2021 Lexus NX Hybrid vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X5 showcased BMW's signature high-quality craftsmanship, fitting seamlessly into the brand's SUV lineup. Its design, from the iconic kidney grille to the body shape, was unmistakably BMW, though this familiarity sometimes made it blend in with other models. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice between xLine and M Sport styling, with the latter offering a sportier appearance through body-color matched trims and high-gloss black accents. Inside, the X5 maintained a consistent BMW aesthetic, with a mix of leather and soft-touch materials, though it was criticized for an overuse of black plastic and a lack of unique interior design elements.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the UX and RX, offered a distinct yet familiar look with its sharp edges and streamlined profile. Despite its sporty F Sport styling, the NX Hybrid's underpinnings were based on an older platform shared with the previous-generation Toyota RAV4. The interior, while initially radical, had become familiar over time, featuring a stepped center console and a lack of traditional wood trim. The Black Line package added unique elements like aluminum pedals and NuLuxe upholstery, but the overall material quality felt more mainstream than luxury.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrains, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base model featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque, with options for rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 523 hp, while the X5 M reached 600 hp, or 617 hp with the Competition Package. The X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid delivered 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, offering up to 30 miles of all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering and handling were less engaging than expected, with a Lincoln-like driving experience. Fuel efficiency varied, with the X5 M achieving 15 mpg combined, while the xDrive45e reached 50 MPGe when using both electricity and gas.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower and standard all-wheel drive. Despite its sporty appearance, the NX Hybrid prioritized fuel efficiency over performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The drivetrain struggled with transitions between electric and gasoline power, affecting acceleration. The Black Line package's sport-tuned suspension improved handling without sacrificing comfort. However, the NX's steering was notably numb, and the drive modes offered minimal impact on performance.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The seating was comfortable for short trips, though longer journeys revealed harder seat bottoms. The rear seats accommodated two adults comfortably, and an optional third row was available. The split liftgate and adjustable vehicle height facilitated cargo loading, though the doors' limited opening angle hindered access to the second row. The X5 xDrive45e offered slightly less cargo space than the traditional model.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited front and rear headroom, with rear legroom being the worst in its class. The front seats, however, provided excellent support, with 10-way power adjustment and optional heated and ventilated features. The sloping roofline and thick rear pillars compromised rear visibility, though large mirrors helped. The NX's sporty dashboard design made controls easily accessible. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. Power-folding seats and a power liftgate were available but not standard.

The 2021 BMW X5 came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly over time. Additional features included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and a panoramic moonroof. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, massaging seats, and premium audio systems.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display with a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, the system felt outdated, with poor graphics and text-heavy menus. The base audio system was underwhelming, though a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system was available on higher trims.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control, particularly in bright sunlight or rain. The X5 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and mostly Good ratings from the IIHS.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, with forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The NX lacked a 360-degree camera system but offered a strong value with its comprehensive safety suite.