When it comes to luxury SUVs, the market is filled with numerous high-quality options to choose from. Two of the most popular contenders in this segment are the 2023 Lexus RX and the BMW X5. Both vehicles offer distinctive styling, impressive performance, and advanced features that cater to various preferences and budgets.
In this article, we’ll delve deep into the world of these two luxury SUVs, comparing their design, capabilities, and offerings to help you make an informed decision when choosing your next luxury vehicle.
Exterior Design
The 2023 Lexus RX boasts a sophisticated yet aggressive design, combining luxury and sportiness. Its signature spindle grille dominates the front, giving it a distinct appearance. Sharp, angular LED headlights and bold lines add to the vehicle’s modern look.
The side profile is sleek, with a floating roof design and chrome accents that create an elegant appearance. At the rear, the L-shaped taillights and dual exhaust tips complete the stylish package.
The BMW X5, on the other hand, maintains the classic BMW design language with its iconic kidney grille and dual halo LED headlights. The front bumper features large air intakes, emphasizing the vehicle’s performance capabilities.
The side profile showcases a strong shoulder line, while the rear is characterized by the slim LED taillights and a dual exhaust system. Overall, the X5 has a more muscular stance, reflecting its sporty nature.
Interior Design
The Lexus RX’s cabin offers a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and technology. High-quality materials, such as soft-touch leather and real wood, are used throughout the interior, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. The dashboard features a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is both responsive and user-friendly. Ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof further enhance the upscale feel of the cabin.
Inside the BMW X5, you’ll find an equally luxurious environment. The cabin is adorned with high-quality materials like leather, wood, and aluminum. The dashboard houses a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, known as the iDrive, which is renowned for its intuitive interface.
The X5 also offers ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof, similar to the RX. The X5’s cabin leans more towards a sporty design, with its driver-oriented layout and performance-inspired elements.
Seating
The Lexus RX provides ample seating for five passengers, with the option of a seven-seat configuration in the RX L model. Both rows of seats offer exceptional comfort and support, with ample head and legroom for adults. The seats are upholstered in premium leather and come with available heating and ventilation options.
The BMW X5 also offers seating for five passengers, with the option to add a third row for seven-passenger capacity. Like the RX, the X5 provides excellent comfort and support for all occupants. The seats are available in various leather upholstery options, and heating, ventilation, and massage functions can be added for extra luxury.
Storage
The Lexus RX offers a decent amount of cargo space, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. For those who opt for the RX L model, cargo capacity increases to 23.0 cubic feet behind the third row and 58.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded.
The BMW X5 has a slight edge in terms of cargo capacity, offering 33.9 cubic feet of space behind the second row and 72.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
In the optional three-row configuration, cargo space behind the third row is 20.8 cubic feet, expanding to 66.2 cubic feet with the third-row seats folded down. In addition to the larger cargo area, the X5 also features a split tailgate design, which provides easier access to the cargo area and a convenient loading surface.
Performance
The Lexus RX is available with two powertrain options. The base model comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and comes with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The hybrid RX 450h model combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with electric motors to produce a total output of 308 horsepower. The hybrid model comes standard with all-wheel drive and uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The BMW X5 offers a range of powertrains to suit different preferences. The base model is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that produces 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque.
The X5 M50i features a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that generates a staggering 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and come standard with all-wheel drive. A plug-in hybrid option, the X5 xDrive45e, is also available, combining a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with an electric motor to produce a combined 389 horsepower.
Fuel Efficiency
The base Lexus RX is rated at 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for the front-wheel-drive model and 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for the all-wheel-drive variant. The hybrid RX 450h model boasts an impressive fuel economy of 31 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, making it an attractive option for those seeking efficiency.
The BMW X5 offers competitive fuel efficiency for the segment, with the base model rated at 21 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. The X5 M50i has a lower rating of 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway due to its powerful V8 engine. The plug-in hybrid X5 xDrive45e provides the best fuel economy in the lineup, with a combined rating of 50 MPGe.
Safety
The Lexus RX comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additional available features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system.
The BMW X5 also offers a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, a surround-view camera system, and a head-up display.
Trim Levels
The Lexus RX is available in three main trim levels: RX 350, RX 350 F Sport, and RX 450h. The RX 350 and RX 450h models come with a wealth of standard features, while the F Sport trim adds performance-oriented upgrades, such as sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior styling, and sport seats.
The BMW X5 is offered in three main trims: xDrive40i, xDrive45e, and M50i. Each trim level offers a unique set of standard features and performance capabilities. The xDrive40i is well-equipped with luxury and technology features, while the xDrive45e adds the plug-in hybrid powertrain and additional efficiency-focused amenities. The range-topping M50i comes with a powerful V8 engine, sport-tuned suspension, and exclusive styling elements.
Pricing
The Lexus RX offers competitive pricing for the luxury SUV segment. The base RX 350 starts at around $45,000, while the sporty RX 350 F Sport trim is priced at approximately $49,000. The hybrid RX 450h model starts at around $48,000, offering great value for those seeking a fuel-efficient luxury SUV.
