2025 BMW X5 vs 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2025 BMW X5 had gracefully evolved, maintaining its distinctive proportions while incorporating modern 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 shape. The front fascia was somewhat busy, but the twin-kidney grille remained reasonably sized, with illumination as an option. The M Sport Package offered sportier aesthetics, including a leather steering wheel and optional M Sport brakes. The interior continued the BMW aesthetic with a curved dashboard display, offering a sense of quality, albeit plainer than some competitors. The Silver Anniversary Edition celebrated the X5’s 25th production anniversary in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid was available in Canada exclusively with the Sport design, including the SE, XSE, and GR Sport trims. The GR Sport featured an assertive grille and rear diffuser, extending the vehicle's length. The RAV4 adopted a square, truck-like presence, with boxy wheel arches and bulges over the fenders. Daytime running lights and a rear roof spoiler added to its sporty look. The GR Sport trim, inspired by Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division, showcased red brake calipers, 20-inch black alloy wheels, and a wide mesh grille. Inside, the RAV4 offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen, with a streamlined design and customizable displays.

The 2025 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, starting with the xDrive40i, featuring a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine producing 375 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. The M60i xDrive variant boasted a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. Both models shared an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The X5 plug-in hybrid, xDrive50e, combined the inline-six with a larger electric motor and a 19.2-kWh battery, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, with an estimated 0-100 km/h time of 4.7 seconds and up to 63 km of all-electric range.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine, producing 186 horsepower, paired with a larger 22.7-kWh battery pack. The total system output increased to 324 hp, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. The PHEV offered an estimated 80 km of electric range. In EV mode, it accelerated smoothly but plateaued at 50 km/h. In Auto mode, the combined powertrain delivered a 0-100 km/h time in the low five seconds. The RAV4 offered Hybrid and Charge modes for different driving conditions. The GR Sport trim provided enhanced handling with a lower ride height and 20-inch wheels, offering a sportier driving experience.

The 2025 BMW X5 was a two-row, five-seater SUV with generous passenger space, though not class-leading. It offered slightly less first-row legroom than some competitors but more headroom. The X5 featured sport seats with extra bolstering and a cargo capacity of 960 litres, expandable to 2,047 litres with the rear seats folded. The split tailgate was a unique feature, providing convenience for loading and unloading. The X5 had a maximum towing capacity of 3,265 kilograms.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid maintained similar dimensions to its predecessor, with optimized interior storage. The SE trim included power-adjustable heated front seats and multiple USB ports. The interior featured clever storage solutions, such as a dashboard shelf and deep door pockets. The RAV4 offered 960 millimetres of rear legroom, accommodating taller passengers. The cargo area provided 951 litres of space, expandable to 1,798 litres with the rear seats folded. The GR Sport and XSE trims included ventilated seats for added comfort.

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 offered multiple control options, including a rotary controller, touchscreen, voice recognition, and gesture control. The X5 included augmented reality navigation and digital key connectivity, allowing smartphone access.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen, with a larger 12.9-inch option on top trims. The touchscreen featured customizable tiles and a quick menu for easy access. Toyota’s new operating system, Arene, improved responsiveness and loading times. The Voice Assistant responded to various prompts, and the system provided information on charging schedules and range maps.

The 2025 BMW X5 included standard driver aids such as lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package offered Highway Assistant for hands-free driving. The X5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, with enhanced camera and radar detection. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The RAV4 was expected to maintain its strong safety record, with updates addressing previous shortcomings.