2021 BMW X3 vs 2020 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover was a testament to the brand's luxurious yet rugged heritage. Originating from the Series I off-roader, the Range Rover evolved into a luxury SUV with robust 4x4 capabilities, a combination that defined Land Rover's identity. By 2012, the current-generation Range Rover was introduced, offering a variety of trims such as HSE, Autobiography, and SVAutobiography Dynamic, available in both Standard Wheelbase (SWB) and Long Wheelbase (LWB) configurations. Standard features included leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, and the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional features ranged from heated rear seats to a 19-speaker Meridian audio system, with higher trims offering even more luxurious amenities like massaging seats and a rear-seat entertainment system.

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 X3's design echoed the larger BMW X5, with a functional yet less aesthetically pleasing interior compared to rivals like the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. Trims included sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, with the high-performance X3 M available separately. Standard features on the sDrive30i and xDrive30i included 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 10.2-inch infotainment system. Options included genuine leather, a panoramic sunroof, and wireless device charging, with the M40i trim offering additional features like 19-inch wheels and an M Sport suspension.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover offered a diverse range of powertrains. The base engine was a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 355 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The HSE trim featured a non-hybrid version of the same engine, delivering 395 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. A turbodiesel V6 was also available, rated at 254 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. The P525 and Autobiography trims came with a supercharged 5.0-liter V8, generating 518 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque, with an optional plug-in hybrid powertrain offering 398 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. The SV Autobiography Dynamic trim boasted a 557 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque V8. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, providing a blend of power and efficiency. The Range Rover's electronic air suspension and Terrain Response System enhanced its off-road capabilities, making it one of the most capable vehicles available.

The 2021 BMW X3 featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the sDrive30i and xDrive30i trims, producing 248 horsepower and paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i had rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i offered all-wheel drive. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 hp and a 17-mile electric-only range, with a recharge time of about 3.5 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger. The M40i trim featured a 382-hp twin-turbo inline-six, providing robust acceleration and responsive cornering. For those seeking more power, the X3 M performance model offered 473 hp. The X3's performance options catered to a range of driving preferences, from efficient daily driving to high-performance thrills.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover offered two wheelbase options: LWB and SWB, both with standard seating for five. The optional second-row captain’s chairs reduced seating to four but enhanced comfort, especially in the LWB version. The SWB model provided 70.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, while the LWB offered 77.5 cubic feet. Both configurations had 34.5 cubic feet with the rear seats up. The Range Rover's hands-free power liftgate featured a unique two-piece design, facilitating easier loading and tailgating. The front row included a convenient center-console compartment and decently sized door compartments and cupholders.

The 2021 BMW X3 provided up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with them in use, making it one of the most spacious in its class. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available. The X3's interior was spacious for all passengers, with ample headroom and legroom in the front row and adult-friendly rear seats. The driver and front passenger benefited from real buttons and dials, complementing the main touchscreen and reducing the learning curve for new users.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover featured the InControl Touch Pro Duo system, consisting of two touchscreens. The top screen managed navigation, phone, stereo, and smartphone connectivity, while the lower screen controlled climate, seat settings, and Terrain Response. Integrated dials in the lower screen changed functions based on the selected menu. Despite a learning curve and occasional lag issues, the system included a volume knob for convenience. A fully digital instrument panel and optional head-up display enhanced the Range Rover's tech offerings.

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. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto as an option. Additional options included wireless device charging, a digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon stereo. Gesture control was also available, allowing basic controls through hand movements, though it could result in false positives for expressive users.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover included standard safety features such as low-speed automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional features included a 360-degree parking camera, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. While the Range Rover offered a solid list of safety features, some competitors provided more standard equipment.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features like 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, and a head-up display.