2021 BMW X3 vs 2020 Honda Pilot

The 2020 Honda Pilot exhibited a dynamic styling consistent with the Honda lineup, featuring thin LED headlights and a multi-tiered grille. Its design cleverly masked its size, giving it a more streamlined appearance. Inside, the Pilot offered a modern cabin with a semi-digital instrument panel, combining analog gauges for fuel and engine temperature with a digital screen for other information. The cabin was comfortable and spacious, though it used hard plastics in many areas, which detracted from its refinement compared to rivals like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. The Pilot was available in several trims, with the EX trim recommended for its added features like remote start and Apple CarPlay.

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received updates including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. Its design was a refined version of the X3 formula, offering the presence of larger BMW models in a smaller package. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while the interior maintained BMW's cold, mechanical styling. Although not as visually appealing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dashboard was more functional. The X3 was available in several trims, with the sDrive30i and xDrive30i offering standard features like a 10.2-inch infotainment system and synthetic leather upholstery.

The 2020 Honda Pilot was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission on the LX, EX, and EX-L trims, while the Touring, Elite, and Black Edition received a 9-speed automatic transmission. The V6 provided strong acceleration for everyday driving, though it wasn't the segment leader in speed. The Pilot's ride was tuned for comfort, making it ideal for commutes and road trips, though it lacked athleticism. The Intelligent Traction Management System offered drive modes for different conditions, enhancing its versatility.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the sDrive30i and xDrive30i trims, delivering 248 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid produced 288 horsepower and offered brisk acceleration with a 17-mile electric-only range. For those seeking performance, the M40i trim featured a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, providing robust acceleration and responsive cornering. The X3 M performance model offered even more power with 473 horsepower, catering to those with a need for speed.

The 2020 Honda Pilot provided a spacious cabin for up to eight passengers, with second-row bench seating. Higher trims offered second-row captain's chairs, reducing seating capacity to seven. The Pilot's third row was adult-friendly, unlike some rivals. With the rear seats folded, it offered 83.9 cubic feet of cargo space, competitive with other SUVs in its class. The Pilot was designed for family hauling, with ample storage spaces and features like a conversation mirror for keeping an eye on passengers.

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 seats in use, it provided 28.7 cubic feet. The X3's interior was spacious for all passengers, with ample headroom and legroom in the front row. The rear seats were comfortable for adults, even on long trips. The X3 featured real buttons and dials for ease of use, complementing the main touchscreen.

The 2020 Honda Pilot's base LX trim featured a 5-inch color LCD screen and a 215-watt stereo. Higher trims included an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system, however, was criticized for its confusing layout and lack of a tuning knob. Optional features included navigation, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a premium audio system on higher trims.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use. It included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto as an option. Additional options included wireless device charging, a digital instrument panel, and a premium Harman Kardon stereo. Gesture control was also available, allowing basic controls through hand movements.

The 2020 Honda Pilot came standard with the HondaSensing suite, including forward-collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. It earned a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and a Good rating from the IIHS. Optional safety features included parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring.

The 2021 BMW X3 included standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and a head-up display.