2021 BMW X7 vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 BMW X7 was a standout in the luxury SUV segment, often seen navigating the streets of metropolitan Los Angeles. It boasted superior interior quality compared to rivals like the Cadillac Escalade and offered more prestige than the Infiniti QX80 or Lincoln Navigator. Its technological sophistication surpassed that of the Lexus LX 570, and it had a significant visual presence, even when compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. The X7’s styling was both appealing and glamorous, with traditional BMW cues that solidified its position at the top of the automaker’s SUV lineup. Inside, it shared many features with the X5, offering high-tech design and high-quality materials, though some quirks required acclimation.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid presented a distinctive design that required an acclimation period for some. Its bold styling featured a blunt and bulbous nose, black windshield pillars, and swollen haunches, which balanced its appearance. The Highlander Hybrid was available in several trims, with the hybrid powertrain offered in LE, XLE, Limited, or Platinum specifications. The test vehicle, a Highlander Hybrid Limited, included features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a surround-view camera system. While the interior offered an upscale two-tone look with leather upholstery, some details, like the instrument-panel shroud, felt cheap. The dashboard’s asymmetrical design housed the infotainment and climate controls, though reflections on sunny days could be an issue.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. It included BMW’s eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which added a 48-volt starter/generator and battery to improve responsiveness and fuel efficiency. Despite this, the X7’s fuel economy ratings dropped slightly to 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering plenty of power. However, its self-leveling air suspension struggled with excessive body motions, affecting driving enjoyment. The Dynamic Handling Package improved maneuverability and stability, while the M Sport brakes provided reliable stopping power.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid switched to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 243 horsepower and achieving 36 mpg combined. This marked an improvement in efficiency over the previous V6 model. However, the new powertrain lacked excitement, sounding strained during acceleration and hill climbs. The steering felt lifeless, and the ride exhibited unwanted body movement. On smooth roads, the Highlander Hybrid handled well, but rougher terrain revealed its limitations. Around town, the electric motor torque and EV Mode were strengths, but overall, the driving experience was less enjoyable compared to its predecessor.

The BMW X7’s interior was luxurious, featuring heated and ventilated seats, premium leather upholstery, and a five-zone climate control system. Front-seat comfort was exceptional, and the second-row captain's chairs were equally comfortable. The third-row seat accommodated adults, though accessing it required some maneuvering. Cargo space was limited behind the third row but expanded to 48.6 cubic feet with the seats down, and 90.4 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered roomy and supportive front seats with power adjustments and leather upholstery. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight but felt narrow for three adults. The third-row seat was uncomfortable, with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space measured 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with it folded, and 84.3 cubic feet with the second row down. Storage was adequate but not as generous as before, with some design choices limiting accessibility.

The BMW X7 came equipped with Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and an iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, both featuring 12.3-inch displays. The system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and Connected Package Pro. Gesture control and voice recognition were available, though the former was inconsistent. A head-up display was also included, though visibility was limited with polarized sunglasses.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa connectivity. The test vehicle had a 12.3-inch touchscreen with a JBL audio system and navigation. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. The JBL sound system offered powerful audio, though it required adjustments for optimal sound quality. Driver Easy Speak technology and a video rearview mirror enhanced convenience and safety.

The BMW X7 included standard safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The package offered evasive-steering assist, traffic-jam assist, and lane-control assist. The technology was generally effective, though some lane-maintenance issues were noted. The Parking Assistance Package added semi-automated parking assist and a surround-view camera.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included forward-collision warning with intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available from the LE trim. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance had some limitations, but overall, the safety systems were effective. The Highlander received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was expected to achieve a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS.