BMW X5 vs Lexus GX
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The BMW X5 starts from $137,600 before on-road costs, while the Lexus GX opens at $119,950. That makes the Lexus GX the more affordable entry point by $17,650.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $151,360 and $131,945 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BMW X5 by roughly $1,995 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the BMW X5 and Lexus GX hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The BMW X5 packs more ADAS features with 7 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 4 in the Lexus GX.
Both include the essentials: lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW X5 stands out with panoramic roof, Harman Kardon audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Lexus GX. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BMW X5 uses a Diesel producing 210kW and 620Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 5.3 seconds.
The Lexus GX responds with a Petrol making 262kW and 650Nm, paired to a 10-speed auto driving the rear wheels.
The Lexus GX has the clear power advantage at 262kW vs 210kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The BMW X5 measures 4,922mm long on a 2,975mm wheelbase, 33mm shorter than the Lexus GX at 4,955mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW X5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 650L in the BMW X5 and 390L in the Lexus GX, giving the BMW X5 a 260L advantage. The Lexus GX seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Lexus GX leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 3,500kg. That 0kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.7m diameter
Large
Based on 12.7m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,451/year for the BMW X5 and $2,850/year for the Lexus GX. That is a $399 annual difference in favour of the BMW X5.
Estimated annual total: $2,451 (BMW X5) vs $2,850 (Lexus GX). The BMW X5 saves you roughly $399 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (BMW X5) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus GX). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW X5 if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus GX if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The BMW X5 and Lexus GX trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The BMW X5 will save you roughly $399 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the BMW X5 has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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