2021 BMW X3 vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, had undergone significant updates by 2020, including the addition of a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation refined the X3's design, giving it the presence of larger BMW models like the X5. Its exterior projected a downsized luxury SUV image, while the interior maintained BMW's signature cold, mechanical styling. Although not as visually appealing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dashboard was more functional. The 2021 lineup included trims such as sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, with the high-performance X3 M available separately. Standard features included 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 10.2-inch infotainment system, with options for genuine leather, a panoramic sunroof, and more.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, still fresh in design, featured a bold and distinctive look with a blunt, bulbous nose and black windshield pillars creating a floating roof effect. Its styling, though initially polarizing, was expected to become familiar over time. The Highlander Hybrid was available in LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims, with pricing from $38,410 to $48,365. The evaluated model, a Limited trim with electronic AWD, included features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a surround-view camera system. While Toyota executed quality well, some details, like the hollow-sounding instrument-panel shroud, detracted from the overall experience. The interior offered an upscale two-tone look with leather upholstery, though reflections on the screen and busy gauge illumination were noted.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i had rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i came with all-wheel drive, providing solid acceleration for city and highway driving. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and brisk acceleration, with a 17-mile electric-only range and a recharge time of 3.5 hours using a 240-volt charger. For those seeking performance, the M40i offered a 382-hp twin-turbo inline-six, while the X3 M boasted 473 horsepower.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, achieving 36 mpg combined (35 mpg with AWD) and producing 243 horsepower. AWD was optional, with front-wheel drive as standard. The hybrid used an "E-CVT" to mimic an automatic transmission. While more efficient than its predecessor, the Highlander Hybrid's power was merely adequate, with a strained engine sound during hard acceleration or hill climbs. Steering was lifeless, but regenerative brakes improved over the previous version. The Highlander Hybrid excelled in electric motor torque and freeway cruising comfort, though it lacked driving enjoyment.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with them in use. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free version. The interior was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom in the front and rear. Real buttons and dials complemented the touchscreen, enhancing usability.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited provided roomy accommodations with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat and heated steering wheel. Second-row captain’s chairs were standard, but the test vehicle had a bench seat, increasing capacity to eight. The third-row seat was uncomfortable, with tight headroom and limited legroom. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage was less generous than before, with some design choices limiting accessibility.

The 2021 BMW X3 featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen with the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use. It included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto as an option. Additional options were wireless charging, a digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon stereo. Gesture control was available but could result in false positives.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The top infotainment system included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, 11-speaker JBL audio, and navigation. User-friendly controls and a voice recognition system enhanced the experience, though the sound system's quality varied. Driver Easy Speak projected the driver’s voice to rear passengers, and a video rearview mirror offered a clear view behind the vehicle.

The 2021 BMW X3 included standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. Optional features were adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, adding intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard from the LE trim. The Highlander received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was expected to achieve a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS.