2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, characterized by its blunt and bulbous nose, which gave it an aggressive front-end appearance. Over time, this design might have become more familiar to onlookers, potentially losing some of its initial impact. The SUV's styling was further accentuated by black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect, and its swollen haunches attempted to balance the overall design. However, even with 20-inch alloy wheels, the exaggerated quarter panels could overwhelm the vehicle's aesthetic. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid Platinum trim offered a two-tone interior with soft leather, though the dashboard's asymmetrical design and glossy black detailing could suffer from reflections. The controls were logically arranged, but the mix of illumination colours at night could make the gauges appear busy.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 featured a revised exterior design that subtly enhanced its aggressive stance. The iconic kidney grille was slightly larger, and the adaptive full LED headlights were slimmer, complemented by new vertical air intakes and a redesigned front bumper. The rear of the X3 showcased new taillights with a black surround and pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs, adding a modern touch. The updated rear bumper and larger exhaust tips further refined the vehicle's appearance. The X3 offered a variety of exterior finishes, including new metallic colours like Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue. Inside, the X3's cabin was clean and efficient, with a variety of trim options and comfortable seating. The interior featured a standard 10.25-inch infotainment screen, with an optional 12.3-inch touchscreen available, and the redesigned centre console improved accessibility to frequently used controls.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, resulting in improved fuel efficiency with a combined rating of 6.7 L/100 km. However, this change also led to a decrease in total output to 243 horsepower. The hybrid system used an "E-CVT" to mimic an automatic transmission, but the driving experience was less engaging, with the engine sounding strained during acceleration or hill climbs. The steering was lifeless, and the vehicle's handling was affected by its weight, leading to unwanted body movement. Despite these drawbacks, the Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, especially in urban settings, where its electric motor torque and EV Mode shone.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered a more dynamic performance, with the xDrive30i model powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It achieved a 0-100 km/h time of 6.3 seconds. The X3 M40i variant featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, delivering 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This model accelerated from 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. The M40i's adaptive suspension and sport brakes enhanced its driving dynamics, making it more engaging on winding roads. The mild-hybrid system provided additional power during acceleration but did not significantly improve fuel efficiency.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum trim offered comfortable accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with 10-way power seat adjustment for the driver and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight, but the narrow cabin made it uncomfortable for three adults. The third-row seat was cramped and lacked support, making it unsuitable for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 453 litres behind the third row and a maximum capacity of 2,387 litres. However, the storage design could be improved, as the wireless smartphone charger blocked access to the storage area below.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided a spacious and comfortable interior for five passengers, with a 40/20/40-split rear seat configuration. The cargo area was ample, accommodating backpacks and equipment with ease. The SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, and the upgraded Vernasca leather added softness. The X3's redesigned centre console improved ergonomics, and the standard 10.25-inch infotainment system could be upgraded to a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The vehicle's controls were logically arranged, and the matte finish of the buttons reduced smudges.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with a comprehensive infotainment system, including Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system, and a navigation system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large volume and tuning knobs and shortcut buttons for quick access. The JBL sound system, however, had mixed audio quality. Additional features included Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror for improved visibility.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, offering a 10.25-inch infotainment screen and a 5.1-inch colour display instrument panel. The system included navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and satellite radio. An optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded both screens to 12.3 inches and provided a fully digital experience. The X3's infotainment system was customizable, with multiple control options, including steering wheel-mounted controls, voice activation, and the iDrive controller. The standard 12-speaker HiFi sound system could be upgraded to a Harman Kardon surround sound system with 16 speakers.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and lane departure with steering assist. The system also featured intersection support and emergency steering assistance. A blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, and the Platinum trim included a surround-view camera system. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with adaptive LED headlights, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, active blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional safety features included park distance control, forward-collision warning with pedestrian/cyclist detection, and active pre-collision protection systems. Optional features included parking assistance plus, traffic jam assistance, and active lane-keep assist with lane centring.