BMW X5 vs Lexus TX

The 2025 BMW X5 had gracefully evolved, maintaining its distinctive proportions while incorporating intriguing details. The cab-rearward profile and rounded fender arches were complemented by arrow-shaped lighting elements in the headlights and taillights, which featured a three-dimensional shape. The front fascia was somewhat busy, but the twin-kidney grille remained reasonably sized. The optional M Sport Package added sportier bumpers and darkened trim, with further upgrades available. The Silver Anniversary Edition celebrated the X5's 25th anniversary with unique trim and paint options, showcasing the array of customization possibilities. Inside, the X5's interior evolved gradually, retaining a sense of quality with a plainer appearance compared to some competitors. The Silver Anniversary Edition featured carbon fiber trim and illuminated graphics, enhancing the overall aesthetic.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of trim levels, with the 550h+ plug-in hybrid standing out with its standard panoramic glass roof and Matador Red Mica paint. The large grille retained the spindle shape, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting. The interior featured multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and a spacious third row with recline function and USB-C ports. However, material quality fell short of luxury standards, with basic plastics present. The redesigned door handles were a unique touch, but some might have preferred more attention to cabin details. Overall, the TX provided a comfortable and spacious interior, with ample cargo space and towing capacity.

The 2025 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, starting with the RWD sDrive40i and AWD xDrive40i, both powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six producing 375 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds. The AWD-only X5 M60i xDrive featured a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds. Both models shared an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The X5 plug-in hybrid, xDrive50e, combined the inline-six with a larger electric motor, delivering a total output of 483 hp and 516 lb-ft, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds and up to 39 miles of all-electric range. The Silver Anniversary Edition included the xOffroad Package, enhancing off-road capabilities, though it compromised on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid generated 404 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system. The onboard seven-kilowatt charger allowed for a full battery charge in under three hours. The TX offered various drive modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom, with Sport mode providing increased throttle sensitivity. The 550h+ delivered a quiet and smooth ride, with seamless transitions between gas and electric power. The AWD system could distribute power between the front and rear wheels, with a Trail Mode for improved traction. The TX provided a comfortable driving experience, ideal for long road trips.

The 2025 BMW X5 was a two-row, five-seater SUV with generous passenger space, though not class-leading. It offered slightly less first-row legroom compared to some competitors but provided more headroom. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, though the lack of real leather upholstery and front-seat ventilation was noticeable at the X5's price point. The X5 offered 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 72.3 cubic feet with the second row folded. The split tailgate was a unique feature, providing convenience for loading and unloading. The X5's towing capacity was 7,200 pounds, competitive for its class.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ featured standard luxury amenities, including multi-zone climate control and heated and cooled seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and USB-C ports. The second row offered captain's chairs with a removable center console, though folding the seats flat was cumbersome. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. The TX provided excellent cargo space, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with all seats folded. The TX's towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, suitable for most needs.

The 2025 BMW X5 featured a curved dashboard display with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, running BMW Operating System 8. The iDrive infotainment system was intuitive, offering multiple control options, including a rotary controller, touchscreen, voice recognition, and gesture control. The instrument cluster layout was distinctive and easy to read. Augmented reality navigation and digital key connectivity were welcome additions, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2026 Lexus TX's tech was a mixed bag. The 14-inch touchscreen was responsive, but some features lacked polish, such as the inability to manually input satellite radio stations. Steering wheel controls were multifunctional but confusing. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occurred. The backup camera and Advanced Park system were useful features, and the rear-camera mirror provided an unobstructed view. The TX offered ample charging options, with seven USB ports and wireless charging.

The 2025 BMW X5 came with standard Active Driving Assistant features, including lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and forward collision warning. The optional Driving Assistance Professional Package added Highway Assistant, a hands-free system for speeds up to 85 mph. The Parking Assistant setup included Reversing Assistant, with an optional Parking Assistance Professional Package offering additional features. The X5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2026 Lexus TX included Safety System+ 3.0 as standard, featuring forward collision warning, Lane Tracing Assist, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, and Proactive Driving Assist. The adaptive cruise control worked well once set up, though the steering wheel controls were confusing. The NHTSA hadn't released safety ratings for the 550h+, but the TX 350 and 500h earned five stars. The IIHS gave the TX an "Acceptable" score in the small overlap front crash test on the driver's side and a "Good" score for the passenger's side.