2023 Lexus RX vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2023 Lexus RX presented a refined exterior with a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase, maintaining the same overall length as its predecessor. Despite offering more cargo space than the 2022 model, it appeared smaller due to design changes like reduced rear overhang and softer lines. The signature spindle-style grille was seamlessly integrated, enhancing the modern look with a mesh texture and elevated hood. The RX's rear featured a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper, while the interior boasted a modern setup with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. Quality materials like NuLuxe artificial leather and real wood trims elevated the cabin's appeal.

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, retained its timeless styling, though the M Sport treatment was less favored. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch wheels and a light styling refresh, aligning it with other BMW models. The interior was modernized with the BMW Curved Display, reducing physical controls while maintaining high-quality materials. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder, a PHEV, and a turbo V8, with various trim packages and options available. The xDrive50e PHEV model, in particular, showcased impressive electric range and power output, making it a standout choice.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350, tested in both Luxury and F Sport Handling trims, featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. This engine offered better torque and fuel economy than the previous V6, though it lacked the same refinement. The RX 350 Luxury displayed occasional torque steer and body motion, while the F Sport Handling trim felt more secure with its adaptive suspension. Both models accelerated to 60 mph in around 7.2 to 7.5 seconds, with fuel economy results slightly below expectations at 22.5 mpg for FWD and 21.8 mpg for AWD.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV impressed with its new mild-hybrid engines and enhanced electric range. The PHEV's electric motor, integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission, delivered 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The X5 PHEV achieved 38 miles of electric-only driving and 33.7 mpg in hybrid mode. Equipped with adaptive damping air suspension, the X5 handled well, offering excellent acceleration, grip, and steering response. The PHEV's ability to recharge during drives and its impressive fuel economy made it a compelling choice.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 offered comfortable seating, with the F Sport Handling package providing sportier bolsters. The Luxury trim featured premium leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and a sophisticated interior design. The RX's back seat was roomy, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. Cargo space improved over the previous model, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.2 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e provided ample space for five passengers and a 33.1 cubic-foot cargo area, expandable to 71.2 cubic feet. The split liftgate design offered convenience but required stretching to access deep cargo. The X5's interior featured standard Sensafin artificial leather, with optional 20-way power-adjustable seats and climate comfort upgrades. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed comfort and panoramic sunroof views, though a third-row seat was no longer available.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system with a choice of touchscreen displays, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services. The system included Drive Connect with Intelligent Assistant voice recognition, though it occasionally misinterpreted commands. The RX also offered a Mark Levinson premium sound system, digital instrumentation, and optional head-up display, though polarized sunglasses could hinder visibility.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital panel and 14.9-inch touchscreen running iDrive 8.5. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services, though the Intelligent Personal Assistant struggled with voice recognition accuracy. The X5 offered a Harman Kardon sound system and an effective head-up display, though the reduction in physical controls was less favorable.

The 2023 Lexus RX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering advanced driving assistance features like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. New semi-autonomous technologies included Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist. However, some features, like curve-speed reduction, were less effective, and the HUD's visibility was compromised with polarized sunglasses.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced Highway Assistant for hands-free driving, effective in specific traffic conditions but less so in moderate traffic. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance worked well, though occasional errant braking occurred. The X5 received high safety ratings from the IIHS, though lower headlight ratings prevented an award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.