2020 Honda CR-V vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2020 Honda CR-V, a familiar face in the compact crossover segment, showcased a design that was both fun and approachable. Its exterior styling, reminiscent of Honda's sedan lineup, leaned more towards a station wagon than a traditional SUV, setting a standard for modern family transportation. However, the interior told a different story, with a mix of textures and materials that sometimes clashed. While higher trims boasted wood-look trim and leather upholstery, the presence of low-quality plastics reminded drivers of the CR-V's roots as a commodity car, even in its pricier versions.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's high-quality craftsmanship, unmistakably a part of the brand's SUV lineup. Its design, from the iconic kidney grille to the body shape, was quintessentially BMW, though it risked blending in with other models in a crowded parking lot. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice of matte or high-gloss finishes, depending on the trim. Inside, the X5 maintained a consistent BMW aesthetic, with an abundance of black plastic and leather, though the M Sport models added unique, aggressive styling elements.

The 2020 Honda CR-V was powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). This setup provided a smooth driving experience, with the CR-V feeling quick, especially in Sport mode. Its car-like road manners, nimble handling, and low curb weight contributed to its excellent fuel efficiency, with FWD models rated at 7.7 litres per 100 kilometres combined and AWD models at 8.1.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model featured a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The M50i variant boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 with 523 hp, while the X5 M reached 600 hp, or 617 hp with the Competition Package. The new xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model combined a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine with a 24-kilowatt-hour battery, achieving 389 hp and offering up to 50 kilometres of all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering dynamics were less engaging than expected, with issues at both low and high speeds.

The 2020 Honda CR-V excelled in interior space and practicality, offering a roomy cabin comparable to the Volkswagen Tiguan. Its clever packaging included a deep centre console and a two-position load floor, providing up to 1,110 litres of cargo space. The CR-V's seating position and visibility were excellent, and its door pockets were notably spacious, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 BMW X5 also made good use of space, with comfortable seating and a well-organized interior. However, the front seats could feel hard on longer trips. The X5's split liftgate and vehicle height adjustment made loading cargo easier, though the doors did not open very wide, complicating access to the rear seats. The optional third row was not tested, but the cargo area was spacious without it.

The 2020 Honda CR-V's infotainment system showed its age, with a standard 7-inch touchscreen that felt small compared to competitors. The system lacked hard buttons, making it challenging to operate, though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. The CR-V offered plenty of USB ports and a wireless phone charger on higher trims.

The 2021 BMW X5 featured a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and various connectivity options. Buyers could upgrade to a head-up display, premium audio systems, and more. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2020 Honda CR-V came standard with the "Honda Sensing" suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, though lower trims had less effective headlights.

The 2021 BMW X5 included a comprehensive list of safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control, particularly in bright sunlight or rain. The X5 received mostly Good ratings from the IIHS but had seven recalls and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.