2025 Toyota Land Cruiser vs 2026 BMW X5

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser was available in two trim levels, the base model 1958 and the more upscale Land Cruiser. The 1958 model, priced at $58,195, featured a retro design with round headlights and basic equipment, reminiscent of the year it was first sold in the US. It offered a choice of three paint colors and cloth seats, appealing to those who appreciated a nostalgic look. However, the Land Cruiser model, priced at $62,965, presented a more modern and sophisticated appearance with additional color options, a refined interior, and essential off-roading enhancements. The Premium Package further elevated the experience with leather upholstery and advanced technology, bringing the total cost to $71,004. Despite its utilitarian design, the Land Cruiser's interior was notably improved over the 1958 model, offering a technologically advanced feel with dual 12.3-inch screens and intuitive steering-wheel controls.

The 2026 BMW X5 lineup included a range of models, with the X5 M60i standing out for its performance and luxury features. Priced at $109,200, the M60i test vehicle boasted a striking Manhattan Green paint, 22-inch wheels, and a lavish interior with Merino leather and carbon fiber trim. The design elements of the 2026 X5 paid homage to the original model, with wide kidney grilles and sculpted bodywork. Inside, the X5 aimed for simplicity with a panoramic curved display and minimized controls, enhanced by metallic accents and carbon fiber inlays. The quality of materials and construction was evident, with glass controls and sophisticated display graphics contributing to its premium feel. At night, ambient lighting and illuminated speaker grilles added to the SUV's special ambiance, making it a standout in its class.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser was equipped with Toyota’s i-Force Max hybrid system, combining a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivered 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, enabling a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds. The Land Cruiser featured a full-time four-wheel-drive system with electronic locking differentials, enhancing its off-road capabilities. Standard features included Downhill Assist Control and Crawl Control, while the higher-end Land Cruiser model added Multi-Terrain Select modes and a front stabilizer bar disconnect. Despite an EPA rating of 23 mpg combined, real-world testing yielded only 15.7 mpg. The Land Cruiser excelled in urban and off-road environments, offering a smooth ride over rough terrain and excellent visibility. However, its handling on twisty roads was less impressive due to its suspension tuning and tires.

The 2026 BMW X5 M60i was powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 532 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. This allowed the SUV to accelerate to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds. The standard xDrive AWD system and performance tires ensured power was effectively transferred to the ground. The M60i's fuel efficiency varied, with an EPA rating of 19 mpg and observed figures ranging from 16.4 to 21.1 mpg. The X5's dynamic M Adaptive suspension provided a firm ride, while M Sport brakes and performance tires enhanced confidence. Around town, the M60i was quiet and composed, though road noise from the tires was occasionally noticeable. While not designed for off-roading, the X5 offered a maximum towing capacity of 7,200 pounds.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser offered a comfortable front seating experience with heated and ventilated cushions and a heated steering wheel. The Premium Package added real leather and a power sunroof. However, the second-row seats lacked thigh support and had an uncomfortable backrest angle. The Land Cruiser's rear window design was less practical, and the center console's cool box reduced storage space. Cargo space was generous, with 46.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 82.1 cubic feet with the seats folded, though the high load floor required effort when loading heavy items.

The 2026 BMW X5 accommodated five passengers with ample front seat adjustments, including thigh and upper back support. The M60i model featured heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and optional massage functions. Rear-seat comfort was acceptable, though taller passengers might find the seat cushions lacking in support. The X5 offered hidden storage spaces with secure liners and a split-opening power liftgate for convenient access. Cargo space measured 33.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 72.3 cubic feet with the seats folded, though the cargo cover limited the ability to slide larger items to the rear seatbacks.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a sophisticated infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Toyota Audio Multimedia system included five connected service plans, with Drive Connect offering cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The Premium Package added a 14-speaker JBL sound system, a wireless smartphone charger, a head-up display, and digital key technology.

The 2026 BMW X5 boasted a BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The iDrive 8.5 infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and a cloud-based navigation system. A digital assistant was available, though it required disconnecting from Apple CarPlay for optimal performance. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system delivered exceptional sound quality, and the infotainment screen offered numerous menus for exploration.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, featuring forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Additional safety features included lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Premium Package added front cross-traffic alert and lane-change assist. The Land Cruiser received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side-impact testing but a three-star rollover resistance rating.

The 2026 BMW X5 offered standard safety features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. The optional Driving Assistance Professional Package included adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and hands-free driving capabilities. The X5 received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.