Lexus RX 350 vs BMW X5 xDrive40i: Which SUV Leads?
A head-to-head comparison of luxury, performance, tech, and value.
Luxury SUVs today are much more than comfortable family movers; they’ve become symbols of style, engineering excellence, and personal preference. And when two giants of the segment stand face to face, choosing the right one becomes even more challenging. This brings us to the Lexus RX 350 vs BMW X5 xDrive40i showdown, a comparison many UAE buyers find themselves considering. Both SUVs offer comfort, strong performance, advanced technology, and the long-term reliability expected from premium brands. But which one truly fits your lifestyle and driving expectations?
Read this comparison to the end as we break down pricing, performance, interiors, safety, and driver-assistance features. By the time you finish, you’ll know exactly which model deserves a place in your garage.
But before we get into the details, let’s meet our rivals:
Meet the Rivals
Lexus RX 350
The Lexus RX 350 has been a leader in the luxury SUV segment since its debut in 1998. Over the years, it has earned a solid reputation for its exceptional reliability, smooth driving experience, and quiet, comfortable cabin. These qualities have made it a favorite among buyers who appreciate refinement and stress-free ownership.
Positioned in the mid-size luxury SUV segment, it continues to attract families and professionals seeking a stylish, comfortable vehicle. Its elegant exterior design, well-appointed leather interior and the latest Lexus Safety System 2.0 contribute to its strong appeal. In the UAE, it is especially popular for its fuel efficiency and Lexus’s renowned after-sales service, which further enhances long-term ownership value.
Lexus RX 350 Price in the UAE
The 2025 Lexus RX 350 Prestige is priced at AED 287,000.
BMW X5 xDrive40i
The BMW X5 xDrive40i is one of the most recognized names in the luxury SUV segment. First introduced in 1999, it helped establish the modern high-performance SUV category, blending practicality with sporty driving dynamics. Over the years, it has built a strong reputation for its sharp handling, powerful engines and premium interiors, qualities that have consistently placed it among the top choices in its class.
It continues this legacy with a refined design, a tech-laden cockpit, and a smooth yet responsive 3.0L turbocharged engine. It remains a favorite among buyers who want the confidence of German engineering, a commanding road presence and advanced comfort and safety features. Known for its strong highway stability and engaging drive, it appeals to those looking for a luxury SUV that feels both sophisticated and sporty.
BMW X5 Price in the UAE
The 2025 BMW X5 price in the UAE AED 247,801-337,961
Performance Comparison
Let’s discuss the performance of these luxury SUVs:
| Lexus RX 350 | Specs | BMW X5 xDrive40i |
| 4-cylinder | Engine | 6-cylinder |
| Turbocharged | Forced Induction | Turbocharged |
| 2.4L | Displacement | 3.0L |
| 8-speed Automatic | Transmission | 8-speed Steptronic Automatic |
| AWD | Drivetrain | AWD |
| 275 hp | Power | 340 hp |
| 430 Nm | Torque | 450 Nm |
| 7.6 sec | 0–100 km/h | 5.5 sec |
| 11.9 Km/L | Fuel Economy | 11.7 Km/L |
| 1,990-2,150 kg | Weight | 2,100-2135 kg |
Takeaways
The BMW X5 xDrive40i clearly holds the performance edge with more horsepower, more substantial torque, and quicker acceleration. Its 3.0L inline-6 delivers a sportier, more responsive driving experience. The Lexus RX 350, meanwhile, focuses on smooth power delivery, refinement, and balanced everyday performance.
