2026 Lexus RX vs. BMW X5

Drivers searching for a midsize two-row SUV often consider the 2026 Lexus RX and the 2026 BMW X5. Though both vehicles are popular with families from Tarzana to Encino and across the state, the Lexus RX is one of the best-selling models in its segment. Both offer a range of engine choices, including conventional gas options and electrified powertrains. Which one of these luxury SUVs is best for your driving needs and lifestyle? Compare the 2026 Lexus RX vs. the BMW X5 in this guide from the team at Lexus of Woodland Hills.

2026 Lexus RX vs. BMW X5: Power & Fuel Economy

When it comes to performance, both models are available with four engine options. The 2026 Lexus RX is available with a conventional gasoline engine, two hybrid powertrains, and one plug-in hybrid option. In contrast, the 2026 BMW X5 is available with three gasoline engines and one plug-in hybrid powertrain. Although the BMW X5 options produce more power than those available for the Lexus RX, the Lexus powertrains are more efficient overall, reducing fuel costs on drives to Reseda. Compare the 2026 RX vs. X5 horsepower, torque, and fuel mileage for each powertrain option below: 

2026 Lexus RX 350 Powertrains

2.4L I4 Turbo Engine

Available On: 350, 350 AWD, 350 Premium, 350 Premium AWD, 350 Premium+, 350 Premium+ AWD, 350 Luxury, 350 Luxury AWD, 350 F SPORT Design, 350 F SPORT Design AWD, 350 F SPORT Handling AWD

• Horsepower: 275 hp
• Torque: 317 lb-ft
• Max Speed: 124 mph
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission
• Drivetrain: FWD/AWD
• MPG FWD: 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway*
• MPG AWD: 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway*

2.5L I4 Hybrid Engine

Available On: 350h AWD, 350h Premium AWD, 350h Premium+ AWD, 350h Luxury AWD, 350h F SPORT Design AWD

• Combined Horsepower: 246 hp
• Combined Torque: 233 lb-ft
• Transmission: CVT
• Drivetrain: AWD
• MPG AWD: 37 mpg city/34 mpg highway*

2.4L I4 Turbo Hybrid Engine

Available On: 500h F SPORT Performance AWD

• Combined Horsepower: 366 hp
• Combined Torque: 406 lb-ft
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission
• Drivetrain: AWD
• MPG AWD: 27 mpg city/28 mpg highway*

2.5L I4 Plug-In Hybrid Engine

Available On: 450h+ Premium AWD, 450h+ Luxury AWD

• Combined Horsepower: 304 hp
• Transmission: CVT
• Drivetrain: AWD
• MPG AWD: 83 mpge combined gas/electric / 35 mpg combined gas only*
• Electric Total Range: 38 miles**

2026 BMW X5 30 xDrive Powertrains

3.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder

Available On: X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i 

• Horsepower: 375 hp @ 5,200-6,250 rpm
• Torque: 398 lb-ft of torque @ 1,850-5,000 rpm
• Transmission: 8-speed Sport Automatic w/ Sport & Manual shift modes
• RWD: 23 mpg city / 27 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined
• AWD: 23 mpg city / 27 highway / 25 mpg combined

3.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder with integrated electric motor

Available On: X5 xDrive50e

• Combined Horsepower: 483 hp @ 5,000-6,500 rpm
• Combined Torque: 516 lb-ft of torque @ 1,750-4,700 rpm
• Transmission: 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission with Sport and Manual shift modes
• AWD: 60 mpge combined gas/electric / 22 mpg combined gas only
• Electric Total Range: 38 miles

4.4-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo V-8 engine

Available On: X5 M60i

• Horsepower: 523 hp @ 5,500-6,000 rpm
• Torque: 553 lb-ft of torque @ 1,800-4,600 rpm
• Transmission: 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission with Sport and Manual shift modes
• AWD: 17 city / 22 highway / 19 combined mpg**

4.4-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo V-8

Available On: X5 M Competition

• Horsepower: 617 hp @ 6,000 rpm
• Torque: 553 lb-ft of torque @ 1,800-5,800 rpm
• Transmission: 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission with Sport and Manual shift modes
• AWD: 13 city / 18 highway / 15 combined mpg**

2026 BMW X5 vs. Lexus RX: Reliability

As important as fuel efficiency is when driving around Calabasas, reliability is a key consideration for many drivers. Historically, Lexus models have had higher reliability ratings than nearly every other brand on the market. In the initial quality rating, the 2026 Lexus RX has a score of 81 out of 100 from J.D. Power, while the 2026 BMW X5 has a score of 80 out of 100. Although those ratings are fairly close, the Lexus RX scored higher in Quality & Reliability, Resale, and Dealership Experience. 

Test-Drive The 2026 Lexus RX At Lexus of Woodland Hills

Now that you know more about the fuel economy and reliability advantages of the 2026 Lexus RX, it’s time to explore this luxurious midsize two-row SUV up close. Contact us today to schedule your test drive and consultation of a new Lexus RX, new RX Hybrid, new RX PHEV, or new RX 500h at Lexus of Woodland Hills. Our team will review the features of each trim level and powertrain option to ensure you find the best configuration for your lifestyle.

Save time by getting pre-approved for financing, valuing your trade, and browsing our new vehicle offers online in advance. We look forward to serving you at our showroom in Woodland Hills.

Disclaimers:

*EPA-estimated MPG ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.

**EPA-estimated 38-mile comb all-electric driving range rating for 2026 Lexus RX 450h+ on a full charge. Operates at speeds up to 84 mph. For comparison purposes only. Mileage will vary for many reasons, including vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. Battery capacity also decreases with time and use which will reduce range. See www.fueleconomy.gov.