BMW X5 vs Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2025 BMW X5 had a graceful evolution, 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 Pro upgrades. The interior continued the BMW aesthetic with a curved dashboard display, maintaining a connection to previous generations while offering quality and comfort.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid, particularly the NX 350h F Sport 3, was characterized by its over-stylized design. The large spindle grille and squinting LED headlights gave it an aggressive front, while the profile was sporty yet less extroverted. F Sport elements included dark trim and 20-inch wheels, with a fastback roof shape echoing coupe-like crossovers. Inside, the NX combined sportiness with modern technology, featuring a digital instrument cluster and a large touchscreen. The F Sport 3 model boasted dark graphite aluminum trim, metal pedals, and Circuit Red synthetic leather upholstery, enhancing its sporty appeal.

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

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid, specifically the NX 350h F Sport 3, was less sporty than its name suggested. It featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, providing standard AWD and a total of 240 horsepower. The hybrid SUV had a 0 to 96 km/h time of 7.2 seconds. While the ride was firm due to the 20-inch wheels and stiffer suspension, it remained comfortable. The power delivery was not particularly exhilarating, and the drivetrain felt slushy, with the engine droning under hard acceleration. The NX 450h plug-in hybrid offered more power with 340 hp.

The 2025 BMW X5 was a two-row five-seater with generous passenger space, though not class-leading. It had slightly less first-row legroom compared to competitors like the Acura MDX and Audi Q7 but offered more headroom. The cargo space was substantial, with 960 litres behind the rear seats and 2,047 litres with the second row folded. The split tailgate was a unique feature, providing convenience for loading and unloading. The X5's towing capacity was 3,265 kilograms, competitive for its class.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid's F Sport 3 model offered comfortable front seats with good bolstering and ample room. The interior featured heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control. Rear seat space was adequate for average-sized adults, though legroom could be tight for taller passengers. The NX had 643 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,328 litres with the seats folded. The coupe-like roof design limited cargo capacity compared to some rivals, but it remained practical for everyday use.

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. Augmented reality navigation and digital key connectivity were notable features, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid came standard with a 9.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A head-up display and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system were optional. The Remote Connect subscription provided remote starting and vehicle status alerts. The infotainment system was responsive, with a driver-oriented touchscreen and convenient physical controls for volume and temperature.

The 2025 BMW X5 came with standard driver aids, including lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. 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 Lexus NX Hybrid also received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS. It featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite, including blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Optional safety features included automatic parking and a surround-view camera system. The systems performed well during testing, though the adaptive cruise control was somewhat complex to operate.