2022 Toyota Sequoia vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's renowned craftsmanship, fitting seamlessly into the brand's lineup of true SUVs. Its design, from the iconic kidney grille to the body shape, was unmistakably BMW, offering a sense of familiarity and luxury. The X5's exterior featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice between matte aluminum or high-gloss black finishes, depending on the trim. The M Sport models added a sporty flair with body-color matched trims and high-gloss black accents. Inside, the X5 maintained the brand's signature style, with a mix of leather and soft-touch materials, though it did suffer from an abundance of black plastic. The M Sport models offered unique interior styling, including an M sports steering wheel and exclusive trim strips, enhancing the sporty feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia carried forward a mature design that had remained largely unchanged since its last major update in 2008. Its exterior was characterized by a modestly sized grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight body lines, giving it a classic and substantial appearance. The Sequoia's dimensions were impressive, with a height of 77 inches, a width of 79.9 inches, and a length of 205.1 inches, riding on a 122-inch wheelbase. Despite its age, the Sequoia's interior was built to last, with high-quality materials and tight seams. The Nightshade Special Edition added a modern touch with darkened chrome or black painted finishes and split-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels, bringing the Sequoia's looks up to date.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base X5 sDrive40i/xDrive40i was equipped with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M50i featured a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8, producing 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M offered up to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model achieved 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, with a 30-mile all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering and handling were not as engaging as other BMW models, with a tendency to wobble at higher speeds. The X5's fuel efficiency varied, with the X5 M achieving 15 mpg combined, the X5 M50i at 18 mpg, and the X5 xDrive45e rated at 50 MPGe when using both electricity and gas.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a single 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and offered a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential and two-speed transfer case in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck roots contributed to its impressive payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and a maximum towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. However, its weight of 5,730 to 6,000 pounds resulted in less favorable fuel economy ratings of 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway/15 mpg combined for RWD models and 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway/14 mpg combined for 4WD models. Despite its heft, the Sequoia provided a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities and a respectable 38.1-foot turning circle.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of its interior space, with front cupholders positioned conveniently at the center console. The seating was spacious and comfortable for short trips, though the front seats could feel hard after extended periods. The rear seats were comfortable for children and two adults, with an optional third row available. The X5's climate controls were easy to manage, and the split liftgate with full power functionality made loading cargo a breeze. The X5 xDrive45e offered slightly less cargo space than the traditional X5, but the difference was negligible for most buyers.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with roomy seating across all three rows and three-zone climate control. The center console and glove compartment provided ample storage, while rear passengers enjoyed cup holders and power access. The Sequoia's cargo compartment featured an auxiliary 12-volt outlet, with 18.9 cubic feet of space behind the third row. Folding the third row opened up 66.6 cubic feet of cargo space, and folding both the second and third rows flat provided a generous 120.1 cubic feet of space.

The 2021 BMW X5 came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The standard features included a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, voice recognition, Bluetooth, five USB ports, navigation, HD Radio, satellite radio, automatic climate control, proximity key, and a panoramic moonroof. Optional upgrades included remote start, a head-up display, quad-zone automatic climate control, a wireless smartphone charger, massaging seats, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and premium audio systems. The BMW iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system was outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a clunky operating system. However, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility were standard, along with WiFi connectivity and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Sequoia Limited added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, while a premium audio and convenience package offered additional features. Despite its technological shortcomings, the Sequoia featured LED exterior lighting, a rear backup camera, and front and rear parking sonar.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, fatigue and focus alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems, particularly in bright sunlight or light rain. The X5 received nearly all Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, which included a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The Sequoia also featured a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart-stop technology. A full complement of airbags, LATCH connectors, crumple zones, side-impact door beams, and other safety features were standard.