Lexus Rx 350 vs Bmw X5: Which Luxury Suv Reigns?
Choosing a luxury SUV can feel overwhelming, but what if we narrowed it down to two titans? The Lexus RX 350 and the BMW X5 consistently top the lists for good reason, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and prestige that’s hard to beat. But which one is the better choice for you?
This comparison delves deep into the key aspects of these vehicles. We’ll explore everything from their elegant designs and luxurious interiors to their powerful engines and innovative technology. Prepare to discover which SUV best suits your driving needs and lifestyle.
Get ready to weigh the pros and cons of the Lexus RX 350 against the BMW X5. We’ll analyze their performance, features, and overall value to help you make an informed decision. Let’s find out which luxury SUV deserves a spot in your garage!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Lexus RX 350 | BMW X5 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.4L Turbo I4 | 3.0L Turbo I6 |
| Horsepower | 275 hp | 375 hp |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft | 383 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed Automatic | 8-speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD/AWD | RWD/AWD |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | 22/29 mpg (FWD) | 21/26 mpg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5/7 |
| Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seats) | 29.6 cu. ft. | 33.9 cu. ft. |
| Infotainment Screen | 14-inch Touchscreen | 12.3-inch Touchscreen |
| Standard Safety Features | Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 | Active Driving Assistant Pro |
| Base Curb Weight | 4,155 lbs | 4,833 lbs |
| 0-60 mph | 7.1 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Engine and Performance
- Lexus Rx 350: Offers a 2.4L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing around 275 horsepower. Known for its smooth and refined performance, but may not offer the same level of acceleration as some competitors. It prioritizes fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving experience.
- Bmw X5: Available with a range of engines, including a 3.0L inline-6 and a V8, providing significantly more power and quicker acceleration. The X5 delivers a sportier and more engaging driving experience, but fuel economy can suffer depending on the engine choice.
- Winner: BMW X5
Interior and Comfort
- Lexus Rx 350: Features a luxurious and well-appointed interior with high-quality materials and a focus on comfort. Offers a spacious cabin and a quiet ride, making it ideal for daily commutes and long trips. The infotainment system can sometimes feel less intuitive than competitors.
- Bmw X5: Boasts a premium interior with a modern design and advanced technology features. Provides a comfortable and well-supported seating, but may have a slightly sportier feel. Offers a wider array of technology features and customization options.
- Winner: Lexus RX 350
Technology and Infotainment
- Lexus Rx 350: Equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system, often featuring a large touchscreen display. Offers standard features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Its interface is generally easy to learn, but the graphics may not be as cutting-edge as the BMW.
- Bmw X5: Incorporates a sophisticated infotainment system with a high-resolution display and a wide range of connected services. Includes advanced driver-assistance features and a more technologically advanced interface. The iDrive system can have a steeper learning curve for some users.
- Winner: BMW X5
Fuel Economy
- Lexus Rx 350: Generally offers better fuel efficiency compared to the BMW X5, particularly with its hybrid variant. The RX 350 prioritizes fuel economy, making it a more economical choice for daily driving.
- Bmw X5: Fuel economy varies depending on the engine, with the V8 models being less efficient. However, BMW offers fuel-efficient engine options, including a plug-in hybrid model.
- Winner: Lexus RX 350
Safety Features
- Lexus Rx 350: Comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Its safety ratings are consistently high.
- Bmw X5: Also offers a wide array of safety features, including advanced driver-assistance systems. Provides excellent crash test ratings and a strong reputation for safety.
- Winner: Tie
Cargo Space
- Lexus Rx 350: Offers a generous cargo area with ample space for luggage and other items. The rear seats can be easily folded down to expand the cargo capacity.
- Bmw X5: Provides a spacious cargo area, but the actual volume may vary slightly depending on the configuration. The rear seats also fold down for additional cargo capacity.
- Winner: Tie
Ride and Handling
- Lexus Rx 350: Prioritizes a comfortable and smooth ride, with a focus on isolating passengers from road imperfections. The handling is competent but not as sporty as the BMW X5.
- Bmw X5: Known for its sporty handling and responsive steering. Offers a more engaging driving experience with a firmer ride.
- Winner: BMW X5
Price and Value
- Lexus Rx 350: Typically has a lower starting price than the BMW X5, offering a good value proposition for its features and luxury. Resale value is generally strong.
- Bmw X5: Commands a higher price tag, reflecting its premium brand positioning and advanced features. Ownership costs, including maintenance, can be higher.
- Winner: Lexus RX 350
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Fuel Efficiency | Lexus RX 350 |
| Performance | BMW X5 |
| Interior Comfort | Tie |
| Technology | Tie |
| Handling | BMW X5 |
| Value | Lexus RX 350 |
What They Have in Common
- Refined Interiors: Both the Lexus RX 350 and BMW X5 offer premium interiors with high-quality materials and comfortable seating, providing a luxurious driving experience.
- Advanced Technology: Both SUVs come equipped with advanced technology features, including large touchscreen infotainment systems, smartphone integration, and a suite of driver-assistance systems.
- Automatic Transmissions: Both vehicles utilize smooth-shifting automatic transmissions, ensuring a comfortable and effortless driving experience for both city and highway driving.
- Available All-Wheel Drive: Both the RX 350 and X5 provide the option of all-wheel drive, enhancing traction and stability in various weather conditions and improving overall handling.
- Focus on Safety: Both models prioritize safety, including advanced driver-assistance systems such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.
- Spacious Cabins: Both SUVs offer ample space for passengers in both the front and rear seats, making them suitable for families or those who frequently transport passengers.
