2024 BMW X5 vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Lexus GX, with its massive spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance, certainly had a commanding presence. Its front end, featuring large headlights, looked ready to dominate the road. The GX Black Line Special Edition, limited to 3,000 units, returned with new paint options, including Eminent White Pearl and the exclusive Nori Green Pearl.

Despite its luxury badge, the GX's dimensions seemed compact, with a short 109.8-inch wheelbase and minimal overhangs. The design leaned sleeker compared to Toyota's blocky aesthetics, making it easier to navigate technical driving. However, the interior's plastic materials were disappointing, though luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery were present.

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a stylish appearance, though the M Sport treatment made it resemble a station wagon. Our test vehicle featured optional 21-inch wheels, enhancing its look. The X5 offered various powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder, a turbo-six PHEV, and a turbocharged V8, catering to different preferences.

Our test vehicle, the xDrive50e M Sport, came with Brooklyn Grey paint and every available equipment package, priced at $88,075. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh and introduced the BMW Curved Display, modernizing the interior. Despite reduced physical controls, the X5 retained high-quality materials, tying it to BMW's heritage.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its V8 engine, delivering a linear rise in power and noise. With 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, the 4.6-liter V8, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, didn't excel on paper but offered a satisfying driving experience. However, its 6,500-pound towing capacity and V8-level fuel economy (15 mpg city, 19 highway, 16 combined) were less impressive.

The GX's weight affected its handling, but its roll felt predictable and controllable. The steering was vague off-center, but the brakes were strong and reliable. The Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and standard 4WD system made it user-friendly in various conditions, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced new mild-hybrid engines and a significant upgrade to the xDrive50e PHEV's electric range and power output. The PHEV featured a more powerful electric motor and a 19.2 kWh battery pack, offering 38 miles of electric-only driving and 22 mpg in combined driving. The xDrive50e produced 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds.

The PHEV's adaptive damping air suspension masked its weight, providing a comfortable ride. The X5 excelled in various driving conditions, from city streets to winding roads, delivering impressive efficiency and performance. The brakes performed well, and the quick steering made it enjoyable to drive, even in challenging conditions.

The 2023 Lexus GX offered ample cubby space, with a deep center console bin and convenient cupholders. However, it lacked USB-C ports, and the door pockets were small. The hard buttons for controls were a blessing, though numerous, making it easier to navigate without digging through menus.

The second row was comfortable, with captain's chairs and fold-out cupholders. The third row, however, was too tight for regular use. The side-hinged trunk door required effort to open, and the cargo space was limited, with 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with both rows down.

The 2024 BMW X5 provided room for five people and a 33.1 cubic-foot cargo area, expanding to 71.2 cubic feet with the back seat folded. The split liftgate design offered a convenient seating area but required stretching to reach deep items. The Sensafin artificial leather upholstery felt premium, and the Climate Comfort Package added luxurious features like 20-way power-adjustable front seats, four-zone climate control, and heated rear seats.

Rear-seat passengers enjoyed comfort and a panoramic sunroof, while side window sunshades protected infants. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, requiring a step up to the BMW X7 for that feature.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, revamped in 2022, already felt dated. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, with integrations like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. However, the graphics and responsiveness lagged behind competitors. The GX excelled in off-road capabilities, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, hill-start assist, and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS).

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system, running BMW Operating System 8.5, included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and over-the-air updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, leading to frustrating experiences.

The head-up display and augmented video function for navigation were highlights, but the reduced physical controls were a drawback. The Harman Kardon sound system provided excellent audio quality, enhancing the overall experience.

The 2023 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but it included advanced driver assistance systems like 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 commendable.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, effective in dense traffic and light conditions. However, it occasionally engaged brakes sharply without cause. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance performed well, but the technology's subtle operation was a highlight. The X5 received high ratings from IIHS, though lower headlight ratings prevented an IIHS safety award. NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.