2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, though the M Sport treatment was less favored, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, enhancing its look despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered various powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder, a turbo-six PHEV, and a turbocharged V8, with options for Sport and M Sport trims. The xDrive50e M Sport model, priced at $88,075, included Brooklyn Grey paint and comprehensive equipment packages. Updates for 2024 included a BMW Curved Display and modernized interior controls, while retaining high-quality materials.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, priced at $75,000, featured the RX 500h Black Line Special Edition with Incognito paint and orange brake calipers. Despite its bold grille and rear haunches, the RX remained visually unremarkable. The RX lineup included the RX 350h, RX 500h, and RX 450h+ models, each with distinct power and efficiency levels. The RX 500h, with 366 hp, was available in F Sport Performance and Black Line trims. The interior boasted quality materials and ambient lighting, though some controls were less intuitive. The RX avoided the single curved display trend, maintaining a unique cabin design.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured a new mild-hybrid system with a turbocharged six-cylinder engine, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. It offered 38 miles of electric-only range and 22 mpg in hybrid mode. The PHEV excelled in performance, reaching 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, just shy of the X5 M60i. The adaptive damping air suspension provided a smooth ride, and the vehicle handled well on various terrains. During testing, it achieved 38.8 mpg over 95.5 miles, showcasing its efficiency and dynamic capabilities.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three models: RX 350h, RX 450h+, and RX 500h. The RX 350h delivered 246 hp with a focus on efficiency, while the RX 450h+ PHEV offered 304 hp and a 6.2-second 0-60 mph time. The RX 500h, with 366 hp, featured a turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension. Despite its power, the RX 500h averaged only 20.9 mpg during testing. The Direct4 AWD system and performance brakes enhanced handling, but the RX 500h lacked dynamic communication, making it more about appearance and acceleration than driving satisfaction.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e provided ample space for five passengers and a cargo area expanding from 33.1 to 71.2 cubic feet. The split liftgate design offered convenience but required stretching to access deep cargo. The interior featured Sensafin artificial leather and optional 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation. Rear passengers enjoyed comfort with the Climate Comfort Package, and the panoramic sunroof added to the spacious feel. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, focusing on luxury and practicality.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid prioritized comfort and cargo space, with the RX 500h F Sport Performance model offering snug front seats and a panoramic sunroof. The rear seats were power-reclining, heated, and ventilated, providing ample space for adults. Interior storage was practical, though the rear armrest lacked lining. The RX Hybrid offered 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 46.2 cubic feet. The hands-free power liftgate and folding rear seats added convenience, though cargo space was limited for a midsize SUV.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The iDrive 8.5 system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a cloud-based navigation system. The Harman Kardon sound system was optional, but the Intelligent Personal Assistant had limitations, struggling with voice recognition. The head-up display provided useful data, though navigation accuracy was inconsistent.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 14-inch touchscreen with Lexus Interface. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a cloud-based navigation system. The Intelligent Assistant provided effective voice control, though steering wheel controls were distracting. The Mark Levinson audio system delivered excellent sound, but occasional glitches affected display information. The head-up display was helpful but less comprehensive than competitors.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced Highway Assistant for hands-free driving, effective in specific conditions but occasionally braking unexpectedly. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance worked well, though the system misinterpreted obstacles. The X5 received high safety ratings from IIHS but only four stars from NHTSA due to headlight performance.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid included Safety Connect and Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering comprehensive ADAS features. Predictive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist enhanced safety, though some functions were intrusive. The Convenience Package added a surround-view camera. The RX received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA, but IIHS rated it poorly in frontal-impact tests.