2024 Lexus TX vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, although the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, and a turbocharged V8 engine, with the high-performance X5 M Competition variant. The interior received a modern touch with the BMW Curved Display and reduced physical switchgear, yet retained the quality materials and construction reminiscent of classic BMWs.

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, distinguished itself as a luxury SUV with upscale styling and 22-inch wheels that enhanced its presence. The TX's design was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a subtler look. Available in TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, the TX 350 was expected to be the most popular. It featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with standard AWD, and the Ultra Luxury package added premium interior touches. The TX's interior was luxurious, though the dark Peppercorn colour scheme felt too sombre, even with the panoramic sunroof.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV boasted significant enhancements, including a new electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission and a more energy-dense 19.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This allowed for 63 kilometres of electric-only driving, with a combined fuel efficiency of 10.6 L/100 km. The xDrive50e delivered 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 96 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV's adaptive damping air suspension masked its weight effectively, providing a smooth ride despite the large 21-inch wheels. The X5 excelled in both city and highway driving, with an average fuel economy of 6.0 L/100 km during testing.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, with an acceleration time of approximately eight seconds to 100 km/h. The TX 350's official fuel economy rating was 10.3 L/100 km, though testing showed an average of 13.8 L/100 km. The suspension offered a balance between road feel and comfort, with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on the highway, though the brake pedal felt soft. Overall, the TX 350's performance was adequate for typical driving situations.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e provided ample space for five passengers and a cargo area of 937 litres, expandable to 2,016 litres with the rear seats folded. The split liftgate design offered a convenient seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The interior featured standard Sensafin artificial leather, with optional 20-way power-adjustable front seats and a panoramic sunroof. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed comfort and a great view, though a third-row seat was no longer available.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs, offering a comfortable and spacious interior. The TX 350 test unit included premium leather and suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated seats. The second-row bench seat was standard, with optional captain's chairs available. The third-row seat accommodated adults comfortably, with ample leg support and large windows. Cargo space measured 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,746 litres with all seats folded. The TX featured numerous storage options, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system ran on BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and over-the-air updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, leading to frustration. The head-up display and augmented video navigation were highlights, though accurate directions were sometimes elusive.

The 2024 Lexus TX included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display. The Lexus Interface infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a Drive Connect subscription providing cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The head-up display, however, was problematic with polarized sunglasses, and the unmarked steering wheel controls were distracting. The TX offered free subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, with Remote Connect available for three years. The optional Mark Levinson audio system delivered impressive sound quality.

The 2024 BMW X5 offered the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, effective in light traffic but occasionally engaging brakes unexpectedly. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance performed well, though hard braking occurred when encountering obstacles. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS, though lower headlight ratings prevented an award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall crash-test rating.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist provided braking and steering assistance, though it was not always smooth. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The traffic jam assist system worked well at low speeds, though a higher-speed hands-free system was not available. The LSS+ 3.0 generally performed smoothly, though the TX slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.