2023 Lexus RX vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2023 Lexus RX, built in Canada, marked its fifth generation with a design that was shorter in height but broader and longer in wheelbase compared to its predecessor. Despite maintaining the same overall length, it offered more cargo space than the 2022 model, though still less than its competitors. The RX appeared smaller due to reduced rear overhang and softer design lines, with a floating roof effect contributing to a stubby look. The front featured a spindle-style grille integrated into the design, with a modern mesh texture and elevated hood. The rear showcased a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper, maintaining a familiar yet fresh Lexus identity.

Inside, the RX boasted a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. The quality was high, with options for genuine leather and simulated suede. The RX 350, RX 350h, and RX 500h were available, with Canadian pricing starting at $58,650. The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid was anticipated but not immediately available.

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, retained a well-aged styling, though the M Sport treatment was less favoured. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch wheels, enhancing its appearance. The X5 offered various powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder, a PHEV, and a turbo V8. The xDrive50e PHEV model, with a Brooklyn Grey paint and comprehensive equipment packages, was highlighted. The interior received a refresh with BMW Curved Display, reducing physical controls while maintaining high material quality.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered better torque and fuel economy than the previous V6 but lacked its smoothness. The RX 350 Executive trim showed occasional torque steer and excess body motion, while the F Sport 3 trim felt more secure with its adaptive suspension. Both trims had 21-inch wheels, but the F Sport 3's suspension improved ride quality. The RX 350 AWD accelerated to 100 km/h in about 7.3 seconds, with fuel economy estimates at 9.9 L/100 km, though real-world results were slightly higher.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV boasted a new electric motor and battery, offering 63 km of electric-only range and a combined fuel economy of 10.6 L/100 km. It produced 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 96 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV excelled in electric driving, with a Level 2 home charging station recommended for optimal use. The adaptive damping air suspension masked its weight, and the X5 delivered excellent handling and braking performance. During testing, it achieved an average fuel economy of 6.0 L/100 km over 154 km.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 offered comfort with sport seat bolsters in the F Sport 3 package. The Executive trim featured premium leather upholstery, ten-way power-adjustable seats, and a heated steering wheel. The F Sport 3 had simulated leather seats and eight-way power-adjustable front seats. Both trims provided good leg support and legroom, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. Cargo space improved to 838 litres with seats up and 1,308 litres with seats down.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e accommodated five people with a 937-litre cargo area, expanding to 2,016 litres with seats folded. The split liftgate design offered convenience but required stretching to access deep cargo. Standard sport seats and optional 20-way power-adjustable seats with heating and ventilation enhanced comfort. Rear passengers enjoyed supportive cushions and a panoramic sunroof. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, requiring a step up to the X7 for that feature.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the Lexus Interface multimedia system with a choice of touchscreen displays. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services. Drive Connect offered natural voice recognition, though it occasionally misinterpreted commands. User profiles and streaming services were available, but the system lacked multi-panel viewing. The Mark Levinson sound system required tone adjustments for optimal performance. Digital instrumentation, Digital Latch door handles, and a head-up display were standard, with some visibility issues under certain conditions.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital panel and 14.9-inch touchscreen. The iDrive 8.5 system offered wireless connectivity, SiriusXM, and over-the-air updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant struggled with voice recognition, affecting navigation and media requests. The head-up display effectively conveyed data, and an augmented video function enhanced navigation. However, the assistant's performance was disappointing, impacting the reduced physical controls' effectiveness.

The 2023 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and blind spot monitoring. New features included motorcycle detection and evasive steering assistance. Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist offered semi-autonomous capabilities, though the driver monitoring system required attention. Advanced Park Assist was available but slow. The system had some issues with HUD visibility and curve-speed reduction technology.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced Highway Assistant for hands-free driving, effective in specific conditions but occasionally causing irritation. Adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance performed well, though errant braking occurred. The X5's driver aids operated subtly, encouraging use. The IIHS rated the X5 highly, but lower headlight ratings prevented an award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.