2024 Lexus TX vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, although the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, and a turbocharged V8 engine, with various trim packages and options available. The xDrive50e M Sport model tested came with Brooklyn Grey paint and a comprehensive set of equipment packages, priced at $88,075. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh and introduced the BMW Curved Display, enhancing the interior's modernity while retaining high-quality materials and construction.

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, distinguished itself as a luxury SUV with upscale styling. The test model, in Luxury trim, featured striking 22-inch wheels that enhanced its appearance. The TX's design was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a toned-down aesthetic. The TX lineup included the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $55,050 to $69,350. The TX 350, tested in Luxury trim with FWD, had a base price of $60,950 and included various packages and features, totaling $67,869. The interior boasted premium materials and features, though the dark color scheme was noted. The TX 350 Luxury model's interior was deemed luxurious enough for the Lexus badge.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured new mild-hybrid engines and an upgraded electric range, with a more powerful electric motor and a 19.2 kWh battery. It offered 38 miles of electric-only driving and 22 mpg in hybrid mode. The xDrive50e produced 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV was praised for its performance, efficiency, and driving dynamics, with adaptive damping air suspension and excellent handling. It achieved an average fuel economy of 38.8 mpg during testing, with impressive electric-only range and regenerative braking capabilities.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in eight seconds with FWD and 7.8 seconds with AWD. The TX 350's performance was adequate, with a combined fuel economy rating of 23 mpg for the FWD model. During testing, it averaged 20.4 mpg. The AWD option improved traction and acceleration but slightly reduced fuel economy. The TX 350's ride and handling were well-balanced, with a comfortable suspension and quiet interior. The brake pedal was soft but easy to modulate.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious interior with room for five passengers and a cargo area of 33.1 cubic feet, expandable to 71.2 cubic feet. The split liftgate design provided a seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The test vehicle featured Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, sport seats, and the Climate Comfort Package, which included 20-way power-adjustable front seats, four-zone climate control, and heated features. The panoramic sunroof and side window sunshades enhanced passenger comfort. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, requiring a step up to the BMW X7 for that feature.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 Luxury model featured premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row bench seat was standard, with optional captain's chairs. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, offering better comfort than previous models. The TX provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 57.4 cubic feet with the third row folded and 97 cubic feet with the second row down. The interior had numerous storage options, though some lacked lining, and the split front center armrest design was criticized.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It ran BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, connected services, and over-the-air updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, leading to inaccurate directions and responses. The head-up display and augmented video function for navigation were praised, but the reduction in physical controls was seen as a drawback.

The 2024 Lexus TX, equipped with the optional Technology Package, included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, head-up display, digital rearview mirror, surround-view camera, and semi-autonomous parking assist. The unmarked steering wheel controls were criticized for requiring reference to the head-up display, which was often invisible with polarized sunglasses. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Drive Connect subscription added cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX also provided free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, along with Wi-Fi and Remote Connect features. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system was highly regarded.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, which required deliberate activation. It performed well in dense or light traffic but could behave unexpectedly in moderate traffic. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance were effective, though occasional errant braking was noted. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS, but lower headlight ratings prevented an award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall crash-test rating.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was part of the system but was turned off due to unclear brake light activation. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and safe exit assist. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds but lacked a higher-speed option. LSS+ 3.0 was generally smooth and effective, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.