2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, though 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 the high-performance X5 M Competition variant. The xDrive50e M Sport model tested came with Brooklyn Grey paint, optional wheels, and all available equipment packages, priced at $88,075. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh and introduced the BMW Curved Display, enhancing the interior with modern technology while retaining high-quality materials.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed for a rugged look, with aggressive styling and dual exhaust outlets hinting at performance. The TRD Off-Road model, tested in Army Green, topped the lineup with a base price of $38,295, reaching $41,925 with additional options. The RAV4's interior focused on practicality, featuring storage solutions and easy-clean surfaces. The TRD Off-Road model included SofTex artificial leather upholstery and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The RAV4 offered a range of trims, with prices starting at $28,675 for the LE and reaching $38,295 for the TRD Off-Road. The interior was utilitarian, with features like a full-width dashboard shelf and robust door handles, while higher trims offered more upscale options.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured significant upgrades, including a new electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission and a more energy-dense 19.2 kWh lithium-ion battery. The battery's maximum AC charging rate doubled to 7.4 kW, allowing for 38 miles of electric-only driving before the gasoline engine engaged, achieving 22 mpg in combined driving. The xDrive50e produced 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV model excelled in efficiency, averaging 33.7 mpg on a test drive and 38.8 mpg during an evaluation drive. The adaptive damping air suspension and 21-inch wheels provided a comfortable ride, while the quick steering and excellent visibility made it enjoyable to drive. The X5 PHEV was praised for its performance, especially in Sport mode, delivering excellent acceleration, grip, and handling.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The TRD Off-Road model included AWD, off-road suspension tuning, an underbody skid plate, and all-terrain tires. Multi-Terrain Select offered various driving modes, but the TRD Off-Road shared the same ground clearance as other RAV4 models. The RAV4's off-road capabilities were limited, as demonstrated by damage to the lower front fascia during testing. The off-road suspension provided a comfortable ride on daily commutes, absorbing bumps and imperfections. The RAV4's engine was powerful for its class but sounded loud and unrefined. The TRD Off-Road model achieved 26.6 mpg on a test route, compared to the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition's 37 mpg.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious and luxurious interior, accommodating five passengers in two rows. The cargo area provided 33.1 cubic feet of space, expanding to 71.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The split liftgate design offered a convenient seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The test vehicle featured Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, standard sport seats, and the Climate Comfort Package, which included 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed comfort and amenities like a panoramic sunroof and side window sunshades. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, requiring a step up to the BMW X7 for that feature.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 focused on practicality and utility, with a functional interior featuring storage shelves, trays, and rubberized control knobs. The TRD Off-Road model included SofTex artificial leather upholstery and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The optional Weather package added heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and rain-sensing wipers. The RAV4's driver seat was comfortable, with excellent outward visibility and an optional digital rearview mirror. The rear seat accommodated four adults comfortably, with good legroom and footroom. The cargo area offered 37.6 cubic feet of space, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded, competitive for the segment.

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. The system ran BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and over-the-air software updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, providing inaccurate directions and responses. The head-up display effectively conveyed data, and the optional Harman Kardon sound system delivered excellent audio quality. Despite the advanced technology, the reduction in physical controls and the assistant's performance were disappointing.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, with a standard 8-inch and available 10.5-inch touchscreen display. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and various connected services plans. Service Connect and Safety Connect were free for ten years, while Remote Connect and Drive Connect were complimentary for one year. The digital voice assistant performed well, except for volume issues and limited data parsing. The JBL premium audio system was available but not included in the test vehicle. The digital rearview mirror provided a clear view, but the lack of a panoramic surround-view camera was noted.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving assistance system, requiring deliberate activation. It performed well in dense or light traffic but struggled in moderate traffic, causing irritation. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance worked effectively, though occasional hard braking occurred. The X5's driver aids operated subtly, encouraging use. The IIHS gave the X5 high ratings, but lower headlight ratings prevented an award. The NHTSA rated it four stars overall.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, a comprehensive ADAS suite. The base LE trim lacked blind-spot monitoring, which was considered important. TSS 2.5 performed adequately, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist working better on straighter highways. The system managed traffic well but occasionally braked excessively. The RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to lower ratings in recent crash tests, highlighting the need for an updated design.