BMW
X5
Lexus
RX
BMW X5 vs Lexus RX: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
The BMW X5 offers power, while the Lexus RX excels at fuel economy instead. Choose the BMW X5 if you prioritize power in daily driving, or the Lexus RX if fuel economy matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
X5
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation, powertrain, and ownership approach. For the current G05 generation (2019+), the inline-six (B58) powertrain is very frequently praised for its performance and noted reliability, with some owners calling it "super reliable" and "the best inline 6 in the world." The driving experience is consistently highlighted as a major strength, described as "performance oriented" with superior ride, handling, and road feel compared to key competitors. However, significant criticism is directed at the plug-in hybrid variant (50e), with one detailed owner report citing a "terrible" experience involving multiple, repeated drivetrain failures and extensive dealership visits.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a single "best" version. Strong, recurrent praise is directed at models equipped with the B58 inline-six engine (e.g., xDrive40i), which is lauded for its reliability and performance.
Known issues
- ⚠. For long-term ownership (5-10 years), setting aside a significant fund for maintenance and repairs is considered mandatory. A pre-purchase inspection by a specialist is critical, especially for older or high-mileage examples.
RX
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment centered on exceptional long-term reliability, comfort, and low ownership costs. The RX is consistently described as a "bombproof," comfortable, and quiet vehicle built to last well over 150,000 miles with minimal issues. Owners report high satisfaction with its role as a refined, practical daily driver and family vehicle.
Best version to buy
For the 2016-2022 generation, models equipped with the naturally aspirated V6 engine (RX 350) are highly recommended for their proven, bulletproof reliability. For the 2023+ generation, the plug-in hybrid RX 450h+ receives strong praise for its combination of smooth EV driving, ample power (0-60 in 5.8 seconds per owner-cited review), and efficiency, though its high cost is noted.
Known issues
- ⚠Dated infotainment system (pre-2023 models): described as outdated, with inferior connectivity and interface. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Interior material quality concerns (2023+ redesign): perceptions of cheaper-feeling materials, hard plastics, and a less luxurious feel compared to previous RX generations and some competitors. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠12V battery issues (2025 RX 450h+): multiple reports of 12V auxiliary battery failures or draining at low mileage, suspected to be a manufacturing defect. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Lexus RX is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the BMW X5, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Lexus RX are a dealbreaker, the BMW X5 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the BMW X5 or the Lexus RX?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Lexus RX than the BMW X5. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the BMW X5 or the Lexus RX?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The BMW X5 is classed as a SAV, the Lexus RX as a SUV, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the BMW X5 or the Lexus RX?
The Lexus RX is more fuel-efficient on paper: 8.7 L/100km combined versus 11.5-12.5 L/100km for the BMW X5, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the BMW X5 or the Lexus RX?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.