2025 Lexus GX vs 2026 BMW X5

The 2025 Lexus GX underwent a significant redesign, presenting a striking exterior that drew inspiration from classic Land Rover models. Its boxy shape, LED headlights, and a well-proportioned grille contributed to its robust appearance. The GX 550 Overtrail+ model, with its 33-inch tires and matte grey wheels, further emphasized its rugged appeal. Inside, the Lexus GX maintained a luxurious atmosphere with high-quality switchgear and chic design elements. The spacious interior offered ample headroom and comfortable seating, enhanced by features like a head-up display and NuLuxe faux leather upholstery. The elevated ride height and large windows ensured excellent visibility, making it a practical choice for both urban and off-road adventures.

In contrast, the 2026 BMW X5 retained design elements reminiscent of its original model, such as the wide kidney grilles and sculpted bodywork. The M60i variant featured a Manhattan Green paint job, 22-inch wheels, and a carbon fiber interior trim, exuding a sporty yet luxurious vibe. Inside, the X5 aimed for simplicity with its panoramic curved display and minimized controls, complemented by metallic accents and carbon fiber inlays. Despite the predominantly black interior, the X5 felt anything but monotonous, thanks to its ambient lighting and sophisticated materials. The quality of construction and attention to detail were evident, particularly at night when the cabin's lighting and panoramic sunroof created a special ambiance.

The 2025 Lexus GX was powered by a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 engine, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive, enabled the GX to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds. Despite its 5,666-pound curb weight, the GX felt agile and responsive, especially during highway merges. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an EPA rating of 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to features like a locking center differential and downhill assist control, making it a versatile choice for adventurous drivers.

The 2026 BMW X5 M60i, on the other hand, boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 532 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. This powerhouse enabled the X5 to reach 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds. The M60i's performance was further enhanced by its xDrive AWD system and Pirelli P Zero performance tires. However, its fuel efficiency was modest, with an EPA rating of 19 mpg. The X5's dynamic M Adaptive suspension provided a firm ride, while its M Sport brakes and performance tires ensured confident handling. Although not designed for off-roading, the X5 offered a maximum towing capacity of 7,200 pounds, catering to those with towing needs.

The 2025 Lexus GX offered a spacious interior, accommodating tall passengers with headroom ranging from 39 to 41 inches in the front and 43 inches in the rear. Legroom was generous, with 41 inches in the front and nearly 37 inches in the second row. The GX's cargo space was impressive, with up to 90.5 cubic feet available in the Overtrail trim. Despite its size, the GX was easy to maneuver and park, making it a practical choice for urban environments.

The 2026 BMW X5 accommodated five passengers in two rows, with comfortable front seats offering various adjustments. The rear seats provided adequate comfort, though taller passengers might find the seat cushions lacking in support. The X5's cargo space measured 33.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 72.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The split-opening power liftgate added convenience, though shorter individuals might struggle to reach items at the back. Overall, the X5 offered ample storage options and a well-designed interior.

The 2025 Lexus GX featured a user-friendly infotainment system with a 12.3-inch gauge cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Mark Levinson Premium Audio system provided good sound quality, though it required higher volume levels at highway speeds. The GX also included multiple USB-C ports for connectivity and charging.

The 2026 BMW X5's iDrive 8.5 infotainment system featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a range of connected services. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system delivered exceptional sound quality, though the number of menus on the infotainment screen could be overwhelming. The system's digital assistant worked well, except when using Apple CarPlay.

The 2025 Lexus GX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, road sign assist, and more. The GX's safety features were user-friendly and not overly intrusive. It also included a 360-degree camera system and trail-viewing cameras for enhanced visibility. However, the GX had not yet been rated by safety organizations.

The 2026 BMW X5 offered a range of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and active blind-spot monitors. The optional Driving Assistance Professional Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. The X5 received a four-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.