BMW X5 49·Lexus RX 63on the MotiveGrid Score·Lexus RX about $31,953 less over 5 years
The verdict
The 2026 Lexus RX is the cheaper one to own — roughly $31,953 less over five years, mostly because it holds its value better. The BMW X5 counters with more towing capacity (7,200 vs 3,500 lbs) and more cargo room (33.9 vs 29.6 cu ft).
Go with the Lexus RX for the better long-term value; consider the BMW X5 if you prioritize more towing capacity and more cargo space.
Last updated July 2026 · National-average estimates
BMW X5 vs. Lexus RX
MotiveGrid scores, key specs, and five-year cost comparison: 2026 BMW X5 versus 2026 Lexus RX.
Metric
BMW X5
Lexus RX
MotiveGrid Score
49
63
Cost of Ownership
32
60
Powertrain
54
73
Driver Assistance
6
32
Livability
30
42
Safety
96
72
5-Year Cost to Own
$93,310
$61,357
Depreciation (5-yr)
$41,663
$18,522
Fuel / Energy (5-yr)
$12,476
$9,621
Insurance (5-yr)
$20,995
$18,595
Maintenance (5-yr)
$4,080
$3,095
Tires (5-yr)
$2,150
$2,150
Financing (5-yr)
$10,276
$8,008
Registration (5-yr)
$1,670
$1,365
Starting Price
$68,300
$53,225
Horsepower
375 hp
246 hp
MPG (combined)
27 mpg
36 mpg
Cargo volume
33.9 cu ft
29.6 cu ft
Seating
5
5
Towing capacity
7,200 lbs
3,500 lbs
Drivetrain
RWD
AWD
Gas
2026$68,300
MSRP
$68,300
Mo · 5yr
$1,555
$93,310 / 5 years
Best for families
Hybrid
2026$53,225
MSRP
$53,225
Mo · 5yr
$1,023
$61,357 / 5 years
Best for long-term savings
VS
01 · The MotiveGrid Score
Five measured pillars, weighted into one score.
Cost, Powertrain, Driver Assistance, Livability, and Safety — each scored against its class, then combined into a single MotiveGrid Score. Built by our engineering team and benchmarked against independent sources like NHTSA, IIHS, and CarEdge. How it’s calculated →
Lexus RX scores higher overall.
BMW X5
0
/ 100
Lexus RX
0
/ 100
CostFive-year all-in cost to own, benchmarked against the class median.
X5
32
RX
60
Winner: RX
$31,953 cheaper / 5 yrs
Strong projected resale value▲
PowertrainEnergy efficiency paired with long-term ownership confidence.
X5
54
RX
73
Winner: RX
+19 pts
Good fuel economy▲
Driver AssistHighway driving support, parking convenience, and hands-free automation.
X5
6
RX
32
Winner: RX
+26 pts
LivabilityPassenger space, cargo room, and everyday maneuverability.
X5
30
RX
42
Winner: RX
+12 pts
SafetyCrash-test protection plus standard crash-avoidance features.
Lexus RX is the better pick for long-term ownership — about $31,953 cheaper over 5 years with stronger fundamentals on running cost.
BMW X5 still wins if your priority is best for families.
Daily commuter
Lexus RX
Lowest energy cost per mile
Budget-focused
Lexus RX
Cheapest to own across 5 years
Family hauler
BMW X5
Much stronger safety with more cargo room
Highway driver
Lexus RX
Better adaptive cruise + lane keep
City driver
Lexus RX
Easiest to park and maneuver in tight spots
03
Cost of Ownership
Monthly running costs — national baseline.
Adjust for your situation
State
Miles/yr15,000
Loan rate7%
Down payment20%
BMW X5
Monthly · 5-Year avg
$1,555
$93,310 total / 5 years
Total · monthly$1,555/mo
Lexus RX
Monthly · 5-Year avg
$1,023
$61,357 total / 5 years
Total · monthly$1,023/mo
04
Frequently asked questions
Lexus RX comes out about $31,953 cheaper over 5 years on running costs (depreciation, fuel/energy, insurance, maintenance, financing). The gap shifts with your state, annual miles, and loan rate — use the "Adjust for your situation" panel above.
