2021 BMW X5 vs 2022 Lexus RX

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 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 larger wheels, enhancing its athletic appearance. 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 overuse of black plastic. The M Sport models offered unique styling elements, including an M sports steering wheel and exclusive interior trim.

The 2022 Lexus RX continued to impress with its modern and sporty design, following a facelift in 2020. It was available in various trims, including the RX 350 and the hybrid RX 450h, with both standard and long-wheelbase options. The RX's exterior was characterized by sharp character lines and angular features, creating an eye-catching design. The F Sport models added a performance-oriented look with larger wheels, unique front fascia, and sporty accents. Inside, the RX maintained its luxury appeal, with F Sport models adding sporty touches like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, the centre stack felt dated, and the seats, particularly in the F Sport, were criticized for their lack of comfort and adjustability.

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 M50i variant boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M delivered up to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The 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, with an all-electric range of up to 50 kilometres. Despite its power, the X5's steering and handling were criticized for lacking the engaging drive experience expected from BMW. Fuel efficiency varied, with the xDrive45e rated at 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres when using electricity and gas.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The RX 450h hybrid added electric motors for a combined output of 308 hp. All models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of engine growl and unimpressive acceleration. The F Sport models included adaptive variable suspension and additional drive modes, but the differences in driving dynamics were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, making it a pleasant companion for long drives. Fuel efficiency for the RX 350 was rated at 10.8 L/100 km combined, while the RX 450h hybrid achieved 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The seating was spacious and comfortable for short trips, though the front seats could feel hard after extended periods. The rear seats were suitable for two adults, and an optional third row was available. The X5's split liftgate and power functionality made loading cargo easy, with ample space in the cargo area. However, the doors did not open very wide, making it challenging to move children and cargo in and out of the second row.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, comfortably accommodating four adults. The three-row L models had limited space for anything beyond groceries. Cargo space varied, with 453 litres behind the second row in the standard RX and up to 1,657 litres with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder. However, the rear seats did not fold completely flat, and the load-in height was high due to the sporty bumper design.

The 2021 BMW X5 came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The iDrive system required some acclimatization but was user-friendly once familiar. Additional features included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and various optional upgrades like a head-up display and premium audio systems.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch version available. The touchscreen's positioning was ergonomically challenging, and the touchpad was hypersensitive and unintuitive. Despite these issues, the RX offered a range of tech features, including Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and premium audio systems. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity and personalization options.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, 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 high safety ratings from the IIHS but had a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Lexus RX came standard with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a pre-collision system. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The RX was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, though it missed the "plus" designation due to its headlights. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall rating.