Compare two new cars by price, estimated monthly payment, fuel economy, and other specifications. Data comes from the CarPayCheck.com catalog and uses your selected financing terms.
| X5 | RX | |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW | Lexus |
| Starting price | — | — |
| Monthly payment | — | — |
| Fuel type | Plug-in hybrid | Hybrid |
| Fuel economy | 22.0 mpg | 30.9 mpg |
| CO₂ emissions | 130 g/mi–589 g/mi | 245 g/mi–370 g/mi |
| Annual maintenance cost | — | — |
The 48V battery in 2023-2024 X5 xDrive40i models can short-circuit internally, causing a 'Drivetrain Malfunction' warning and potential sudden power loss. Symptoms include limp mode at low speeds and, in extreme cases, smoke from the battery. This can lead to a dangerous loss of propulsion while driving.
The rear air springs on 2019-2022 X5 models (especially 2019-2020) can leak, causing the vehicle to sag and the compressor to overwork and fail. Symptoms include visible sagging overnight, a continuously running compressor, and a 'Self-Leveling Suspension Inactive' error. If ignored, it can lead to a rough ride and potential strut tower damage.
The plastic oil filter housing and coolant channels on B58 engines in 2019-2023 X5 models can crack, leading to coolant leaks. Symptoms include a sweet coolant odor, visible residue under the vehicle, and low coolant warnings. If not repaired, overheating can warp the cylinder head, resulting in costly damage.
The transfer case actuator motor in 2019-2021 all xDrive models can fail, causing the xDrive system to disengage and a 'Drivetrain Malfunction' warning. Symptoms include shuddering or clunking during low-speed turns and loss of all-wheel drive. The consequence is a potential complete driveline lock-up if the actuator seizes.
The high-voltage battery junction box or charging relay in 2020-2023 X5 xDrive45e and 2024 xDrive50e models can fail, preventing AC charging and triggering a 'High-Voltage System Error'. Symptoms include intermittent charging failures and reduced EV range. Severe cases can cause melted wiring or arcing in the junction box.
The M-Sport brakes on 2019-2023 X5 models are prone to severe squealing on light braking and premature rotor corrosion, even on new pads. Symptoms include a high-pitched metallic squeal at low speeds and possible pedal pulsation. This is a recognized defect covered by a TSB, not normal wear.
Certain 2019-2020 Lexus RX 350, RX 350L, and RX 450h vehicles have a Denso low-pressure fuel pump that can fail, causing rough running, no-start, or sudden engine stall while driving. This is covered by NHTSA Recall 20V012, so the remedy is a free fuel pump replacement at an authorized Lexus dealer. Buyers should check the VIN on the NHTSA or Lexus recall site and ensure the recall repair is completed before purchase. Out-of-pocket repair cost does not apply because the defect is corrected at no charge under recall.
BMW X5 and Lexus RX suit different driving needs. The main differences below cover price, monthly payment, fuel economy, and running costs.
The models use different powertrains: X5 — Plug-in hybrid; RX — Hybrid. The better choice depends on your daily route and access to charging.
The final choice is about more than numbers: annual distance, city or highway use, and the space your household needs all matter. Use the CarPayCheck.com calculator to apply your financing terms and evaluate both cars in your situation.
Want to compare other models? Return to the full catalog or calculate financing using your own terms.
