2021 BMW X3 vs 2021 Ford Expedition

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received significant updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation of the X3 refined BMW's small SUV formula, offering an exterior and interior presence reminiscent of larger, more expensive BMW models. The X3's exterior mirrors a downsized BMW X5, while the interior features BMW's signature cold, mechanical styling. Although not as aesthetically pleasing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dashboard is more functional. Trims for the 2021 X3 included sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, with the high-performance X3 M covered separately. Standard features included 18-inch alloy wheels, push-button start, synthetic leather upholstery, tri-zone climate control, a 10.2-inch infotainment system, navigation, and 10-way power-adjustable front seats. Optional features included genuine leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2021 Ford Expedition Platinum, the most luxurious version of the Expedition lineup, was a sight for sore eyes after a restless redeye flight. The Platinum trim capped a lineup that started with the XL STX and included the XLT, Limited, and King Ranch. Upgrading to the extended-length Expedition MAX added extra cargo space. The test vehicle featured Magnetic gray paint, 4WD, a Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package, an electronic limited-slip differential, and second-row captain’s chairs, totaling $80,510. Despite its plush interior, the Expedition struggled to accommodate all passengers' luggage, highlighting the utility of minivans. The Expedition Platinum boasted an intricately detailed chrome grille, massive 22-inch machined-face aluminum wheels, and brightwork, making it a good-looking vehicle. The extended-length MAX version could have solved the cargo issue, offering more space for passengers and luggage. The Expedition's leather-lined cabin, sourced from the F-150 parts bin, provided comfort but included hard plastic elements, reminding occupants of its origins.

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

The 2021 Ford Expedition came equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and either rear-wheel drive or 4WD. The engine produced 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque in most trims, while the Platinum trim received a boost to 400 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. Towing capacity ranged from 9,000 to 9,300 pounds, depending on the specification. The Expedition's acceleration impressed, even with a full load of passengers and cargo. The twin-turbo V6 emitted a pleasant engine note, and the transmission operated smoothly. The Platinum's 22-inch wheels affected ride quality, transmitting road shock into the cabin, but the four-wheel independent suspension kept the SUV stable. The FX4 Off-Road Package, available on XLT and Limited models, added off-road capabilities, including a two-speed transfer case, electronic limited-slip rear differential, and off-road shocks. The Expedition Platinum averaged 17.1 mpg on the evaluation loop, with an EPA rating of 19 mpg in combined driving.

The 2021 BMW X3 provided 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 rear seats in use, it offered 28.7 cubic feet. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free power liftgate available as an option. The X3's interior was spacious, 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 2021 Ford Expedition excelled in comfort and utility, despite its regular-length model's inability to transport more than five people and their luggage simultaneously. The Expedition MAX offered more cargo space, with 34.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 73.3 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 121.5 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Expedition's independent rear suspension ensured comfort in every seating position, and the power-deploying running boards made entry easy. The test vehicle's front seats offered a massage function, adding to the comfort. Storage for odds and ends was plentiful, but the cargo floor's high liftover height could be challenging when loading heavy items.

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 in the center console, catering to different user preferences. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto available as an option. Other options included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. Gesture control was also available, allowing basic controls through hand movements, though it could result in false positives for those who talk with their hands.

The 2021 Ford Expedition featured the Sync 3 infotainment system, which, despite its age, remained user-friendly. The 8-inch touchscreen display, however, appeared small and sometimes responded slowly to inputs. Sync 3 included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, FordPass Connect services, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and a navigation system. Amazon Alexa compatibility and enhanced voice recognition were also part of the system. The test vehicle had a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system and wireless smartphone charging but lacked the available dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system, which included dual viewing screens, a DVD player, gaming system inputs, and streaming capabilities.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features, including 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 Ford Expedition, with a minimum curb weight of 5,368 pounds, had a safety advantage over most vehicles. The NHTSA awarded the Expedition a five-star overall crash-test rating, though the RWD model received a three-star rollover-resistance rating, while the 4WD model earned four stars. Standard safety features included Ford Co-Pilot360, which offered forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beam headlights. Limited trim and above offered adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, a semi-autonomous parking assistance system, and a 360-degree surround-view camera system. The lane-keeping technology proved helpful on narrow freeways, though Ford's more advanced BlueCruise technology was not yet available.