2021 BMW X3 vs 2021 Subaru Outback

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. This generation of the X3 was a significant refinement, offering an exterior and interior presence akin to larger, more expensive BMW models. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while the interior featured BMW's signature cold, mechanical styling. Although not as aesthetically pleasing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dashboard was more functional. The 2021 X3 came in various 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 Outback, redesigned for the 2020 model year, maintained a familiar and comfortable feel reminiscent of older Subaru models. The interior, especially in higher trims, was fresher compared to the smaller 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. The base trim featured two 7-inch touchscreens, while Premium and above trims boasted an 11.6-inch portrait display. Quality was evident in the materials used, with higher trims offering two-tone leather upholstery and contrast stitching. The Onyx Edition XT featured gray and black StarTex upholstery with lime green stitching, adding a touch of flair. The exterior design remained smooth and plain, with high gray cladding for protection. For 2021, adaptive LED headlights became standard, and a new brown paint option was introduced. The Outback's lifted wagon design made it a great alternative to typical crossovers or SUVs.

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 had a 17-mile electric-only range, with recharging times of 3.5 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger or almost 12 hours with a 120-volt outlet. For those seeking performance, the M40i trim featured a 382-hp twin-turbo inline-six engine, offering robust acceleration and responsive cornering. The X3 M performance model boasted an impressive 473 horsepower.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's base engine was a 2.5-liter flat-four producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This powertrain struggled with the Outback's weight, resulting in slow and noisy performance. The XT trims, available on Limited, Touring, and Onyx Edition, featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, providing a significant performance boost. The XT engine was quieter, smoother, and more powerful than the older 3.6-liter flat-six it replaced. Fuel economy for the XT was slightly lower than the base engine, but the performance gains were worth it. The Outback's handling was designed for comfort, with long-travel springs and 8.7 inches of ground clearance for off-road capability. Subaru's electronically-variable AWD system provided excellent traction and stability, with X-Mode optimizing performance for tough conditions.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use, making it one of the most spacious in its segment. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free power liftgate. The X3 provided ample headroom and legroom for all passengers, with a commanding driving position for the front row. The interior featured real buttons and dials to complement the touchscreen, enhancing usability.

The 2021 Subaru Outback provided 76 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 33 cubic feet with them raised. The cargo area was wide and flat, free of intrusive elements. The Outback offered ample headroom and legroom in all seating positions, with excellent outward visibility. Storage options included large map pockets, bottle holders, and handy pockets in the front center console. However, some features like push-button start and rear climate vents were only standard on higher trims. The Outback's best feature was the standard roof rails with integrated crossbars, which could be easily swiveled and locked in place.

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 offered both touch and dial operation, catering to different user preferences. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto as an option. Other available features included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. Gesture control was also an option, though it could result in false positives for those who talk with their hands.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system looked dated, with graphics and typefaces reminiscent of older technology. However, it offered modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The optional navigation system was more modern-looking. Subaru EyeSight, standard on all trims, included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking. The system relied on forward-looking cameras, which could be less effective in certain conditions compared to systems that also use radar.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features such as 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 Subaru Outback featured a stronger and stiffer chassis, with standard driver’s knee and passenger seat-cushion airbags. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was optional on Premium and standard on higher trims. Rear emergency braking was optional on the Onyx Edition XT and standard on the Limited 2.5 and Touring trims. The Outback earned a 2020 IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" award and received top ratings in all crash tests. The NHTSA gave the 2021 Outback an overall five-star rating, with four stars for the front passenger in a frontal crash and four stars for the rollover test.