BMW X5 vs Toyota bZ

The 2026 BMW X5 was a blend of classic design elements and modern luxury. The lineup included both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models, with prices ranging from $69,750 to $132,450. Our test vehicle, the X5 M60i, was priced at $109,200 and featured a striking Manhattan Green paint, 22-inch wheels, and a luxurious interior with Merino leather and carbon fiber trim. The exterior design paid homage to the original X5 with its wide kidney grilles and sculpted bodywork, while the interior boasted a panoramic curved display and high-quality materials. The ambient lighting and Bowers & Wilkins audio system added to the vehicle's premium feel, making it a standout in its class.

In contrast, the 2026 Toyota bZ offered a more budget-friendly option with prices between $36,495 and $46,895. Our XLE test vehicle, equipped with front-wheel drive and an optional larger battery, was priced at $40,468. The bZ's design was improved over previous models, with body-color trim enhancing its appeal. Inside, the dashboard and center console were redesigned for a cleaner look, and the 14-inch touchscreen integrated climate controls. However, the digital driver display was criticized for its placement and readability. Despite these drawbacks, the bZ provided a comfortable and practical interior with ample storage and standard features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2026 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrains, including six-cylinder and eight-cylinder options. Our M60i test car featured a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivering 532 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds, thanks to its xDrive AWD and performance tires. However, fuel efficiency was a concern, with an EPA rating of 19 mpg and observed figures between 16.4 mpg and 21.1 mpg. The X5's dynamic M Adaptive suspension provided a firm ride, and while it wasn't suited for off-roading, it boasted a towing capacity of 7,200 pounds.

The 2026 Toyota bZ, on the other hand, offered a more eco-friendly performance with its electric powertrain. The XLE FWD model came with a single electric motor and a 57.7-kWh battery, producing 165 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque. It had an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles and an efficiency rating of 26 kWh/100 miles. The optional 74.7-kWh battery increased power to 224 hp and extended the range to 314 miles. Dual-motor models offered 338 hp and varying ranges. The bZ's regenerative braking system and compatibility with Tesla Superchargers added to its appeal, though its handling on winding roads was less impressive.

The 2026 BMW X5 accommodated five passengers in two rows, with the M60i model offering highly adjustable front seats and a heated steering wheel. The interior was spacious, with four-zone climate control and heated rear seats. Storage was ample, with hidden compartments and a split-opening power liftgate providing 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 72.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2026 Toyota bZ, built on an EV platform, offered easy access and comfortable seating with eight-way power adjustment for the front seats. The interior lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with various storage solutions, including a large bin under the center armrest. Rear passengers enjoyed ample legroom, though foot space was limited. The bZ provided 27.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 56.9 cubic feet with the rear seats down.

The 2026 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The iDrive 8.5 infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a conversational digital assistant. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system delivered exceptional sound quality, though the infotainment menus could be overwhelming.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came with a 7-inch digital driver display and a 14-inch touchscreen running the Toyota Audio Multimedia system. While the infotainment system was generally user-friendly, it lacked a home screen for simultaneous data display and had readability issues in daytime mode. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with several connected service plans available. The Intelligent Assistant voice command system worked well, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2026 BMW X5 offered a range of standard safety features, including high-beam assist, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The optional Driving Assistance Professional Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and hands-free driving. The X5 received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which included features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. The Limited trim added Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park Assist. However, the bZ's safety ratings were mixed, with the IIHS giving it an Acceptable rating for frontal-impact crash tests and a Poor rating for headlights.