2021 BMW X3 vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

The 2021 BMW X3, a third-generation model launched in 2018 and refined with updates in 2020, exhibited the exterior and interior qualities of a high-end luxury SUV in a smaller package. Its outward design closely mirrored the larger BMW X5, offering a sophisticated and sleek look that enhanced its road presence. On the inside, the X3 boasted cold, mechanical interior styling, true to BMW's style across its lineup. While it might not have captured the aesthetic appeal of the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3’s dashboard was praised for its functionality.

Trim options for the 2021 BMW X3 included the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid. Each trim came well-equipped with standard features like 18-inch alloy wheels, push-button start, synthetic leather upholstery, tri-zone climate control, and a 10.2-inch infotainment system with navigation. Higher trims brought additional luxuries, such as genuine leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, hands-free power liftgate, and heated and ventilated front seats. The M40i, in particular, featured 19-inch alloy wheels, unique exterior styling, and an M Sport suspension, reflecting its higher-performance nature.

Contrastingly, the 2021 Toyota Highlander presented itself as far from boring with its distinctive styling. Its wide headlights, long hood, and assertive trapezoidal grille gave it a bold and family-friendly look. Alongside, the Highlander showcased a character line similar to that of the Supra sports car. Its taillights echoed Lexus designs, albeit without the vertical element. For 2021, the addition of the XSE trim, with its aggressive front fascia, 20-inch wheels with black accents, and sportier appearance, aimed to attract those seeking a dynamic-looking family hauler.

Our review vehicle, a Highlander Limited, featured upscale chrome roof rails and accents, lending it an elegant look. The interior shone with high-quality fit and finish, sporting tan leather seats and dark brown trim, accented by wood details. While the Highlander hinted at a sport-luxury crossover ideal with the XSE trim, it excelled in delivering luxurious comfort and practical family-friendly features.

The 2021 BMW X3 catered to diverse performance expectations. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i trims featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine offering 248 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the sDrive30i had rear-wheel drive, the xDrive30i provided all-wheel drive. The plug-in hybrid xDrive30e churned out 288 horsepower and boasted a 17-mile electric-only range after a 3.5-hour charge using a 240-volt Level 2 charger. The real powerhouse in the lineup was the M40i with its 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, delivering robust acceleration and responsive handling. The X3 M, for those desiring even more power, offered a staggering 473 horsepower.

In comparison, the 2021 Toyota Highlander was equipped with a familiar 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Buyers could choose either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The Highlander Hybrid, reviewed separately, catered to those leaning towards more eco-friendly driving. Despite not winning drag races, the Highlander’s V6 provided reliable and smooth acceleration suitable for daily commutes and highway merging, performing comparably to the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride.

While the Highlander exhibited some lumbering through corners due to its soft suspension, the XSE trim aimed to enhance handling with higher-rated springs, retuned shock absorbers, power steering adjustments, and a rear stabilizer bar. However, it could not match the sporty DNA of performance-focused SUVs like the Ford Explorer ST.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered impressive interior space and cargo capacity. With the rear seats up, it provided a generous 28.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to a notable 62.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, ranking among the best in its segment. The interior layout ensured ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, contributing to a comfortable driving experience. Real buttons and dials complemented the main touchscreen, easing usability for various occupants.

Conversely, the 2021 Toyota Highlander aimed to excel in family functionality. The front cabin’s set of shelves served as convenient storage for large cell phones, while a wireless charging pad in trims above the LE added to the tech-savvy interior. Second-row passengers benefited from ample legroom, with sliding seats providing necessary space adjustments for third-row passengers. The rear seats were adequate for adults but required some compromise on comfort. A less favorable point was the ceiling-mounted rear-seat air vents, potentially uncomfortable for longer drives.

Cargo capacity in the Highlander included 16 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a substantial 84.3 cubic feet with both rows down. While this was commendable, it fell short compared to the X3 and other competitors like minivans.

The 2021 BMW X3 came well-equipped with a standard 10.2-inch touchscreen running the user-friendly iDrive infotainment system. This system combined touch and dial operation, catering to preferences for both interaction styles. Apple CarPlay was standard, with Android Auto available as an option. Additional tech features included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a premium 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. An optional gesture control system provided futuristic convenience but could occasionally misinterpret hand movements.

In the 2021 Toyota Highlander, trims below the Limited featured an 8-inch touchscreen, while the Limited and Platinum trims offered an optional and standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, respectively. The larger screen impressed with its brightness and responsiveness but limited some apps to standard 8-inch dimensions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard across all trims, ensuring seamless smartphone integration. Although the JBL audio system provided good sound quality, it was not exceptionally impressive.