BMW X5 vs Lexus RX
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 RX opens at $84,900. That makes the Lexus RX the more affordable entry point by $52,700.
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 $93,390 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Lexus RX by roughly $2,420 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the BMW X5 and Lexus RX hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 89% for the BMW X5 and 90% for the Lexus RX.
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 6 in the Lexus RX.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the BMW X5 and 8 in the Lexus RX. The BMW X5 adds a 360-degree camera that the Lexus RX misses.
Feature Showdown
The BMW X5 features a 14.9-inch touchscreen, while the Lexus RX gets a 14-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW X5 stands out with Harman Kardon audio that you will not find on the Lexus RX. The Lexus RX counters with Lexus Premium Sound audio. 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 RX responds with a Hybrid making 179kW and 221Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.7 seconds.
The BMW X5 has the clear power advantage at 210kW vs 179kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW X5 is 2.4s quicker. 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, 32mm longer than the Lexus RX at 4,890mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW X5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 650L in the BMW X5 and 612L in the Lexus RX, giving the BMW X5 a 38L advantage.
For towing, the BMW X5 leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 2,000kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.8m to 12.7m
Based on 12.7m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.8m 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 $1,967/year for the Lexus RX. That is a $484 annual difference in favour of the Lexus RX.
Estimated annual total: $2,451 (BMW X5) vs $1,967 (Lexus RX). The Lexus RX saves you roughly $484 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 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus RX). The BMW X5 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: —4yr (Lexus RX).
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW X5 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus RX if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BMW X5 takes 5 of 7 key spec categories. The Lexus RX will save you roughly $484 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the BMW X5 has a clear edge. The BMW X5 adds peace of mind with a longer 5-year warranty. 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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