2021 BMW X3 vs 2021 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, had undergone significant updates by 2020, including the addition of a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation of the X3 was a refined version of its predecessors, offering a luxury level of refinement that BMW had previously struggled to achieve in its smaller SUVs. The exterior of the X3 mirrored the larger BMW X5, while the interior maintained the brand's signature cold, mechanical styling. Although not as visually appealing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dashboard was noted for its functionality. The 2021 X3 was available in several trims, including the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, with the high-performance X3 M reviewed separately. Standard features included 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 10.2-inch infotainment system, with numerous options for added luxury and convenience.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover, once a utilitarian vehicle, had evolved into a symbol of luxury and status. Starting at $92,000, the Range Rover offered a wide range of powertrains and personalization options, with the potential to exceed $250,000 for a fully loaded long-wheelbase version. The HSE Westminster special edition, priced at $106,715, featured a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine and standard luxury features. Despite its age, the Range Rover's design remained timeless, with hallmark cues like blacked-out pillars and clean styling. Inside, the Range Rover exuded luxury with its high-contrast Ivory interior and mid-century modern ambiance. However, the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system was less intuitive than newer systems, requiring users to adapt to its quirks.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains to suit different driving preferences. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i models were equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i featured rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i came with all-wheel drive, providing solid performance for city and highway driving. 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 a more exhilarating driving experience, the M40i trim boasted a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, offering robust acceleration and enhanced cornering abilities. The X3 M performance model, with 473 horsepower, catered to speed enthusiasts needing family space.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover provided a diverse array of powertrain options, including turbodiesel V6, supercharged V8, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid choices. The HSE Westminster edition featured a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine, generating 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, complemented by an eight-speed automatic transmission and electric motor assistance. Standard four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case ensured the Range Rover's off-road prowess, supported by Terrain Response 2 traction control. Despite its off-road capabilities, the test vehicle primarily navigated well-traveled trails, maintaining its pristine condition. The Range Rover's adaptive air suspension provided a smooth, wafting ride, while its high driving position offered commanding views. However, the steering was slow and syrupy, and the vehicle's weight and center of gravity contributed to side-to-side wallow on uneven roads. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 20 mpg, with the test vehicle averaging 18.5 mpg.

The 2021 BMW X3 excelled in interior space and practicality. With the rear seats folded, it offered up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space, ranking among the best in the small luxury SUV segment. Even with the rear seats in use, it provided a generous 28.7 cubic feet. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free version available. The X3's cabin 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 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode, aiding entry and exit, especially for shorter passengers. The front seats were decadently comfortable, wrapped in quality leather upholstery, though the touch-sensing controls for the power windows were poorly located. The second row, however, lacked comfort, with insufficient thigh support and a slouched seating position. Despite this, the back seat offered luxury features like quad-zone climate control and heated and ventilated seats. Storage space was limited, with dual glove compartments compensating for the small center-console bin. Luggage volume was also restricted, with a maximum of 59.8 cubic feet of cargo space. A button in the cargo area activated the suspension kneel function for easier loading.

The 2021 BMW X3 came equipped with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use compared to other luxury systems. The combination of touch operation and the iDrive dial catered to different user preferences. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto available as an option. 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 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured a fully digital instrumentation and infotainment system, rendered across three displays. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system, while not entirely intuitive, could be navigated by those familiar with smartphones and tablets. However, using the dual 10-inch touchscreens while driving was distracting, and the head-up display was not visible with polarized sunglasses. Setting up the system to personal preferences was recommended to minimize distractions. The Range Rover also offered a waterproof Activity Key wristband, allowing the key fob to be left inside the vehicle during activities. An iGuide smartphone app served as a digital owner's manual, assisting with InControl functions.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. It also included 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 Land Rover Range Rover included standard safety features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and front and rear parking sensors. Additional driver aids were optional, with packages like the Drive Pack and Drive Pro Pack offering adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, and high-speed automatic emergency braking. The Park Pack and Park Pro Pack added features like 360-degree parking sensors and semi-autonomous parking capability. The HSE Westminster Edition included the Drive Pro and Park packages, with the technology performing well overall, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond in certain situations.