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 | LX | |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW | Lexus |
| Starting price | — | — |
| Monthly payment | — | — |
| Fuel type | Plug-in hybrid | Hybrid |
| Fuel economy | 22.0 mpg | 20.0 mpg |
| CO₂ emissions | 130 g/mi–589 g/mi | 439 g/mi–476 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.
The V35A-FTS 3.4L twin-turbo V6 in 2022-2024 Lexus LX 600 models can contain manufacturing debris that restricts oil flow and leads to connecting-rod bearing failure. Symptoms include engine knocking, low oil pressure, and possible complete engine seizure, with the remedy being full engine replacement. The recall repair is free under NHTSA campaigns 24V381000 for 2022-2023 and 25V767000 for 2024, but an out-of-pocket replacement before coverage typically exceeds $20,000-$30,000. Buyers should verify with the actual repair order that the replacement was completed.
The 2023 LX 600 has the highest owner-complaint volume in NHTSA's data for this generation and carries five NHTSA campaigns, according to the buyer's guide. This broad reliability concern does not isolate a single defect, but it signals a higher chance of unscheduled repairs or repeated warranty visits across multiple systems. No specific repair cost is given; the cost depends on the underlying issue, so buyers should confirm all completed recall and repair work, especially the engine-replacement campaign.
BMW X5 and Lexus LX 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; LX — 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.
