2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 Toyota 4Runner

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, despite its age, maintained a rugged charm that appealed to those seeking a durable and utilitarian vehicle. Its design, largely unchanged over the years, featured a two-box body with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches, offering balanced proportions and timeless styling. While not conventionally attractive, the 4Runner's design was practical and functional, akin to a reliable tool that didn't require frequent updates. The interior, though dominated by hard plastics, was easy to clean and in line with the SUV's mission. The dashboard was old-school, with large knobs and buttons, providing a straightforward and user-friendly experience.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 presented a more modern and aggressive exterior design, with a slightly larger kidney grille and adaptive full LED headlights. The rear featured new taillights with a black surround and pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs, adding a futuristic touch. The X3 offered a variety of exterior updates, including an M Sport Package for xDrive30i models, new paint options, and aerodynamically optimized wheels. Inside, the X3 boasted a clean and efficient design, with a well-appointed interior featuring a variety of inserts, power-adjustable front seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The X3's interior colour choices and ambient lighting options added to its appeal, providing a comfortable and customizable environment for occupants.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with a 4.0-litre V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. It excelled off-road, thanks to features like A-Trac, a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, and Crawl Control. However, on pavement, the 4Runner felt slow, heavy, and clunky, with steering and braking that required effort. Its truck-like driving characteristics were part of its charm, but its fuel efficiency was a concern, averaging 14.0 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered a more refined driving experience, with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a choice of engines. The xDrive30i featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 6.3 seconds. The M40i variant boasted a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, reaching 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. The M40i also included a mild-hybrid system, adaptive suspension, and a sports exhaust system, enhancing its performance. While the xDrive30i provided a pleasant drive, the M40i offered a more exhilarating experience, particularly on winding roads.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with ample legroom and supportive seats. The rear seats provided good visibility, air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports. Cargo space was generous, with up to 1,337 litres behind the back seat and 2,540 litres with the rear seat folded down. The 4Runner's high ground clearance could pose a challenge for shorter passengers, but it contributed to its off-road capability.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided a roomy interior for a compact crossover, with seating for five and a 40/20/40-split rear seat. The cargo area was spacious, accommodating backpacks and equipment with ease. The X3's seats were comfortable, with the option to upgrade to Vernasca leather for added softness. The redesigned centre console and larger infotainment system improved ergonomics and accessibility. The X3's power tailgate and optional hands-free opening added convenience for loading and unloading cargo.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's technology was basic, with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Trail grade lacked advanced features, but the infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical buttons and knobs for easy operation. The 4Runner also included a windshield wiper de-icer and a 120-volt AC power outlet in the cargo area.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, including a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, navigation, and smartphone compatibility. The system was customizable, with options for a larger 12.3-inch screen and cloud-based navigation. The X3 offered a 12-speaker HiFi sound system, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system for the M40i. Additional tech options included comfort access keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning. The 4Runner received a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and a "Good" roof crush strength rating from the IIHS, but its frontal-impact protection ratings were less favourable.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA and was previously named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. It included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, active blind-spot monitoring, and forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection. Optional features included parking assistance, traffic jam assistance, and active lane-keep assist.