2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD, priced at $45,341, presented a blend of rugged styling and practical design. Despite its fully loaded status, it retained the appearance of a standard RAV4, lacking the larger alloy wheels found on its non-hybrid counterpart. The RAV4 Hybrid's electronic AWD system was not suited for off-road Trail trim levels, but its tough exterior styling was complemented by a functional and practical interior. The cabin featured a mix of high-quality materials and hard plastics, with some minor quality issues like a rattle from the license plate. Overall, the RAV4 Hybrid offered a stylish and practical interior, though it could benefit from some enhancements in material quality.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 showcased a more aggressive exterior design with a 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 modern touch. The X3's exterior updates included larger exhaust tips, a new bumper, and an M Sport Package for xDrive30i models. The interior of the X3 was clean and efficient, with a variety of inserts and adjustable features. The cabin offered a tailored and handsome design, with options for premium Vernasca leather and a panoramic moonroof. The X3's interior colour choices varied by material and model, providing a range of options for customization.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder gas engine with front and rear electric motors, producing a total of 219 horsepower. This setup provided a standard AWD drivetrain, with the front electric motor generating 149 lb-ft of torque and the rear motor 89 lb-ft. The RAV4 Hybrid offered several driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV, with a fuel efficiency of 6.0 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. However, the RAV4 Hybrid's tires lacked grip, affecting its handling on corners. Despite this, the SUV offered a comfortable and agreeable driving experience, with a sport-tuned suspension available on the XSE trim.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The xDrive30i model was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-100 km/h time of 6.3 seconds. The X3 M40i variant offered a more powerful 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, generating 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The M40i's performance was enhanced by a flap-controlled sports exhaust system, sport brakes, and an adaptive suspension. The mild-hybrid system provided an additional 11 hp during acceleration, though it did not improve fuel efficiency. The X3 M40i delivered a more exhilarating driving experience, particularly on winding roads, compared to the xDrive30i.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered a comfortable interior with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front cushions, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed decent legroom and heated cushions, though the seat felt slightly low. The dashboard was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. The RAV4 Hybrid provided ample storage, with a 1,059-litre cargo area that expanded to 1,977 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided seating for five, with a 40/20/40-split rear seat configuration. The cargo area was spacious, accommodating backpacks and equipment with ease. The SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, with the option to upgrade to Vernasca leather for added softness. The X3's interior featured improved ergonomics, with a redesigned centre console and a larger standard infotainment system. The vehicle offered a range of adjustability for occupants, though the thigh-support cushion control handle was a minor inconvenience for some drivers.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came with a choice of infotainment systems, featuring either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen display. The larger screen included SiriusXM satellite radio, Remote Connect, Safety Connect, and Service Connect. The top-tier system featured an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system with dynamic navigation. The 8-inch display was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and stereo volume knobs. The RAV4 Hybrid also offered advanced camera-based technology, including a 360-degree surround-view camera system.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, including a 5.1-inch colour display instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. The system offered navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a range of connected digital features. An optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded both screens to 12.3 inches, providing a fully digital experience. The X3's standard sound system included 12 speakers, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system available for M40i models. Additional tech options included comfort access keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. The SUV also had blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The RAV4 Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It included adaptive LED headlights, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, and active blind-spot monitoring. The X3 also offered advanced safety features like park distance control, forward-collision warning, and active pre-collision protection systems. Optional features included traffic jam assistance, a 360-degree surround camera view, and active lane-keep assist.