Lexus RX 350 vs BMW X5 Buying Guide
Performance and Handling
The Lexus RX 350 generally offers a comfortable and refined ride, prioritizing smoothness and ease of driving. Its engine delivers adequate power for everyday use, with a focus on fuel efficiency. The BMW X5, however, is engineered for a sportier experience. It boasts more powerful engine options and sharper handling, providing a more engaging driving experience, especially on winding roads. The X5’s suspension is often firmer, contributing to its performance-oriented feel, but potentially sacrificing some ride comfort for passengers. Drivers seeking a dynamic driving experience will likely prefer the X5.
Interior and Comfort
Both the Lexus RX 350 and BMW X5 offer luxurious interiors, but they cater to slightly different preferences. The RX 350 often features a more plush and spacious cabin, with an emphasis on comfort and quietness. The materials used are generally high-quality, and the design is often elegant and understated. The BMW X5 also offers a premium interior, but it tends to be more driver-focused, with a sportier design and a more cockpit-like feel. The X5 often has more advanced technology features, but the RX 350 excels in simplicity and ease of use. Both offer ample space for passengers.
Technology and Features
The BMW X5 typically leads the way in technological advancements, offering a wide array of cutting-edge features. This can include advanced driver-assistance systems, a large infotainment display, and innovative connectivity options. The Lexus RX 350 provides a comprehensive suite of technology, though it might not always be quite as cutting-edge as the X5. It focuses on user-friendliness and reliability, with intuitive controls and a well-integrated infotainment system. The choice often depends on whether you prioritize the latest tech or a more streamlined and dependable experience.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
The Lexus RX 350 often has an edge in fuel efficiency, thanks to its generally smaller engine and optimized powertrain. This can translate to lower running costs over time, particularly for drivers who cover a lot of miles. The BMW X5, with its more powerful engines, tends to consume more fuel, leading to higher fuel bills. However, the X5’s higher performance can be worth the cost for drivers who prioritize power and acceleration. Consider your driving habits and budget when evaluating fuel efficiency.
Safety Features
Both the Lexus RX 350 and BMW X5 are equipped with a comprehensive range of safety features, including advanced driver-assistance systems. These systems can help prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of collisions. The RX 350 often includes a suite of standard safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The BMW X5 typically offers similar features, often with more advanced or customizable options. It’s crucial to review the specific safety ratings and features of each model to ensure it meets your safety needs.
Resale Value and Reliability
The Lexus RX 350 is generally known for its excellent resale value and strong reliability ratings. This means that you can expect to retain a higher percentage of your initial investment over time. The BMW X5’s resale value can be good, but it might not be quite as strong as the RX 350’s. The X5’s reliability has improved, but it sometimes lags behind Lexus in long-term dependability. Considering resale value and reliability is important for long-term ownership costs.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Lexus RX 350 If…
- You prioritize a comfortable and quiet ride.
- You prefer a more fuel-efficient option.
- You value reliability and a reputation for dependability.
- You want a user-friendly infotainment system.
Buy BMW X5 If…
- You desire a more engaging and sporty driving experience.
- You appreciate a more powerful engine and quicker acceleration.
- You need a vehicle with available third-row seating.
- You prefer a more tech-forward and performance-oriented vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in performance?
The BMW X5 offers a sportier driving experience with more powerful engine options and sharper handling, making it more engaging for performance-oriented drivers. The Lexus RX 350 prioritizes comfort and smoothness, providing a more relaxed and refined ride. The RX 350’s engine is adequate, while the X5 provides more aggressive acceleration and better cornering.
Which car has a more luxurious interior?
Both models boast luxurious interiors, but they cater to different preferences. The Lexus RX 350 typically features a more spacious and plush cabin with an emphasis on comfort and quietness. The BMW X5, while also luxurious, often has a sportier design and a more driver-focused cockpit feel, sometimes with more premium materials and advanced features.
How do the technology features compare?
The BMW X5 usually leads in technological advancements, offering cutting-edge features such as advanced driver-assistance systems and innovative connectivity options. The Lexus RX 350 provides a comprehensive suite of technology, focusing on user-friendliness and reliability with intuitive controls and a well-integrated infotainment system. The choice depends on your tech preferences.
Which car is more fuel-efficient?
The Lexus RX 350 generally offers better fuel economy due to its more efficient engines and optimized powertrain. This results in lower running costs, especially for drivers with high mileage. The BMW X5, with its more powerful engines, typically consumes more fuel. Consider your driving habits and budget when choosing.
How do their safety features compare?
Both vehicles are equipped with a comprehensive range of safety features, including advanced driver-assistance systems. The Lexus RX 350 often includes a standard suite of safety features, emphasizing reliability. The BMW X5 offers similar features, frequently with more advanced or customizable options. Always review safety ratings.
Which car holds its value better?
The Lexus RX 350 is generally known for its excellent resale value and strong reliability, retaining a higher percentage of its initial investment over time. The BMW X5’s resale value is good, but might not be as strong as the RX 350’s. Consider long-term ownership costs when deciding.
What are the key differences in running costs?
The Lexus RX 350 often offers lower running costs due to its better fuel efficiency, potentially leading to lower fuel bills over time. The BMW X5’s higher performance often comes with higher fuel consumption. Maintenance costs can also vary, with Lexus often having a reputation for lower repair expenses. Evaluate your mileage and budget.
Final Verdict
The Lexus RX 350 excels in comfort, reliability, and value, offering a smoother ride and lower running costs. The BMW X5 provides a more engaging driving experience with superior performance and advanced technology. The best choice depends on your priorities: comfort and value versus performance and tech.
Winner: Lexus RX 350