The BMW X5 has a higher starting price than the Lexus RX, with the base xDrive40i trim starting at around $60,000. The plug-in hybrid xDrive45e variant is priced at approximately $66,000, while the performance-oriented M50i trim starts at around $83,000. Though the X5 has a higher price point, it offers a variety of engine options and advanced features that can justify the premium.
Key Differences
Exterior and Interior Design:
The Lexus RX features a more sophisticated and aggressive design, highlighted by its signature spindle grille, while the BMW X5 maintains a classic, muscular stance with its iconic kidney grille.
Both interiors are luxurious, but the RX leans towards a more elegant atmosphere, whereas the X5 focuses on a sportier, driver-oriented cabin.
Performance:
The Lexus RX offers two powertrain options: a 3.5-liter V6 engine and a hybrid model, whereas the BMW X5 provides three choices, including a turbocharged inline-six, a powerful V8 in the M50i trim, and a plug-in hybrid option.
The BMW X5 generally delivers more horsepower and torque, catering to drivers seeking sportier performance.
Fuel Efficiency:
The Lexus RX hybrid model offers better fuel economy (31 mpg city, 28 mpg highway) compared to the BMW X5 plug-in hybrid variant (50 MPGe combined). However, the base models of both vehicles have comparable fuel efficiency.
Pricing:
The Lexus RX has a lower starting price, with the base RX 350 starting at around $45,000. In contrast, the BMW X5’s base xDrive40i trim starts at around $60,000, making the RX a more budget-friendly option in the luxury SUV segment.
In conclusion, the key differences between the 2023 Lexus RX and BMW X5 mainly revolve around design, performance, cargo capacity, and pricing. The Lexus RX is a more affordable option with a focus on elegance and fuel efficiency, while the BMW X5 emphasizes sporty performance, greater cargo space, and a wider range of powertrain options at a higher price point. Both vehicles, however, offer advanced safety features, luxurious interiors, and various trim levels to cater to a diverse array of luxury SUV buyers.
Final Thoughts
After thoroughly comparing the 2023 Lexus RX and BMW X5, it’s evident that both vehicles are excellent choices in the luxury SUV market. The Lexus RX offers a sophisticated design, impressive fuel efficiency, and a more budget-friendly price point. On the other hand, the BMW X5 stands out with its sporty performance, greater cargo capacity, and a wider range of powertrain options. Ultimately, the choice between these two luxury SUVs comes down to individual preferences and priorities. Regardless of your decision, you’re sure to enjoy the comfortable, stylish, and feature-packed driving experience that both the Lexus RX and BMW X5 have to offer.
Features Breakdown:
2023 Lexus RX:
- Exterior Design:
- Signature spindle grille
- Angular LED headlights
- Floating roof design
- L-shaped taillights and dual exhaust tips
- Interior Design:
- High-quality materials (leather, wood)
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Ambient lighting
- Panoramic sunroof
- Seating:
- 5-passenger seating (7-passenger optional with RX L)
- Premium leather upholstery
- Heated and ventilated seat options
- Storage:
- 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row
- 56.3 cubic feet with rear seats folded
- RX L model: 23.0 cubic feet behind the third row, 58.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded
- Performance:
- 3.5-liter V6 engine, 295 horsepower, 267 lb-ft torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive options
- Hybrid model: 308 horsepower, all-wheel drive, CVT
- Fuel Efficiency:
- Base model: 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway (FWD); 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway (AWD)
- Hybrid model: 31 mpg city, 28 mpg highway
- Safety Features:
- Standard: Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist
- Optional: Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, surround-view camera system
- Trim Levels:
- RX 350
- RX 350 F Sport
- RX 450h
- Pricing:
- RX 350: Starting around $45,000
- RX 350 F Sport: Starting around $49,000
- RX 450h: Starting around $48,000
BMW X5:
- Exterior Design:
- Iconic kidney grille
- Dual halo LED headlights
- Muscular stance
- Slim LED taillights and dual exhaust system
- Interior Design:
- High-quality materials (leather, wood, aluminum)
- 12.3-inch touchscreen iDrive infotainment system
- Ambient lighting
- Panoramic sunroof
- Seating:
- 5-passenger seating (7-passenger optional with third row)
- Various leather upholstery options
- Heated, ventilated, and massage seat options
- Storage:
- 33.9 cubic feet behind the second row
- 72.3 cubic feet with rear seats folded
- Three-row configuration: 20.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 66.2 cubic feet with third-row seats folded
- Split tailgate design
- Performance:
- 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, 335 horsepower, 331 lb-ft torque
- 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, 523 horsepower, 553 lb-ft torque (M50i)
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- All-wheel drive standard
- Plug-in hybrid model: 389 horsepower combined (xDrive45e)
- Fuel Efficiency:
- Base model: 21 mpg city, 25 mpg highway
- M50i: 16 mpg city, 22 mpg highway
- Plug-in hybrid model: 50 MPGe combined
- Safety Features:
- Standard: Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert
- Optional: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, surround-view camera system, head-up display
- Trim Levels:
- xDrive40i
- xDrive45e (plug-in hybrid)
- M50i
- Pricing:
- xDrive40i: Starting around $60,000
- xDrive45e: Starting around $66,000
- M50i: Starting around $83,000
