2019 Honda CR-V vs 2019 BMW X5

The 2019 BMW X5 was designed with a focus on delivering a sedan-like driving experience, despite its substantial 2,250-kilogram weight and tall stature. BMW's approach was to prioritize on-road comfort over off-road capabilities, a decision that initially drew criticism but ultimately aligned with consumer preferences for smooth pavement rides. The X5 offered a five-passenger layout, expandable to seven, though the third row was notably cramped. It featured two turbocharged engine options: a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder and a 4.4-litre V8, both paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model came with a host of features, including adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a digital gauge cluster, with numerous optional upgrades available.

In contrast, the 2019 Honda CR-V was available in four trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring, with prices ranging from $27,690 to $39,090. The CR-V's design was generally appealing, though its front styling was less popular. Inside, the CR-V boasted quality materials and a well-organized layout, with a two-tone tan-over-black interior in the test vehicle. Despite some hard plastics, the interior did not feel cheap. The CR-V offered ample space for passengers and cargo, with a large glove box, centre console bin, and a generous cargo area that could accommodate four full-size suitcases and a compact stroller. The rear seats could be folded down to expand the cargo space further.

The 2019 BMW X5 xDrive40i was powered by a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided smooth and consistent power, especially in Sport mode, and was paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission that offered seamless shifts. The xDrive50i variant featured a twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8, producing 456 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to reach 100 km/h in approximately 4.7 seconds. The X5's fuel economy was rated at 11.7 L/100 km in the city, 9.1 on the highway, and 10.5 combined. Built on BMW's Cluster Architecture platform, the X5 featured a double-A-arm front and multi-link rear suspension with adaptive dampers, and an optional air suspension that allowed for adjustable ride height and improved bump absorption.

The 2019 Honda CR-V, available in Canada with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, produced 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a CVT, the engine offered responsive acceleration and better fuel economy, though some issues were reported in cold weather. The CR-V's Real Time AWD system operated in FWD until wheel slip was detected, providing up to 40% power to the rear wheels. The CR-V's driving dynamics were supported by a MacPherson strut front and multi-link double wishbone rear suspension, with 235/60 tires on 18-inch alloy wheels. The electric steering was light and effortless at low speeds, gaining heft as speed increased, and the braking system performed well even under load.

Inside the 2019 BMW X5, the design featured aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens for the updated iDrive infotainment system. While the design was modern, some materials felt less premium compared to competitors. The seats were somewhat uncomfortable, with limited adjustability and ventilation, but space was ample in the front and second rows. The X5 offered 960 litres of trunk space, expandable to 2,047 litres with the seats down, and a split rear tailgate with air suspension for easier loading. The X5 could tow up to 3,000 kilograms when properly equipped.

The 2019 Honda CR-V provided a comfortable driving experience, though the front passenger seat lacked a height adjuster. The driver enjoyed a 12-way power adjustable seat, with heated front seats standard in Canada. The rear seats offered plenty of space for passengers, with air vents and USB ports to keep them comfortable. The CR-V's cargo area provided 1,110 litres of space behind the back seat, expandable to 2,146 litres with the rear seats folded down. The CR-V's storage solutions included a large glove box and centre console bin, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology offerings were somewhat disappointing. Gesture control was unreliable, and the customizable screens and voice controls were less intuitive than competitors. The iDrive interface required time to learn, and the steering wheel controls were counterintuitive. The driving-assistance features, offering Level 2 autonomy, were not very effective at high speeds, with issues like lane wandering and overcorrection. However, the adaptive cruise control and stop-and-start traffic feature worked well. Optional features included Parking Assistant Plus, a night-vision system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Harman Kardon stereo provided excellent sound, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins system available.

The 2019 Honda CR-V featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and HondaLink services. The system included a power/volume knob but lacked a tuning knob and menu shortcut buttons. Voice activation required specific prompts and was often inaccurate. The CR-V's infotainment system was somewhat distracting, with occasional issues like unresponsive virtual buttons. The Touring trim offered a premium audio system and navigation, while the EX-L trim included SiriusXM satellite radio.

The 2019 BMW X5 featured a new brake-by-wire setup, providing a nearly natural feel with some unfamiliar feedback during braking. It received a four-star rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash tests. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+, awarding top scores in all tests.

The 2019 Honda CR-V included Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features, on all trims except the base LX FWD. This suite included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The CR-V was a Top Safety Pick according to the IIHS, with a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA.