My sister is considering either an X5 or RX400. I know that this is a lexus forum but I know that not everyone swears by the badge just because it is a Lexus.

Built as desired they would each be priced at approximately $50,000. Her situation is pretty simple, she is married, is having a baby, lives in the south (no real snow) and has a good job. She is coming from a 3 series and keeps her cars a long time.

I personally like the X5 better given these two. Does anyone want to share their thoughts?

 

If she keeps her cars a long time, means she is buying, if buying I would go RX400h

 

We test drove both and liked the 400h a million times better. Less clunky, smooth ride, excellent power, and of course fantastic mileage for an SUV.

Gas prices could be (anything could happen) $5 from years from. The hybrid is definately a safer bet and the batteries have proven to be long lasting.

 

x5 for sure, coming from the 3 series, she is not going to like how the rx400h feels, no offense but I was terrified to drive the RX faster than 80, we got rid of our first x5 4.4 for the RX400h when it first came out, unfortunately totalled it, we went back to the X5


one thing for sure, it was safe though !

 

Although the 400H has the nicer interior and better nav system, the X5's exterior is so much better looking IMHO.

Definitely have your friend test drive both cars. The 400H will feel more floaty compared to the sporty ride of the X5.

 

VERY different vehicles, so it will depend what she likes.

A friend had the older X5 and traded it for the RX400h. She HATED the RX although I don't think it's that bad at all. She was used to the X5's more capable handling and brakes and felt the RX400h's regenerative brakes and throttle response were just 'weird'.

The RX400h is a very nice vehicle and of course has decent fuel economy for an SUV. It's super quiet and comfortable.

The new gen X5 is sportier than the RX but I think the new X5 also has 3rd row seats if that's important to you.

As I said, very different vehicles.

 

Our RX is a lot smoother than our 3 series, which is what consinder the opposite of smooth and a comfortable ride.

 

I prefer the styling of the X5. I took one out before, only the V8 version and i like it pretty good, steering was firm but it handled like an oversized 5 series, which was to be expected.

 

Love the X5 (but hate the BMW service, but it could just be bad dealers I dealt with). But please, wait for the 3.5is version or go for 4.8i. The new twin turbo diesel is coming out and it should be a very good car.

IMHO, the 3.0is is just massively under powered. Oh and make sure to get sport package with adaptive air suspension. Worth every penny.

 

I knew someone that had an X5 and thoroughly hated the car, but then I know another friend that absolutely loves her X5.

Lexus is much more reliable statistically in comparison to the BMW, but of course there's always a bad apple on a tree so who knows. I think your sister should thoroughly test drive both cars and see which one speaks to her rather than hear opinions. Sometimes the best advice is what the car tells you.

 

the new X-5 body is already out, the new RX still hasnt been released. If she keeps her cars a long time then either go with the X-5 if she needs to get a car now, if not wait for new RX, looks like its gonna be a sweet lookin car

 

it todays enviroment, buying an RX400h is much better value proposition than buying an X5. I am not sure what the price of gas will be in 3-4 years and depending on that, RX might be worth a lot more used.

And what kind of car does she need? Family SUV, RX... sporty SUV X5.

 

When is the new RX being released? I thought that I read Feb 2009?

 

Unless your sister is someone who would really want the superior driving feel of the BMW steering/suspension/chassis, I'd say go with the RX. The X5 definitely steers and handles better, but is saddled with a less reliable repair record in general, questionable reliability of the electronics, sometimes (?) arrogant dealerships, expensive parts/service (when not provided free), more complex/frustrating buttons and controls, and, of course, the infamous I-Drive. But there is no question that BMW's are nice to drive, especially on smooth roads.

$50,000, though, is a lot of money to spend. If all your sister needs is a good reliable mid-sized SUV there are a number to choose from that sell for much less money. The Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Hyundai Santa Fe/Veracruz are all good examples....and, for a little more, the Acura MDX. What she saves by buying something in that price range will buy a LOT of gasoline, even at today's prices.

 

I was in the same boat and picked the X3 over the RX anything. Why? I wanted an all season, safe & stable vehicle that offered excellent driving dynamics. The RX drives likes hovercraft imo but I commend Lexus for offering light steering for those who are elderly and limited hand/arm strength. This is my opinion so don't get your feathers ruffled folks. Your sister will have to come up with her own.. If she enjoyed her 3 series, then the X5 will be a continuation of that enjoyment. 50k gets her a base X5 or near loaded RX400H. Maybe an X3 is more in line with her budget? There will be a new Lexus RX next year though along with an all new X3.. Maybe she should wait to see what those vehicles have to offer..
Good luck