2025 BMW X5 vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. It presented an upscale appearance, contrasting with the Grand Highlander's resemblance to a larger RAV4. The test model featured striking 22-inch wheels in a silver finish, part of the TX 350 Executive packages, which significantly enhanced the SUV's visual appeal and presence. The styling of the TX was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, resulting in a conservative design that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's bolder aesthetics.

In contrast, the 2025 BMW X5 evolved gracefully, maintaining the original X5's distinctive proportions while incorporating intriguing details. The fourth-generation model, facelifted for 2024, featured a cab-rearward profile, rounded fender arches, and arrow-shaped lighting elements in the headlights and taillights. The lower front fascia was somewhat busy, but the signature twin-kidney grille remained reasonably sized. The optional M Sport Package added sportier bumpers and a leather steering wheel, with further upgrades available in the M Sport Pro package. The interior continued the BMW aesthetic evolution, offering a sense of quality with a plainer appearance than some competitors.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claimed it could accelerate to 100 km/h in about eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to the torque swell. The official fuel economy rating was 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, but during testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm suspension providing road surface feedback while ensuring comfort. The steering was accurate, and the interior remained quiet on highways.

The 2025 BMW X5 offered multiple powertrain options. The X5 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine with 375 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque, achieving zero to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. The X5 M60i xDrive, with a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8, delivered 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, reaching 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. Both models shared an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The X5 xDrive50e plug-in hybrid combined the inline-six with a larger electric motor, producing 483 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, with an estimated 4.7-second zero to 100 km/h time and up to 63 km of all-electric range. The X5's chassis provided precision and agility, making it a pleasant driving experience.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 test unit featured premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada. The second-row seat, though not as welcoming, offered triple-zone climate control and USB charging ports for all rows. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, with stadium-style seating providing leg support and a good view. Cargo space measured 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row folded and 2,746 litres with the second row down.

The 2025 BMW X5, a two-row five-seater, offered generous passenger space but not class-leading. It had slightly less first-row legroom than some competitors but provided more headroom. The test car featured sport seats with extra bolstering, appreciated during cornering. The X5's cargo space measured 960 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 2,047 litres with the second row folded. The split tailgate was a standout feature, serving as a backstop and bench, with air suspension models offering easier access. The X5's towing capacity was 3,265 kilograms, competitive for its size.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a digital rearview mirror, with additional options in the Executive packages. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Drive Connect, a subscription service, added cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX also included Service Connect and Safety Connect subscriptions, with Remote Connect providing app-based access. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system delivered impressive sound quality.

The 2025 BMW X5 received a curved dashboard display and new operating system for 2024. The display combined a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, running BMW Operating System 8. The iDrive infotainment system remained intuitive, with multiple control options, including a rotary controller, touchscreen, voice recognition, and gesture control. Augmented reality navigation and digital key connectivity were notable features, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Lexus TX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was part of the system, offering braking and steering assistance. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways.

The 2025 BMW X5's standard safety features included lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package offered Highway Assistant, a hands-free system for speeds up to 135 km/h. The Parking Assistant setup included Reversing Assistant and optional Parking Assistant Professional features. The X5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.