2021 BMW X3 vs 2021 Subaru Forester

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, had undergone several updates by 2020, including the addition of a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation of the X3 was a significant refinement, offering a luxury level of refinement that BMW had previously struggled to achieve in its smaller SUVs. The X3's exterior mirrored the larger X5, providing a downsized yet sophisticated appearance. Inside, the X3 featured a cold, mechanical interior styling typical of BMW, which, while not as visually appealing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, offered a more functional dashboard. 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 covered 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 Subaru Forester, redesigned for the 2019 model year, retained a styling that appeared older due to its carryover design from the previous generation. The most noticeable change was the distinctive cross-shaped taillights. Subaru seemed to have adopted an "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" approach, maintaining the boxy, upright shape that appealed to many SUV shoppers. The Forester's Base trim appeared plain with 17-inch steel wheels, but it offered a clean and unpretentious look compared to other compact crossovers. The Sport models added orange striping, a rear spoiler, and black 18-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its visual appeal. Built on the Subaru Global Platform, the Forester shared underpinnings with other Subaru models, maintaining its rugged SUV image. Inside, the Forester's no-nonsense interior was designed to withstand years of use, with the Sport trim adding orange accents. Cloth upholstery was standard on lower trims, while leather was available on higher trims, with an All-Weather Package adding heated features.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the sDrive30i and xDrive30i, both 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 performance edge, the M40i offered a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, delivering robust acceleration and enhanced cornering abilities. The X3 M performance model, with 473 horsepower, catered to those with a need for speed and family space.

The 2021 Subaru Forester was powered by a single 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) with a manual mode and paddle shifters on certain trims. The engine's boxer configuration provided a lower center of gravity, contributing to stability. Subaru quoted a 1,500-pound towing capacity, with Trailer Stability Assist as standard. While adequate for most situations, the engine lacked the thrust needed for confident highway merging and overtaking. The Forester's suspension was tuned for comfort, resulting in a soft ride with noticeable body roll in corners and bounce on uneven surfaces. All-wheel drive was standard, with X-Mode enhancing traction on various surfaces. Sport models featured Dual X-Mode for different terrains, and higher trims included hill-descent control and 8.7 inches of ground clearance for better off-road capability.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered impressive interior space, with 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 a hands-free option available. The X3 provided ample headroom and legroom for all passengers, with a commanding driving position in the front. The interior featured real buttons and dials, complementing the touchscreen and reducing the learning curve for new drivers.

The 2021 Subaru Forester provided above-average headroom and legroom in both rows, thanks to its tall, flat roofline, which also enhanced visibility and cabin brightness. Cargo space was generous, with 35.4 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 76.1 cubic feet with them folded. While it lacked a sliding second-row bench, a power liftgate was available on higher trims. The Forester's interior included decently sized cupholders and a reasonably sized center console, though the phone-storage cubby was small, and wireless charging was not offered. A power-adjustable driver's seat was available from the Premium trim upwards. The Forester's controls were user-friendly, though the steering wheel had numerous buttons that could be confusing.

The 2021 BMW X3 featured a standard 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use. The system combined touch operation with a central dial, catering to different user preferences. Apple CarPlay was standard, while Android Auto was optional. Additional options included wireless charging, a digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon stereo. Gesture control was also available, allowing basic controls through hand movements.

The 2021 Subaru Forester came with the Subaru Starlink infotainment system, featuring a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and USB ports. Sport models upgraded to an 8-inch touchscreen and Harman Kardon audio, with navigation and rear USB ports on higher trims. The system was user-friendly, with well-designed graphics and backup analog controls, though the screen was slow to boot. The Forester also included secondary displays for additional information, though the setup seemed overly complex.

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 parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Subaru Forester excelled in safety, earning the highest "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with EyeSight, a suite of driver-assist features using camera-based technology, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Subaru's DriverFocus system monitored driver attention, enhancing safety. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and reverse automatic braking, with clear warning lights for blind-spot alerts.