Cabin Comfort
Let’s compare the interior comfort and feature offerings:
| Lexus RX 350 | Specs | BMW X5 xDrive40i |
| 5 | No. of Seats | 5 |
| Leather seats | Seat Material | Vernasca Leather / Optional Merino Leather |
| Unavailable | Paddle Shifters | Standard (Steptronic paddles) |
| Dual-zone Auto | Climate Control | 2.5 zone Automatic |
| 14″ Touchscreen | Multimedia | 12.3″ Instrument and 12.3″ Control Display (Live Cockpit Professional) |
| Standard | Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | Standard (Wireless) |
| Unavailable | Wireless Charging | Available (Wireless Charging Package) |
| Unavailable | Ambient Lighting | Standard Ambient Light Package |
| Panoramic Glass Roof | Sunroof | Panorama Glass Roof |
| 12-speaker Lexus Premium / 21-speaker Mark Levinson | Sound System | HiFi 10-speaker / Harman Kardon / Bowers & Wilkins options |
| Ventilated, power seats | Seat Functions | Power, ventilated, heated, massage seats Available |
| 462-1,308 L (With the rear seats folded down) | Boot Capacity | 550–1870 L (with seats folded) |
Takeaways
The BMW X5 xDrive40i offers a more upscale interior with premium leather options, advanced climate control, configurable ambient lighting, and high-end audio systems. The Lexus RX 350, however, excels in comfort, build quality, and ease of use, especially with its larger 14″ touchscreen and ventilated seating.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Now, let’s compare both SUVs in terms of active and passive safety:
| Lexus RX 350 | Specs | BMW X5 xDrive40i |
| 10 Airbags | Airbags | 6 Airbags (Driver, Passenger, Side, Curtain) |
| Standard | ABS | Standard |
| Standard | EBD | Standard |
| Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 | AEB | Standard (Active Guard Plus) |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Cruise Control | Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go |
| Standard | ISOFIX | Unavailable |
| Standard | RCTA | Standard (Rear Crossing Warning) |
| Blind Spot Monitor | Blind Spot Monitoring | Lane Change Warning and Blind Spot Detection |
| Standard | TPMS | Standard |
| Standard | HSA | Standard |
| Standard | VSC | Standard |
| Standard | TRC | Standard |
| Unavailable(depends on trims) | HUD | Available (BMW Laserlight and HUD features) |
| Lane Tracing Assist | Lane Assist | Lane Keeping Assist |
| Unavailable | Lane Change Assist | Standard |
| Panoramic View Monitor | 360 Camera | Parking Assistant and Surround View |
| Standard | Parking Sensors | Standard |
Takeaways
While both vehicles offer strong safety packages, the BMW X5 xDrive40i includes more advanced driver-assistance features, such as the Reversing Assistant, Driving Assistant Professional, and additional radar-based technologies, either as standard or optional. The Lexus RX 350 focuses on reliability and essential protection through Lexus Safety System 3.0, and some features marked as “Unavailable” are not listed in the official brochure; availability may vary by region or trim level.
Lexus RX 350 vs BMW X5 xDrive40i: Editor’s POV
Both models approach luxury from two very different angles. The Lexus RX 350 stands out for its reliability, smooth driving character, and long-term value. With a spacious cabin, excellent build quality, and a serene ride, it suits buyers who prioritize comfort and refinement above all else.
In contrast, the BMW X5 xDrive40i focuses on performance and driving excitement. A stronger engine, sharper handling, and a more advanced tech package give it a noticeable edge for drivers seeking a premium and engaging experience. The cabin also feels more dynamic and upscale, due to ambient lighting, high-grade materials, and optional top-tier audio systems. Overall, the X5 serves as the performance-driven benchmark, while the RX leans toward long-term comfort and ease of ownership.
- Buy the Lexus RX 350 if you prefer a quiet, refined luxury SUV that excels in reliability, comfort, and long-term ownership value. It is ideal for daily commuting and buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency and stress-free maintenance.
- Buy the BMW X5 xDrive40i if you want the best mix of performance, technology, and premium cabin quality. It offers faster acceleration, more advanced features, and a sportier, more engaging drive.
Conclusion
The Lexus RX 350 vs BMW X5 xDrive40i comparison highlights two exceptional luxury SUVs designed for very different drivers. The BMW X5 xDrive40i stands out with its stronger performance, advanced safety tech, and high-end interior features. The Lexus RX 350, meanwhile, focuses on comfort, efficiency, and long-term dependability, offering a serene and refined ownership experience.
Ultimately, your choice comes down to personal priorities: dynamic German engineering or dependable Japanese comfort.
Tell us which SUV you’d choose in the comments, and stay tuned to the Arabwheels Blog for more automotive insights and comparisons
