VS
At a Glance
Power
483hp @ 5000
278hp @ 6000
Torque
516lb-ft
317lb-ft @ 1700
Fuel
22 MPG Combined / 39 Range
—
Towing
5952lbs
6000lbs
Engine
3.0 L/183cc
2.4 L/146cc
Choosing between the BMW X5 and the Toyota 4runner is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The BMW X5 delivers 483hp @ 5000 while the Toyota 4runner produces 278hp @ 6000. Pricing starts at $75,200 for the X5 and $56,700 for the 4runner. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
483hp @ 5000
278hp @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft)
516lb-ft
317lb-ft @ 1700
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
3.0 L/183cc
2.4 L/146cc
Engine Layout
Inline
—
Cylinders
6
4
Fuel Type
Plug-In Hybrid
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic w/OD
Number of Gears
8
8
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - Combined (mpg)
22 MPG Combined / 39 Range
—
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
18.2gal
19gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
194.3in
194.9in
Width (in)
78.9in
77.9in
Height (in)
69.1in
73.1in
Wheelbase (in)
117.1in
112.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
5573lbs
4730lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
5952lbs
6000lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
—
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Toyota 4runner
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
4runner
Practicality
4runner
Pros & Cons
BMW X5
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Toyota 4runner
Lower starting price ($56,700)
Higher towing capacity (6000lbs)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the X5 or 4runner?
The X5 produces 483hp @ 5000 and 516lb-ft of torque while the 4runner delivers 278hp @ 6000 and 317lb-ft @ 1700 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the X5 and 4runner?
The X5 starts from $75,200 and the 4runner from $56,700. The 4runner is cheaper by $18,500 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the X5 or 4runner?
The X5 has a braked towing capacity of 5952lbs and the 4runner can tow 6000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the X5 or the 4runner?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.