2021 BMW X3 vs 2021 Honda CR-V

The third-generation BMW X3, introduced in 2018, received significant updates by 2020, including the addition of a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. BMW's effort to produce a truly refined small SUV was evident in this generation, reflecting a design aesthetic closer to the larger BMW X5. The exterior design of the X3 exuded sophistication and echoed the styling of higher-end BMW models. Inside, the X3’s interior was consistent with the BMW lineup, characterized by a cold, mechanical design that's functional but less visually appealing compared to competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class.

The 2021 BMW X3 was available in multiple trims: sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, with the high-performance X3 M as a separate review. Standard features on the sDrive30i and xDrive30i 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 comprised genuine leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a hands-free power liftgate among others. The M40i stood out with 19-inch alloy wheels, 14-way power-adjustable front seats, unique exterior styling, and an M Sport suspension.

The Honda CR-V of 2021 didn't stand out much in its styling, closely resembling many other compact crossovers on the market. The uniformity in design across the segment was notable, with only minor details such as the grille and some chromed plastic features distinguishing the CR-V. With eight color options largely comprising various shades of gray, black, and white, the CR-V's exterior palette wasn't particularly exciting, with the more vibrant colors like Aegean Blue Metallic and Radiant Red Metallic being limited to higher trims.

Inside, the CR-V offered black, gray, and ivory cloth or leather upholstery, depending on the trim. Higher trims included wood panels and chrome details for a more upscale look. Seating was angular and modern, with sharper details compared to some competitors. On the whole, vehicles like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson were noted for offering more distinctive styling, especially in mid-tier trims.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a choice between several powertrains. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i were equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produced 248 horsepower, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i featured rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i offered all-wheel drive. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid model delivered 288 hp, providing brisk acceleration, particularly at low speeds, with a 17-mile electric-only range.

For those seeking performance, the M40i was the go-to option, featuring a 382-hp twin-turbo inline-six engine that delivered robust acceleration and responsive handling. The ultimate performance model, the X3 M, boasted 473 hp, catering to those needing both speed and space.

The Honda CR-V’s powertrain was consistent across non-hybrid trims, featuring a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a smooth yet unremarkable acceleration profile, clocking in around 7.8 seconds for a 0-60 mph sprint. All trims used a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which maintained constant engine revs during acceleration, lacking the engagement found in some competitors with traditional automatic transmissions.

AWD was available as an option, while FWD was standard. The CR-V rode on a unitized body structure with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear setup, ensuring a balanced ride quality that remained competitive but not exceptional in the segment.

The BMW X3 was renowned for its practicality in the luxury SUV segment, offering 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Even with the rear seats upright, it provided a respectable 28.7 cubic feet. A standard power liftgate and optional hands-free power liftgate further enhanced its user-friendliness. The cabin was spacious, accommodating adults comfortably in both the front and rear seats, and featured an intuitive layout with real buttons and dials complementing the touchscreen.

The Honda CR-V excelled in functional design, epitomizing utility with its generous interior space. It boasted 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume, outperforming rivals like the Toyota RAV4. Total cargo space was impressive at 75.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Cargo access varied by trim, with base models requiring manual operation of the tailgate, while higher trims featured power or hands-free power tailgates. Expansive cargo capacity combined with versatile access options underscored the CR-V's practicality.

Technology the 2021 BMW X3 was highlighted by a standard 10.2-inch touchscreen running BMW’s iDrive system, praised for its usability via both touch and a central control dial. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, though Android Auto was optional. Additional tech options spanned a wireless charging pad, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. Gesture control was available, allowing certain functions to be operated by hand movements, though unintentional activations could occur.

The CR-V's base LX trim had limited tech with a small 5-inch screen and Bluetooth connectivity. However, higher trims offered a 7-inch HD touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The audio system improved with each trim, culminating in the Touring’s 300-watt system with a subwoofer. From the EX trim upwards, Sirius XM and HD radio were included, with the Touring trim offering satellite navigation. Charging ports were abundant in higher trims, with the Touring adding a wireless phone charger.

The X3 came equipped with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. Standard equipment also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety tech comprised adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, adaptive headlights, and a head-up display.

Safety was a standout for the CR-V, earning a five-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. It missed the Top Safety Pick+ rating due to headlight performance and newer side crash test results. Honda's comprehensive safety approach was notable for making its suite of advanced safety features standard across all trims, excluding the LX’s lack of blind-spot monitoring. Standard features included a rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, road departure mitigation, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams.