BMW X3 vs Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2022 BMW X3 presented a refreshed exterior design that subtly enhanced its aggressive stance. The signature kidney grille was enlarged, yet it maintained a tasteful appearance compared to other BMW models. The adaptive full LED headlights were slimmer, complemented by new vertical air intakes and a redesigned front bumper. At the rear, the taillights featured a new design with a black surround and pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs, adding a modern touch. The updated rear also included larger exhaust tips and a new bumper. The X3 offered nine exterior finishes, with new metallic colours like Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue. The interior of the X3 was well-appointed, featuring a clean design with options for wood trim, an anthracite headliner, and various seating materials. The cabin provided a comfortable and adjustable environment, with ambient lighting enhancing the overall experience.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid maintained a consistent appearance with minimal changes, introducing a new Cypress Green paint colour. The design was characterized by exaggerated forms, including scowling headlights and flared rear fenders, which some found over-styled. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid featured a large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and oversized climate control knobs. The multi-layered dashboard had mismatched textures and tones, creating a visually busy environment. Despite these design choices, the Highlander Hybrid offered a quiet ride on the road, with Toyota focusing on minimizing noise. However, the interior quality was questioned, with some controls feeling inexpensive and storage areas lacking lining, leading to potential noise during drives.

The 2022 BMW X3 was equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered two engine options. The xDrive30i model featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, achieving a 0-100 km/h time of 6.3 seconds. The M40i variant boasted a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, delivering 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This model accelerated from 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. The M40i's performance was enhanced by a flap-controlled sports exhaust system, sport brakes, and an adaptive suspension. The mild-hybrid system, while not significantly improving fuel efficiency, provided smoother start/stop operation and an additional 11 horsepower during acceleration.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, producing a total of 243 horsepower. The hybrid system included a third motor for the rear wheels, enabling standard AWD. The Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel economy, with a Predictive Efficient Drive system optimizing efficiency based on driving habits. However, the gas engine's torque was limited to 175 pound-feet, affecting high-speed passing power. The Highlander Hybrid offered Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, with a Trail mode for light off-road use. Despite its focus on fuel efficiency, the Highlander Hybrid's driving experience was described as uninspiring, with soft suspension tuning and a continuously variable transmission contributing to a less engaging ride.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided a comfortable and practical interior, accommodating five passengers with ample legroom. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40-split, offering flexibility for cargo and passenger arrangements. The X3's cargo space was generous, with a power tailgate and optional hands-free opening for convenience. The interior featured SensaTec faux-leather seats, with an option for upgraded Vernasca leather. The redesigned centre console improved ergonomics, with a larger standard infotainment system and optional 12.3-inch touchscreen. The X3's controls were well-organized, with a matte finish for a smudge-free appearance.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered seating for seven or eight, depending on the configuration. Most models featured second-row captain’s chairs, with the third row best suited for occasional use. The interior included three-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats, with additional features like a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats in higher trims. The second-row captain’s chairs provided comfort, with sunshades for added convenience. However, accessing the third row was challenging, and the seats were less comfortable for adults. The Highlander Hybrid's cargo space was versatile, with a maximum capacity of 2,387 litres when the second-row seats were folded.

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, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and various connected digital features. An optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded the screens to 12.3 inches, providing a fully digital experience. The X3's sound system options included a standard 12-speaker HiFi system and an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system. Additional tech options included comfort access keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, with upper trims featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display. The infotainment system included an 8.0-inch touchscreen in lower trims and a 12.3-inch display in higher trims, offering over-the-air updates, dual-device Bluetooth pairing, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Highlander Hybrid also offered connected service plans, with Remote Connect allowing remote access to vehicle functions. The Drive Connect service plan provided an Intelligent Assistant and cloud-based navigation. The test vehicle included a head-up display and an 11-speaker JBL sound system, delivering decent sound quality.

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

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and road sign assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with higher trims offering parking sensors and a surround-view camera. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.