2021 BMW X3 vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received several updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. The redesign refined the X3's formula, giving it an exterior and interior presence akin to larger, more expensive BMW models. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized X5, while its interior featured the same cold, mechanical styling found across the BMW lineup. Though not as aesthetically pleasing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dash was more functional.

The 2021 BMW X5, a part of BMW's true SUV range, delivered on expectations with its proportions and signature BMW design elements. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice between xLine and M Sport styling, each offering distinct exterior finishes. The interior, while sharing many elements with other BMW models, was not shoddy, featuring plenty of leather and soft-touch materials. M Sport models included unique styling elements like an M sports steering wheel and model-exclusive trim strips.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i had rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i featured all-wheel drive. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 hp and had a 17-mile electric-only range, recharging in about 3.5 hours with a 240-volt Level 2 charger. The M40i trim boasted a 382-hp twin-turbo inline-six, providing robust acceleration and responsive cornering. For those seeking extreme performance, the X3 M offered 473 hp.

The 2021 BMW X5 provided several powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base X5 sDrive40i/xDrive40i featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque. The X5 M50i came with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8, delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. The X5 M offered 600 hp, increasing to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The new X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid achieved 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, with a 30-mile all-electric range. However, the X5's steering dynamics were less engaging than other BMW SUVs, and the vehicle's handling at higher speeds was not as connected.

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 the seats in use. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free power liftgate. The X3 offered ample space for passengers, with plenty of 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.

The 2021 BMW X5 made good use of space, with cupholders positioned at the front of the center console and a wireless phone charging pad out of the driver's line of sight. The seating was spacious and comfortable for short trips, though the front seats felt hard after a few hours. The rear seats were comfortable for kids and adults, with an available third row. The X5's split liftgate was easy to operate, and the vehicle height adjustment button on the lower liftgate aided in loading cargo. The X5 xDrive45e offered slightly less cargo space than the traditional X5, but the difference was negligible for most buyers.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, which was user-friendly compared to other luxury systems. It included standard Apple CarPlay, with optional Android Auto, wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. Optional gesture control allowed basic controls through hand movements, though it could result in false positives for those who talk with their hands.

The 2021 BMW X5 featured a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The standard features list included a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, voice recognition, Bluetooth, five USB ports, navigation, HD Radio, satellite radio, automatic climate control, proximity key, and a panoramic moonroof. Optional upgrades included remote start, a head-up display, quad-zone automatic climate control, a wireless smartphone charger, massaging seats, a Wi-Fi hot spot, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, a 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system, rear sunshades, and a dual-panel panoramic roof.

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

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, fatigue and focus alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, the adaptive cruise control system had issues reacting to stopped traffic and lane-keeping functionality was inconsistent in sunny or rainy conditions. The X5 received nearly all Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.