2023 Toyota 4Runner vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner, particularly the 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE), was a nostalgic nod to the past with its retro body stripes and bronze accents. Built on the SR5 Premium trim, it added a four-wheel-drive system and unique styling elements, making it stand out with a SoCal vibe. The 4Runner's design was reminiscent of classic truck-based SUVs, offering a rugged and enduring appeal. Inside, the cabin was practical, with solid materials and straightforward controls, making it user-friendly even with gloves on.

In contrast, the 2024 BMW X5 maintained a modern and sleek appearance, despite its last redesign in 2019. The xDrive50e M Sport variant featured a light styling refresh and a sophisticated interior with the new BMW Curved Display. The cabin was updated with reduced physical controls and high-quality materials, providing a luxurious feel. The X5's design was more contemporary, aligning with BMW's current lineup, and offered a balance of modern technology and traditional BMW craftsmanship.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. It came with a five-speed automatic transmission, offering a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The 4Runner's off-road capabilities were impressive, with features like Hill-Start Assist Control, Downhill Assist Control, and Active Traction Control. However, its on-road performance was less refined, with leisurely acceleration and heavy steering. The 4Runner averaged 16.9 mpg in combined driving, slightly below its EPA rating of 17 mpg.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV boasted a new mild-hybrid system, delivering 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. It could accelerate to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, offering a thrilling driving experience. The PHEV's electric range was 38 miles, with a combined fuel economy of 22 mpg. The X5 excelled in both electric and hybrid modes, providing a smooth and efficient ride. Its adaptive damping air suspension and quick steering made it agile and responsive, even on challenging roads. The X5's performance was further enhanced by its ability to recuperate energy and improve fuel efficiency during drives.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner offered a practical and spacious interior, with a unique power-down rear window for enhanced ventilation. The second-row seats were roomy and comfortable, while the optional third-row seat was less practical due to limited space. The cargo area provided up to 89.7 cubic feet of space with the second-row seats folded, making it suitable for various adventures. However, the lack of rubber liners in storage areas led to potential rattling and sliding of items.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e provided a luxurious and comfortable cabin, with room for five passengers. The cargo space ranged from 33.1 to 71.2 cubic feet, depending on the seat configuration. The split liftgate design offered a convenient seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The X5's interior featured Sensafin artificial leather and optional multi-contour front seats with heating and ventilation. The panoramic sunroof and climate control options added to the comfort and appeal of the X5 as a family-friendly luxury SUV.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured traditional analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with available upgrades like a JBL premium sound system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and buttons for easy operation. Voice recognition performed well, though it had limitations with certain commands.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system ran on BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a range of connected services. However, the Intelligent Personal Assistant struggled with voice recognition, leading to some frustrating experiences. Despite this, the head-up display and augmented video navigation provided useful driving information.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, its crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Marginal rating from the IIHS for driver protection.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, which worked well in specific traffic conditions. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance provided a smooth driving experience, though there were occasional issues with errant braking. The X5 received high safety ratings from the IIHS, but its headlight ratings prevented it from earning a safety award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.