2021 BMW X7 vs 2020 Toyota Highlander

The 2020 Toyota Highlander presented a design that was subtly refined from its predecessor, with a slanted tailgate glass and more pronounced body panel creases. The trapezoidal theme was evident in various elements, including the tailgate's license plate cutout and the grille. Higher trims boasted projector-beam LED headlights and fog lights, with LED running lamps reserved for the Limited and Platinum trims. The introduction of 20-inch wheels and new paint colors like Blueprint added a touch of flair, though the overall exterior was more functional than exciting. Inside, the Highlander excelled with quality fit and finish, featuring silver-painted accents and a multi-layered dash. The interior color palette was pleasing, with the Limited trim offering a three-tone interior. The cabin's padded surfaces and rich textures were a standout, rivaling even the Kia Telluride in terms of interior quality.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X7 exuded luxury and sophistication, with an interior that surpassed competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. The X7's design was both traditional and glamorous, fitting its position at the top of BMW's SUV lineup. The test vehicle featured premium extended leather, an Alcantara suede headliner, and glass interior controls, contributing to a sense of opulence. The X7's cabin shared similarities with the X5, offering high-tech design and high-quality materials. Despite some quirks, the interior was intuitive and comfortable, with features like heated front seats, armrests, and a steering wheel as standard. The X7's spaciousness extended to the third row, which could accommodate adults comfortably, a rarity in this segment.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. This engine delivered 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, providing smooth and brisk acceleration. The eight-speed automatic transmission made full use of the engine's power, though it required a heavy foot for kickdown. The Highlander's steering was loose, and the suspension was soft, leading to a floaty ride reminiscent of older Buicks. Despite these drawbacks, the Highlander offered a calming and isolating driving experience, especially on long road trips. Fuel economy was commendable, with the FWD model achieving 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined, while the AWD version offered slightly lower figures.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive AWD system. The X7 incorporated eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which included a 48-volt starter/generator and battery to enhance fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Despite this, the X7's fuel economy ratings were slightly lower than the previous year, with 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. The X7 excelled in power delivery, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. However, its handling was hindered by excessive body motions, even with the optional Dynamic Handling Package. The X7's driving experience was smooth and serene, with features like Active Comfort Drive and Integral Active Steering enhancing comfort and maneuverability.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander offered seating for eight or seven with second-row captain's chairs, providing versatility and generous legroom. The second-row seats were adjustable and easy to access, though the third row was best suited for those under six feet. The Highlander's cargo space was ample, with 16 cubic feet behind the third row, 48 cubic feet behind the second, and 84 cubic feet with both rows folded. The interior featured practical storage solutions, including shelves integrated into the dash and multiple cupholders. Controls were simple and legible, though the wireless charging pad's placement was inconvenient.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was luxurious, with features like heated rear seats, five-zone climate control, and premium Merino leather upholstery. Front-seat comfort was exceptional, and the second-row captain's chairs were equally comfortable. The X7's third row could accommodate adults, though accessing it required some maneuvering of the power seats. Cargo space was slightly less than class leaders, with 48.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.4 cubic feet with both rows folded. The X7's interior was equipped with advanced technology and comfort features, making it a standout in its class.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander's infotainment system felt outdated, with low-resolution screens and a lack of onboard apps. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was limited in its functionality, as it couldn't fully display maps or vehicle options. However, the Highlander included standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The head-up display and instrument cluster were crisp and informative, and the semi-automated driving system was effective. The optional JBL audio system was decent, and the vehicle offered various connectivity features, including WiFi and Safety Connect.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured the iDrive 7.0 infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrumentation. The system included Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with enhanced SiriusXM 360L and Connected Package Pro. The X7 offered wireless smartphone charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control, though the latter was inconsistent. The head-up display was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses, but the overall technology package was comprehensive and user-friendly.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear emergency braking. The Highlander received a 2020 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS for its crash test performance and emergency braking capabilities.

The 2021 BMW X7 included standard safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The Driving Assistance Professional Package offered advanced features like evasive-steering assist and traffic-jam assist, which were effective in reducing stress during driving. The Parking Assistance Package added semi-automated parking assist and a surround-view camera. The X7's safety technology was impressive, though some features required acclimation.