2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing both its interior and exterior. These updates were more than just minor tweaks, as the styling changes allowed the RX to stand out in a competitive market. Despite its age, the RX maintained a stylish edge over its Toyota counterparts. The exterior updates included standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlamps. The grille was redesigned to resemble other Lexus models, and a new paint option, Moonbeam Beige Metallic, was introduced. The rear of the vehicle featured a new shape with dual exhausts, a rear diffuser, and updated reflectors, along with an available hands-free tailgate.

Inside, the RX continued to offer a well-appointed cabin with standard heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated exterior mirrors. Various interior colour and material combinations were available, with leather seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel as standard. The F Sport appearance packages added unique features like a distinctive steering wheel, shift knob, aluminum pedals, and 20-inch wheels. The interior maintained a premium feel with leather-wrapped surfaces, while the centre stack, though functional, appeared dated compared to industry trends.

The 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's reputation for high-quality craftsmanship. As part of BMW's true SUV range, the X5 was unmistakably a BMW, with its signature kidney grille and body shape. While this consistency was reassuring, it also meant the X5 could blend in with other BMWs in a crowded parking lot. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights, with standard xLine models showcasing matte aluminum grilles and satin aluminum finishes for an upscale appearance. M Sport models had body-colour matched trim and high-gloss black accents for a sportier look. Depending on the trim, the X5 could ride on 20-, 21-, or 22-inch wheels.

Inside, the X5's interior design was consistent with other BMW models, utilizing parts from the BMW parts bin. While there was an abundance of black plastic, the interior still featured plenty of leather and soft-touch materials. M Sport models offered unique styling elements, including an M sports steering wheel, M-specific pedals, and exclusive interior trim strips. Despite the sameness, the interior was not shoddy, and the cabin remained quiet, with the suspension effectively absorbing road imperfections.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. The RX 350 L variant had slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. The RX 450h L shared the same setup, with a 37-kilowatt-hour battery pack and an electronically controlled CVT. The hybrid models featured motors for both front and rear wheels, adding 67 horsepower to the car. The RX was not particularly athletic, taking 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph, but it offered a smooth driving experience with standard AWD and adaptive variable suspension on F Sport models. Fuel efficiency was a strong suit, with the RX 350 achieving 10.8 L/100 km combined, while the RX 450h used 7.9 L/100 km combined.

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, producing 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 with 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, while the X5 M delivered 600 horsepower, increasing to 617 with the Competition Package. The new xDrive45e plug-in hybrid achieved 389 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque, with a 24-kilowatt-hour battery providing up to 50 kilometres of all-electric range. The X5's driving dynamics were less engaging than expected, with steering issues at higher speeds and a lack of the connected drive experience typical of BMWs. Fuel efficiency varied, with the xDrive45e rated at 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres when using both electricity and gas.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior was not as minimalist or stylish as its German competitors, but it was functional. The two-row RX comfortably accommodated four adults, while the three-row RX-L's third row was best suited for small children or pets. The cabin was spacious in its two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and good visibility, though the A-pillar could impede the driver's view. The cargo area was smaller than rivals, with a high load floor limiting space. The RX 350 L and 450h L also had less cargo space compared to competitors, but a hands-free liftgate was available on certain models.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with cupholders conveniently placed at the front of the centre console. The centre console featured numerous controls, which could be challenging to differentiate at night. The wireless phone charging pad kept technology out of sight. Seating was comfortable for short trips, though the front seats could feel hard after extended periods. The rear seats were spacious, and an optional third row was available. The X5's split liftgate was easy to operate, with a vehicle height adjustment button for loading cargo. The cargo area was spacious without the third row, though the xDrive45e offered slightly less space.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was often criticized, but improvements were made for 2020, including moving the display closer to the driver. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was difficult to navigate, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity provided a solution. The RX also offered Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and other app compatibility. The physical controls were improved, and the RX featured six USB ports. The standard 12-speaker audio system was adequate, with a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

The 2021 BMW X5 came with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay, though connectivity issues could arise. The standard features included wireless Android Auto, a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and more. Buyers could upgrade with options like a head-up display, quad-zone climate control, and premium audio systems. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and more. The RX also included daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, and lane-tracing assist. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a comprehensive list of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, some systems, like the Driving Assistance Professional Package, had issues with responsiveness and lane-keeping. The X5 received good ratings from the IIHS but had a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.