sliding mechanism allowed for adjustable armrests, and the second row was comfortable with good legroom and excellent headroom. However, the third row was too tight for regular use, and the side-hinged trunk door was cumbersome. Cargo space was limited, with only 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with it folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with both rows down.

The 2023 BMW X1 featured the BMW Curved Display with iDrive 8, integrating a 10.7-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch driver information display. The system was responsive and easy to operate, with effective voice commands and smooth touchscreen functionality. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, and the Live Cockpit Plus was standard. The Premium Package added Live Cockpit Professional, a head-up display, and augmented reality navigation. Four USB-C ports were provided, and the optional 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system delivered excellent audio quality. The start/stop button and toggle-style gear selector were user-friendly, with the vehicle automatically shifting into Park when shut off.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, updated in 2022, already felt dated. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integrations. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was still present but unnecessary due to the improved touchscreen. Three years of Lexus Enform Remote were included, and the 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo was standard on the Luxury trim. However, the touchscreen lagged, and the graphics were not as crisp as competitors. The GX excelled in off-road technology, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, hill-start assist, traction control, and stability control. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and Off-Road Package further enhanced its off-road capabilities.

The 2023 BMW X1 came standard with active blind-spot detection, including an exit warning function. The front-collision warning system included pedestrian and cyclist detection with brake intervention. The Active Driving Assistant Professional suite offered speed limit assist, extended traffic-jam assistant, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control with stop & go function. A 360-degree camera system was available as part of the Premium Package, and Active Park Distance Control and Back-Up Assistant provided additional safety features.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it included several advanced driver assistance systems. These included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and automatic high beams. Despite its older design, the GX's safety features were up-to-date, providing a good level of protection.