BMW
5 Series
Lexus
GS
BMW 5 Series vs Lexus GS: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the BMW 5 Series comes out ahead of the Lexus GS on fuel economy and power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
5 Series
Overall
Sentiment is highly polarized and generation-dependent. For the latest generation (G60, circa 2024-2025), initial owner feedback is sharply negative, with strong criticism directed at its excessive physical size, the near-total removal of physical controls in favor of digital interfaces, and perceived lack of driving satisfaction, particularly in lower-powered variants like the 520d. In contrast, feedback on the preceding F10 (circa 2010-2017) and G30 (circa 2017-2023) generations is generally positive, with owners expressing love for their vehicles, praising them as excellent daily drivers that balance comfort, performance, and a high-quality, driver-focused interior.
Best version to buy
For the F10 generation, the 535i with the N55 inline-six engine is specifically recommended over V8 models (550i, 750i) due to its superior reliability and lower maintenance costs, making it a smarter choice for used buyers. For the G30 generation, the 530i is noted as having strong torque and not being slow.
Known issues
- ⚠Excessive size and lack of physical controls (G60 generation): criticized as too large and unsatisfying due to digital switches for even basic functions like airflow vents. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠High maintenance costs and unreliable engines (specific to older V8 models): the N63 V8 engine (in 550i/750i) is regarded as one of BMW's most unreliable, requiring expensive repairs.
- ⚠Digital interface and haptic feedback concerns (newer generations): buttons may not work in very cold weather (below -10°C / 14°F), failing to recognize touch with gloves. Frequency: isolated.
GS
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding long-term reliability, build quality, and overall ownership experience. The GS is consistently praised as a durable, comfortable, and well-built luxury sedan that delivers trouble-free service for many years and high mileage, with specific examples cited up to 350,000 miles. It is described as a perfect sports sedan for a broad number of use cases, offering a good balance of power, roomy comfort, and sportiness.
Best version to buy
The 2010-2011 model years for the third-generation (GS 350) are specifically highlighted as the best years. For the fourth generation, the AWD models equipped with the older 6-speed automatic transmission (over the later 8-speed) are preferred by some owners for their better drivetrain pairing.
Known issues
- ⚠Outdated technology/infotainment: Lack of Apple CarPlay, slow and unresponsive screen, missing features like birds-eye view camera and massaging seats compared to rivals. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Higher running costs: Requires premium fuel, expensive tires (especially F-Sport run-flats), and generally higher costs for parts and maintenance compared to non-luxury brands. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Underwhelming performance for segment: Naturally aspirated V6 (2GR-FKS) perceived as not fast, especially compared to turbocharged German competitors; 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) times around 5.9 seconds noted. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Lexus GS is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the BMW 5 Series, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Lexus GS are a dealbreaker, the BMW 5 Series is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the BMW 5 Series or the Lexus GS?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Lexus GS than the BMW 5 Series. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the BMW 5 Series or the Lexus GS?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the BMW 5 Series or the Lexus GS?
The BMW 5 Series is more fuel-efficient on paper: 9.7-10.0 L/100km combined versus 11.2 L/100km for the Lexus GS, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the BMW 5 Series or the Lexus GS?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the BMW 5 Series than the Lexus GS. See the known issues comparison above.