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What is better, Lexus or BMW?


When it comes to luxury vehicles, Lexus and BMW are two of the most prominent names in the industry. Both brands have a loyal following and offer exceptional quality, performance, and features. However, choosing between the two can be challenging. As the owner of Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I’ll break down the key differences to help you decide which brand might be better for your needs.


Performance and Driving Experience


BMW is renowned for its focus on performance and driving dynamics. The brand’s slogan, “The Ultimate Driving Machine,” reflects its commitment to delivering a thrilling driving experience. BMW vehicles often feature powerful engines, precise handling, and advanced suspension systems, making them a favorite among driving enthusiasts.


On the other hand, Lexus prioritizes comfort and reliability over sporty performance. While Lexus vehicles still offer respectable performance, they are better known for their smooth rides, quiet cabins, and luxurious interiors. If you’re looking for a car that provides a relaxing driving experience, Lexus might be the better choice.


Reliability and Maintenance


When it comes to reliability, Lexus has a clear edge. Lexus consistently ranks at the top of reliability surveys, thanks to its meticulous engineering and Toyota’s reputation for building dependable vehicles. This means fewer trips to the repair shop and lower long-term maintenance costs.


BMW, while offering cutting-edge technology and performance, tends to require more frequent maintenance and repairs. The advanced systems in BMWs can be costly to fix, and parts are often more expensive. If reliability and affordability in maintenance are your priorities, Lexus is the winner here.


Luxury and Features


Both Lexus and BMW excel in offering luxurious interiors and advanced features, but they cater to slightly different tastes. BMW interiors are designed with a focus on modernity and sportiness, often featuring high-quality materials and driver-centric layouts. The brand also leads in integrating cutting-edge technology, such as advanced infotainment systems and driver-assistance features.


Lexus interiors, on the other hand, emphasize comfort and elegance. The materials used are top-notch, and the attention to detail is impeccable. Lexus vehicles also come with a host of standard features, often at a lower price point than comparable BMW models.


Price and Value


In terms of pricing, Lexus generally offers better value for money. Lexus vehicles tend to have lower starting prices and come with more standard features compared to BMW. Additionally, Lexus vehicles hold their resale value well, making them a smart financial choice in the long run.


BMW, while more expensive, offers a premium experience that appeals to those who prioritize performance and brand prestige. However, the higher cost of ownership, including maintenance and repairs, should be considered.


Which Should You Choose?


The choice between Lexus and BMW ultimately depends on your priorities:



  • Choose BMW if you value performance, sporty handling, and cutting-edge technology. BMW is ideal for those who enjoy driving and are willing to invest in a premium experience.

  • Choose Lexus if you prioritize reliability, comfort, and long-term value. Lexus is perfect for those seeking a luxurious yet practical vehicle with lower maintenance costs.


At Kevin’s Autos, we’ve worked on countless Lexus and BMW vehicles over the years. Both brands are excellent in their own right, but understanding your needs and preferences will help you make the best decision. If you need advice or maintenance for your luxury vehicle, feel free to reach out to us!


Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lexus cheaper to maintain than BMW?


Bmw's are typically going to have higher maintenance costs yes. They are much more reliable vehicles than a lot of people realize, but the regular maintenance and costs of any repairs are definitely going to be much higher than the Lexus.



Where does BMW rank in luxury cars?


Consumer Reports also ranks car brands using a combination of its road-test scores, predicted reliability, owner satisfaction data and safety scores. Judged in this way, Consumer Reports says BMW, Porsche and Lexus are the top three luxury brands overall.



Do Lexus last longer than BMW?


Offering an advantage, Lexus owners will continue to enjoy powertrain warranty coverage for 6 years / 70,000 miles4 -- 2 whole years and 20,000 miles longer than BMW. For superior quality and warranty protection, Lexus is certainly the better choice.



Does Lexus or BMW have better resale value?


Best Luxury Brands for Resale Value After 5 Years
Lexus is simply the personification of high resale value, and their vehicles just don't depreciate like the rest of their peers.



Is Lexus more reliable than German cars?


Lexus vehicles are ranked highest for reliability and the clear favorite in the BMW vs. Mercedes vs. Lexus comparison.



Is Lexus the most reliable car brand in the world?


CR Reliability Score: 65/100
Now that's more like it. Lexus, Toyota's luxury-minded sub-brand, trails slightly behind Subaru for second place in Consumer Reports' list of most reliable brands for 2024.



What are the most reliable car brands?


The Scores:

RankBrandPredicted Reliability Score (100-point scale)
1Subaru68
2Lexus65
3Toyota62
4Honda59



What has better resale value, BMW or Lexus?


I've had nine, compared to three BMWs and three Mercedes. I've not owned an Audi. According to JD Power, the rankings would be Lexus followed by BMW, then Mercedes very close behind, almost tied, then Audi. But we're not talking about huge differences with the German brands.



Is BMW more luxury than Lexus?


The BMW is more performance-oriented, while the Lexus focuses on luxury and passenger comfort.



What is better than Lexus?


Lexus and Mercedes-Benz are two of the most well-known brands in the luxury car space. Nevertheless, the Mercedes-Benz brand's reliability and reputation can't be duplicated.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.