2022 Lexus GX vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's renowned craftsmanship, fitting seamlessly into the brand's SUV lineup. Its design was unmistakably BMW, from the iconic kidney grille to its overall body shape, ensuring it stood out as a luxury SUV. However, this familiarity also meant it could blend in with other BMW models in a crowded parking lot. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice of matte aluminum or high-gloss black finishes, depending on the trim. The M Sport models added a sporty flair with body-coloured trims and unique styling elements. Inside, the X5's interior was consistent with BMW's design language, featuring a mix of leather and soft-touch materials, though it was criticized for its abundance of black plastic. The M Sport models offered additional aggressive styling cues, including an M sports steering wheel and exclusive interior trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX maintained a design reminiscent of its first-generation model, with the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights being the most notable updates. Despite its dated exterior, the interior quality was exceptional, showcasing Lexus's legendary refinement and quietness. The GX was available in Standard, Premium, and Executive trims, with prices ranging from $72,100 to $83,750, excluding destination charges. The Black Line Special Edition, based on the GX 460 Premium, added unique styling elements. The cabin was crafted with care, offering a smooth and refined experience, though some controls were considered old-school. The GX's interior was comfortable, with heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and triple-zone automatic climate control. However, accessing the rear seats was challenging due to narrow door openings, and the third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space.

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, with all-wheel drive as standard. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M reached 600 hp, increasing to 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 443 lb-ft of torque, and offering up to 50 kilometres of all-electric range. The X5's driving dynamics were criticized for being less engaging than expected, with steering issues at higher speeds. The xDrive45e's battery weight did not affect ride quality, and charging was convenient, with a five-hour charge time on a Level 2 charger. Fuel efficiency varied, with the X5 M being the least efficient at 15.7 L/100 km combined, while the xDrive45e achieved 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres when using both electricity and gas.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a 4.6-litre V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system. The GX's performance was characterized by a satisfying engine note and a leisurely 7.8-second run to 60 mph. Its maximum towing capacity was 2,948 kilograms. The GX's drag coefficient of 0.35, combined with its weight and 4WD system, resulted in a fuel consumption estimate of 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) improved ride quality and off-road capability, while the GX's handling was stable but hampered by slow steering and a touchy brake pedal. The Premium Package added off-road features like Multi-Terrain Select and Panoramic View monitoring cameras.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The centre console's controls were difficult to differentiate at night, but climate controls were easily accessible. Seating was comfortable for short trips, though the front seats became hard after extended periods. The rear seats accommodated two adults comfortably, 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. Without the third row, the cargo area was spacious, though the xDrive45e offered slightly less space. The rear doors did not open wide, making it challenging to move children and cargo.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear visibility. Its tall, narrow design made it easy to maneuver, though the steering required extra effort. The interior featured comfortable seats and physical controls, though some knobs were confusingly placed. The Black Line Special Edition added NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim. The rear seats were spacious, but access was difficult due to narrow door openings. The third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space, with a high load floor making loading challenging. The GX's side-opening tailgate was cumbersome, especially in tight spaces, and lacked power operation. Cargo space was limited, with 328 litres behind the third row and 1,833 litres with all seats folded.

The 2021 BMW X5 came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system had connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay, often taking over music operations unexpectedly. Other standard features included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, voice recognition, Bluetooth, five USB ports, navigation, HD Radio, satellite radio, automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and remote start. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, quad-zone climate control, a wireless charger, ventilated and massaging seats, a Wi-Fi hotspot, premium audio systems, rear sunshades, and a dual-panel panoramic roof. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, navigation, and a CD player. The Lexus app offered smartwatch compatibility and connected services, including a WiFi hotspot. The stereo controls were awkwardly placed below off-roading controls, making them difficult to use. The infotainment display allowed for a dual-screen view, and voice recognition was quick and accurate. The GX's Intuitive Parking Assist technology was standard, with optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver assistance features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems, particularly in bright sunlight and rain. The X5 received nearly all Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, despite being subject to seven recalls.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings due to its age but featured the Lexus Safety System+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. The GX did not offer some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, but its lack of intrusive driving aids contributed to a positive driving experience.