2021 BMW X3 vs 2020 Dodge Durango

The 2020 Dodge Durango retained its styling from a 2014 update, with its third generation dating back to a 2011 redesign. Its design connections to the Charger muscle sedan were evident, though the platform was a decade old. The Durango's cabin design was straightforward but felt dated compared to its Jeep Grand Cherokee counterpart, which had received more significant updates. The Durango was in need of a refresh, which was anticipated for the 2021 model year, promising more aggressive exterior styling and a reworked cabin. The 2020 Durango offered trims like SXT, GT, Citadel, R/T, and SRT, each with varying features from basic 18-inch wheels and a 7-inch touchscreen in the SXT to the luxury-minded Citadel with premium leather upholstery and a power moonroof. The SRT trim stood out with its unique aggressive styling and performance-oriented features.

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. The redesign refined the X3's formula, offering a luxury level of refinement that was previously challenging for BMW's smaller SUVs. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while its interior maintained the brand's cold, mechanical styling, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics. The 2021 X3 offered trims like sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, with the high-performance X3 M available separately. Standard features included 18-inch alloy wheels, a 10.2-inch infotainment system, and 10-way power-adjustable front seats, with options for genuine leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and more.

The 2020 Dodge Durango offered a range of engines across its trims. The SXT, GT, and Citadel came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The R/T trim featured a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, also available on the Citadel. The top-tier SRT boasted a 6.4-liter Hemi V8, delivering 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive depending on the trim. The V6 provided decent power for family hauling, while the 5.7-liter V8 in the R/T offered confident acceleration. The SRT's 392 cubic inch V8 excelled in low-end power and high-speed performance, complemented by a performance-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes. The SRT's driving experience was enhanced by Dodge SRT performance pages, offering detailed engine status updates and drive mode customization.

The 2021 BMW X3's sDrive30i and xDrive30i trims were equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i featured rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i offered all-wheel drive. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid powertrain delivered 288 hp and brisk acceleration, with a 17-mile electric-only range and recharging capabilities. For a true performance experience, the M40i trim featured a 382-hp twin-turbo inline-six engine, providing robust acceleration and responsive cornering. The X3 M performance model offered an impressive 473 horsepower for those seeking speed and family space.

The 2020 Dodge Durango provided 17.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 47.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.5 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. This was comparable to competitors like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot, though the VW Atlas offered more space. The Durango's towing capacity ranged from 6,200 to 8,700 pounds, depending on configuration. The cabin offered ample space, with comfortable front seats and a choice between a three-passenger bench or second-row captain's chairs. The third row was more suitable for children, but access was easy thanks to large second-row doors and easy-fold seats. The driver and front passenger had access to multiple storage options, while the SRT model's second row featured a center console with cup holders.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, among the best in the small luxury SUV segment. With the rear seats in use, it provided 28.7 cubic feet. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free power liftgate. The X3's interior was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers. The front row offered a commanding driving position, while the rear seats were comfortable for adults on longer trips. BMW provided real buttons and dials to complement the main touchscreen, making it user-friendly for drivers and passengers.

The 2020 Dodge Durango's SXT and GT trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen, with an optional 8.4-inch touchscreen standard on higher trims. The Uconnect infotainment system was praised for its straightforward menu layout and simple navigation, with a tablet-inspired layout and dock icons for easy access to functions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with seamless transitions between systems. Higher trims offered navigation, SiriusXM Travel Link, and an Alpine premium audio system, with an optional 19-speaker Harman Kardon system.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use. The system combined touch operation with an iDrive dial, catering to different user preferences. Apple CarPlay was standard, while Android Auto was optional. Additional options included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system. Gesture control was also available, allowing basic controls through hand movements.

The 2020 Dodge Durango was equipped with front- and side-impact airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, and trailer sway control. Rear parking sensors were available on the SXT and standard on other trims, with front-and-rear sensors on the R/T, Citadel, and SRT. High-tech driver-assistance features were optional, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision avoidance, and lane-departure warning. The Durango earned a four-star rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash testing and four stars in other phases. The IIHS rated it Moderate for driver's side small-front overlap testing and Good in other crash tests, with optional crash-prevention technology rated Superior.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. It also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.