2025 BMW X5 vs 2025 Lexus GX

The 2025 BMW X5 had gracefully evolved from its predecessors, maintaining its distinctive proportions while incorporating intriguing new details. The cab-rearward profile and rounded fender arches were complemented by arrow-shaped lighting elements in the headlights and taillights, which added a three-dimensional flair. The front fascia was somewhat busy, but the twin-kidney grille remained reasonably sized, avoiding the puzzling trim seen on other models. The optional M Sport Package enhanced the sporty appearance with darkened Shadowline trim and sportier bumpers, while the Silver Anniversary Edition celebrated the X5's 25th anniversary with unique Lime Rock Grey paint and off-road features.

Inside, the X5's interior continued the BMW tradition of gradual evolution, offering a sense of quality with a plainer appearance compared to some competitors. The curved dashboard display was a nod to modernity, yet the interior retained connections to previous generations. The Silver Anniversary Edition featured carbon fiber trim and illuminated "X5" graphics, adding a touch of sophistication. Overall, the X5's interior was a blend of tradition and modernity, providing a comfortable and familiar environment for drivers and passengers alike.

The 2025 Lexus GX underwent a complete redesign, presenting a strikingly different appearance from its predecessor. The new model exuded a boxy, old-school Land Rover vibe, with a brawny facial expression accentuated by LED headlights and a large grille. The geometric design was complemented by 33-inch tires on matte grey 18-inch wheels, rock rails, and a fitting Earth color. Inside, the GX offered a clean and elegant design with a luxurious feel. The dashboard, center console, and door trim were chic, and the switchgear had a quality feel. The seats, upholstered in stitched black and tan faux leather, provided ample headroom and comfort, with heating, ventilation, and massaging functions.

The GX's interior was spacious, with excellent visibility and a head-up display for added convenience. The overall design was both functional and luxurious, making it a comfortable and stylish choice for drivers and passengers. The GX's redesign brought a fresh and appealing look, combining modern luxury with a nod to classic SUV design.

The 2025 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, starting with the RWD X5 sDrive40i and AWD X5 xDrive40i, both powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 375 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. This allowed the X5 to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. The AWD-only X5 M60i xDrive featured a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, achieving a zero to 60 mph time of 4.2 seconds. Both models shared an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The X5 plug-in hybrid, the xDrive50e, combined the inline-six engine with a larger electric motor, delivering a total system output of 483 hp and 516 lb-ft, with an estimated zero to 60 mph time of 4.6 seconds and up to 39 miles of all-electric range.

The Silver Anniversary Edition of the X5 was mechanically identical to the xDrive40i, offering smooth power delivery and agile handling. The xOffroad Package, standard on this edition, included air suspension, a locking M Sport rear differential, and off-road features. However, the all-terrain tires were noisy and affected handling. Despite its off-road capabilities, the X5 excelled in on-road driving dynamics, making it a versatile choice for drivers seeking both performance and comfort.

The 2025 Lexus GX was equipped with a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 engine, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This power was delivered to all four wheels via a full-time 4WD system with a limited-slip center differential and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The GX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, a second faster than its V8-powered predecessor. The GX's performance was robust, with ample power throughout the rev range, making highway merges effortless. However, the transmission was occasionally slow to react.

The GX's fuel economy was rated at 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined, with our testing achieving 14.9 mpg. Despite this, the GX offered excellent around-town manners and impressive off-road capabilities. The adaptive dampers and suspension system provided a comfortable ride, while the body-on-frame construction allowed for off-road prowess. The Overtrail+ trim excelled in off-road environments, with features like a locking center differential and downhill assist control, making it a formidable choice for adventure enthusiasts.

The 2025 BMW X5 was a two-row, five-seater SUV, offering generous passenger space but not class-leading. It had slightly less first-row legroom compared to competitors like the Acura MDX and Audi Q7, but provided more headroom. The sport seats in our test car offered extra bolstering for cornering, though the lack of real leather upholstery and front-seat ventilation was noticeable given the X5's price. The X5 offered 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 72.3 cubic feet with the second row folded. The split tailgate was a unique feature, providing convenience for loading and unloading cargo. The X5's towing capacity was 7,200 pounds, competitive for its class.

The 2025 Lexus GX offered a spacious interior, accommodating tall passengers with headroom ranging from 39 to 41 inches in the front and 43 inches in the back. Legroom measured 41 inches in the front and nearly 37 inches in the second row. The GX's cargo space was impressive, with up to 90.5 cubic feet available in the Overtrail trim. The GX's towing capacity was 9,063 pounds, making it a capable choice for hauling. Despite its size, the GX was easy to maneuver and park, offering peace of mind in tight spaces.

The 2025 BMW X5 featured a curved dashboard display with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, running BMW Operating System 8. The iDrive infotainment system was intuitive, offering multiple control options, including a rotary controller, touchscreen, voice recognition, and gesture control. The X5 also included augmented reality navigation and digital key connectivity, enhancing convenience and functionality.

The 2025 Lexus GX's infotainment system was user-friendly, with a 12.3-inch gauge cluster and a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Mark Levinson Premium Audio system provided good audio quality, though it required higher volume levels at highway speeds. The GX offered ample connectivity options, with USB-C ports and a spacious armrest storage area.

The 2025 BMW X5 came with standard driver aids, including lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The optional Driving Assistance Professional Package added Highway Assistant, a hands-free system for speeds up to 85 mph. The X5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2025 Lexus GX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, road sign assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Overtrail+ trim included pedestrian detection and trail-viewing cameras. The GX had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but it included 10 airbags for occupant protection.