DecodedCarsBMW 5 Series vs Lexus LS
2026 BMW 5 Series vs 2026 Lexus LS — two midsize cars compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
The BMW 5 Series is more fuel-efficient: 31 vs 21 MPG combined in its best version.
That works out to about $1,250 a year less in fuel for the BMW 5 Series (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
The Lexus LS is the bigger car, about 7 inches longer.
Across all model years since 2005, the BMW 5 Series has had fewer recall campaigns (9 vs 13).
The two cars
The 2026 BMW 5 Series is a midsize car offered with 2 engines (2.0L 4-cyl turbo and 3.0L 6-cyl turbo), including a hybrid version and rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. It measures about 199 inches long and 75 inches wide on a 118-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,158 lb (5-Series 530i Xdrive 4dr Sedan).
The 2026 Lexus LS is a midsize car offered with a 3.4L 6-cyl turbo engine and all-wheel drive. It measures about 206 inches long and 75 inches wide on a 123-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,938 lb (500 4dr Sedan).
Buying used? The 2024 5 Series and the 2017 LS have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2018 LS.
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the BMW 5 Series if…
- You want lower fuel bills (31 vs 21 MPG)
- You want something easier to park (7 in shorter)
- You want a hybrid or electric option
Choose the Lexus LS if…
- You want more room (7 in longer)
Pros & cons of each
2026 BMW 5 Series
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid as well as gas.
- AWD / 4WD available
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
2026 Lexus LS
- Below-average fuel economyBest version gets 21 MPG combined, 33% below the 2026 midsize car average of 31.2 MPG.
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
Full 2026 BMW 5 Series specs →Full 2026 Lexus LS specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →