2021 BMW X3 vs 2020 Toyota Sienna

The 2020 Toyota Sienna, part of its third generation, had been around since 2011 and received updates in 2018. Despite these updates, the 2020 model still felt somewhat dated, with occasional upscale touches overshadowed by its overall aged design. The hollow "thud" of the front doors was a subtle reminder of its older fit and finish. The instrument panel, reminiscent of Toyota's 2010 parts bin, offered simplicity that made the controls easy to use. The Sienna was available in various trims, from the well-equipped base L to the luxurious Limited Premium. Each trim offered a range of features, such as the SE's sport instrumentation and power rear liftgate, or the Limited's leather seats and JBL premium audio system. The Nightshade Edition added a touch of style with dark accents and wheels, appealing to those who wanted a minivan with a cool factor.

The 2021 BMW X3, introduced in its third generation in 2018, received updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation 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. Although not as visually appealing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dashboard was more functional. The 2021 X3 came in several trims, including the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and xDrive30e plug-in hybrid. Standard features included 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 10.2-inch infotainment system, with options for genuine leather, a panoramic sunroof, and a hands-free power liftgate. The M40i trim added 19-inch wheels and an M Sport suspension for enhanced performance.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 296 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It offered a Sport mode for livelier throttle and shift response, and a manual mode for its 3,500-pound towing capacity. The Sienna's front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration provided the best fuel economy, with 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined. All-wheel drive (AWD) was available on all trims except the base L, offering better traction in inclement conditions but slightly lower fuel efficiency. The Sienna's low center of gravity and broad base contributed to decent handling dynamics, though its twitchy steering required constant attention at higher speeds.

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

The 2020 Toyota Sienna excelled in cargo space, offering 150 cubic feet, surpassing competitors like the Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey. However, accessing this space required removing the second-row seats, which could be cumbersome with the bench option. The third row folded seamlessly into the floor, but getting into the backseat was challenging due to the awkward folding of the second-row seat cushion. Toyota offered mobility access features, such as the Auto Access Seat, making it easier for those needing mobility conversions.

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. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free version. The X3's interior was spacious, offering ample headroom and legroom for all passengers. The front row featured real buttons and dials, complementing the main touchscreen and reducing the learning curve for new users.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna's base L trim came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, supporting Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay. Standard tech features included Bluetooth connectivity, five USB ports, and a WiFi hotspot with a 6-month trial. The Limited trim added navigation and a JBL 10-speaker premium audio system. The Driver Easy Speak intercom system allowed the driver to communicate with rear passengers without raising their voice.

The 2021 BMW X3 featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use. It came standard with Apple CarPlay, 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 Toyota Sienna came standard with the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P) suite, including lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and dynamic cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring was optional on lower trims and standard on XLE and Limited trims. The Sienna earned five stars from the NHTSA and a top rating of Good from the IIHS in various crash tests.

The 2021 BMW X3 included standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. It also offered blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and a head-up display.