Lexus LC vs BMW X5
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars 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 Lexus LC starts from $198,400 before on-road costs, while the BMW X5 opens at $137,600. That makes the BMW X5 the more affordable entry point by $60,800.
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 $218,240 and $151,360 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BMW X5 by roughly $4,275 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Lexus LC and BMW X5 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 LC.
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 counters with panoramic roof, Harman Kardon audio and ambient lighting that the Lexus LC does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Lexus LC uses a Petrol producing 351kW and 540Nm of torque, sent through a 10-speed auto to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.7 seconds.
The BMW X5 responds with a Diesel making 210kW and 620Nm, paired to a auto driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 5.3 seconds.
The Lexus LC has the clear power advantage at 351kW vs 210kW. In the real-world sprint, the Lexus LC is 0.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Lexus LC measures 4,770mm long on a 2,870mm wheelbase, 152mm shorter than the BMW X5 at 4,922mm (2,975mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW X5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 197L in the Lexus LC and 650L in the BMW X5, giving the BMW X5 a 453L advantage. The BMW X5 seats 5 vs 4.
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 $3,306/year for the Lexus LC and $2,451/year for the BMW X5. That is a $855 annual difference in favour of the BMW X5.
Estimated annual total: $3,306 (Lexus LC) vs $2,451 (BMW X5). The BMW X5 saves you roughly $855 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus LC) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW X5). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus LC if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW X5 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BMW X5 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The BMW X5 will save you roughly $855 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Lexus LC and BMW X5?
The BMW X5 is the cheapest at $137,600 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Lexus LC by $60,800.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The BMW X5 uses the least fuel at 8.6L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Lexus LC and BMW X5 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The BMW X5 has the largest boot at 650L.
Which can tow the most?
The BMW X5 has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Lexus LC makes the most power at 351kW. The Lexus LC is quickest to 100km/h in 4.7s.
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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
