2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a sophisticated appearance, although the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, as it gave the vehicle a station wagon-like look. The test model 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 xDrive50e M Sport model tested came with Brooklyn Grey paint and every available equipment package, priced at $88,075, including destination charges. The 2024 updates included a light styling refresh and the addition of the BMW Curved Display, enhancing the interior's modernity while retaining high-quality materials and construction.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner was a nostalgic throwback, with its last redesign dating back to 2010. Despite minor refreshes, it retained a boxy shape that suited its all-terrain capabilities. The TRD Pro model featured flared fenders, a rugged grille, underbody skid plates, and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road persona. The interior, however, showed its age with outdated technology and styling, including an analog instrument panel and a small eight-inch infotainment touchscreen. The cabin had hard plastic surfaces, but cushioned panels provided some comfort. The 4Runner's design was reminiscent of the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, though it lacked some modern touches found in those models.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV boasted significant improvements, including a new mild-hybrid six-cylinder engine and a more powerful electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission. The lithium-ion battery pack had a capacity of 19.2 kWh, offering 38 miles of electric-only driving and a combined fuel economy of 22 mpg. The xDrive50e produced 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV model excelled in efficiency, achieving 33.7 mpg on a test drive and 38.8 mpg during an evaluation drive. The adaptive damping air suspension provided a smooth ride, and the vehicle's handling was impressive, especially in Sport mode. The X5 PHEV was praised for its driving dynamics and ability to recharge the battery during spirited driving.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner, powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, was paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. While its powertrain specs were comparable to the Bronco and Wrangler, the 4Runner's transmission limited its responsiveness and fuel economy. The TRD Pro model featured standard four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, making it capable off-road. However, on pavement, the 4Runner felt sluggish, with noticeable rear-end squat during acceleration. The engine noise was pronounced, and the sportier exhaust added to the auditory experience. The soft suspension resulted in body roll during cornering and a floaty ride over highway undulations. Despite these drawbacks, the 4Runner remained composed under hard braking and excelled in off-road conditions.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious and luxurious interior, accommodating five passengers in two rows. The cargo area provided 33.1 cubic feet of space, expandable to 71.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The split liftgate design allowed for convenient seating while accessing the cargo hold. The test vehicle featured Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, which was indistinguishable from genuine leather. The Climate Comfort Package added 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, four-zone automatic climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. While the X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, it excelled in comfort and practicality for families.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior, though outdated, was functional and easy to navigate. The cabin featured large climate-control dials and sturdy handles for off-road stability. The front seats provided ample space, but the steering wheel's limited telescoping range could be an issue for taller drivers. The second-row offered generous legroom, though headroom was limited for taller passengers. The 4Runner's cargo capacity was impressive, with 47.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 89.7 cubic feet with the seats stowed. The optional sliding deck reduced capacity but added convenience. The 4Runner's sliding glass rear window and party speakers in the hatch were unique features, enhancing its practicality for outdoor adventures.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with 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 inaccurate navigation suggestions. Despite this, the head-up display and augmented video function for navigation were praised. The Harman Kardon sound system provided excellent audio quality, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the small eight-inch touchscreen was challenging to use while driving. The TRD Pro model came with a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system, though road noise often overshadowed its quality. The headliner console housed additional terrain controls, including Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select, but their pictogram labels required consulting the owner's manual for full utilization. The 4Runner's technology was functional but lacked the sophistication and modernity of its competitors.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, which required deliberate activation. It performed well in dense traffic and at higher speeds but occasionally engaged brakes unexpectedly. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance were effective, though the system's sensitivity to obstacles could be improved. The X5 received high safety ratings from the IIHS, though lower headlight ratings prevented an award. The NHTSA awarded it four out of five stars for overall crash protection.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four stars from the NHTSA for overall and frontal crash protection, five stars for side impacts, and three stars for rollover evaluations. The IIHS gave it "Good" ratings for moderate frontal overlap and side protection tests but noted "Marginal" and "Poor" results in the small overlap frontal test. The 4Runner included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and a blind-spot monitor. The TRD Pro and Limited trims offered a surround-view camera system, though the Limited was the only model with parking sensors. The 4Runner's safety features were comprehensive but occasionally oversensitive.