2024 Toyota Sequoia vs 2025 BMW X3

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia shared its platform with the Tundra pickup, and this was evident in its design cues, such as hexagonal grilles, wheel arches, and strong fender creases. The exterior colour significantly influenced its appearance, with the Capstone model featuring more chrome brightwork. Our tester, in Celestial Silver, appeared somewhat dated, reminiscent of a "cop car." Inside, the Sequoia closely resembled the Tundra and other Toyota vehicles, with a blocky, geometric dashboard layout. The Capstone trim boasted semi-aniline leather upholstery, while other trims offered SofTex leatherette or standard leather. The Sequoia provided power-adjustable front seats and a power-tilt and -slide moonroof, enhancing customization and comfort.

The 2025 BMW X3, despite being a two-box SUV, exuded a seductive appearance with its oversized grille, aerodynamically honed flanks, and athletic proportions. The Arctic Race Blue paint on our test model, combined with machined surface wheels and Calm Beige upholstery, added to its allure. The Veganza artificial leather looked and felt authentic. Inside, the X3's cabin featured quality materials, though some plastic elements revealed its price point. The X3 was available in 30 xDrive and M50 xDrive models, with prices ranging from $62,979 to $79,179 in Canada. Our well-equipped X3 30 xDrive test vehicle, priced at $72,779, offered a good value with its extra-cost paint, wheels, and option packages.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia was exclusively available in a hybrid format, utilizing Toyota's iForce MAX hybrid powertrain. This combined a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor, producing 427 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. This marked an increase of 46 hp and 182 lb-ft over the previous model. Fuel economy improved significantly, with a rating of 11.7 L/100 km combined with 4WD. The Sequoia featured a standard 4WD system with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering adequate on-road handling. The SR5 TRD Off-Road model catered to adventure-seekers with unique tires, off-road suspension, and driver-assist features. The Sequoia's maximum towing capacity was 4,137 kilograms, with towing-related upgrades available.

The 2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Despite its weight, the X3 achieved a zero-to-100 km/h time of 6.3 seconds, thanks to its eight-speed automatic transmission and xDrive AWD system. The X3 also incorporated a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, enhancing responsiveness and fuel efficiency. The M50 xDrive variant offered a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with 393 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque, achieving 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. Our test vehicle, equipped with the M Sport package and performance tires, provided an engaging driving experience, though the ride quality was firm on imperfect roads. The X3's fuel economy was rated at 8.1 L/100 km, though our test yielded 11.7 L/100 km.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia Capstone featured automatic power-deploying running boards, aiding entry for shorter individuals. Inside, it offered a maximum of 2,460 litres of cargo space with both second- and third-row seats folded. The second-row seats were easy to move for access to the back row, while the third-row seats folded at the push of a button. However, the hybrid powertrain's battery pack affected the load floor and headroom. Legroom varied across rows, with the Sequoia trailing some rivals in this aspect. Second-row captain's chairs were available on higher trims, though they lacked bolstering for passenger support.

The 2025 BMW X3 provided a spacious interior with a power-adjustable driver's seat offering a sports car-like view. The dashboard featured the BMW Curved Display, housing a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The front seats were comfortable, with power adjustment, heating, and optional ventilation. However, rear seats were less comfortable, with low positioning and hard front seat-back panels. The cargo area measured 892 litres, with a lightweight cargo cover and additional storage under the load floor. The 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat allowed for versatile cargo and passenger arrangements.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia Capstone trim was equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, accessible through an 8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. The Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system prioritized functionality over flashiness. A full-colour 12.3-inch driver information display was standard across all trims. The Panoramic View monitor and a 10-inch colour head-up display were standard on higher trims. The 14-speaker JBL Premium Audio system was available on the Limited trim and standard on Platinum and Capstone.

The 2025 BMW X3 featured the BMW Curved Display with iDrive 9 software, offering a Quick Select user experience. However, our test vehicle experienced issues with profile creation and accessing BMW Digital Services. The system occasionally froze, affecting usability. Despite these challenges, the navigation system with augmented video provided accurate directions. Wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity worked flawlessly, offering a reliable alternative to the native infotainment features. It's possible that the issues were unique to the test vehicle or related to profile setup.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia came standard with the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 2.5 suite, including a pre-collision system, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign recognition. Front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking and blind-spot monitoring were also standard. The only optional driver aid was a trailer backup guide with Straight-Path Assist, available on higher trims. The Sequoia had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA, but the similar Toyota Tundra earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation.

The 2025 BMW X3 offered a range of driver assistance features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Premium Package added adaptive cruise control and Steering Assistant technology. The Parking Assistant Professional Package provided semi-automated parking tech and BMW Maneuver Assistant. However, Steering Assistant without adaptive cruise control affected the driving experience. The X3 earned a four-star overall rating from NHTSA, with four-star ratings for frontal-impact crash tests.