The Lexus RX and BMW X5 are both luxury crossovers, but they have very different strengths and weaknesses. The X5 is more sporty and performance-focused, while the RX is more comfortable and refined. The X5 costs more initially and is more expensive to maintain, while the RX is known for its reliability and lower maintenance costs. Let’s take a closer look.
Performance Considerations
The BMX X5 has a more potent engine than the RX with a 375-horsepower six-cylinder. It also delivers a sportier driving experience with the xDrive AWD system. The Lexus RX features a 275-horsepower engine, which is plenty to move it around, but not as sporty as the X5. It also offers AWD. However, the Lexus does a better job of providing a comfortable ride compared to the BMW.
Interior Features and Comfort
Both SUVs have a long list of interior features and plenty of cabin comfort. The BMW X5 adds many premium features in higher trims, including heated seats. The Lexus RX is also comfortable and roomy inside, offering available features like an adaptive suspension and a panoramic moonroof.
Cost and Reliability Factors
Lexus is one of the most reliable automotive brands you can buy, so it’s no surprise that the RX runs away with this category. It’s well-known for having strong reliability and low maintenance costs. If you’re looking for a dependable long-term purchase, the RX is a great choice. On the other hand, BMW models tend to have more expensive maintenance and repair costs and aren’t as reliable as Lexus models.
Detailed Comparison
Let’s explore a more detailed comparison between the two SUVs. Starting with price, the latest BMW X5 base trim starts at around $67,000. The latest Lexus RX model’s base price is quite a bit less at $50,000. For this price, the X5 uses a 3.0-liter turbo-six that makes 375 horsepower paired with RWD. It gets about 27 mpg on the highway with this setup. On the other hand, the RX has a 2.4-liter turbo-four that makes 275 horsepower paired with FWD. It gets about 29 mpg on the highway.
Next up, let’s compare some popular options for the two crossovers. The RX comes with adaptive cruise control and remote engine start as standard, while the X5 does not. Both SUVs have parking sensors, but only the RX has multi-zone climate control standard. In terms of interior features, both SUVs have similar options, including leatherette trim. However, the X5 has standard wood trim compared to metal and plastic for the RX.
How To Choose Between the X5 and RX
In this case, there’s a clear difference between these SUVs. The BMW X5 costs quite a bit more than the Lexus RX, but you also get a lot more power and performance in the lower trim levels. The Lexus RX offers a lot of comfort features in the base trim, in some cases more than the X5. However, the RX can’t really match the sporty performance of the X5.
Finally, if reliability is a big concern, there’s no contest between the two. The Lexus RX will likely be a better long-term investment.
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