2021 BMW X3 vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

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 refined BMW's small SUV formula, offering an exterior and interior presence reminiscent of larger, more expensive BMW models. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while the interior featured the brand's signature cold, mechanical styling. Although not as aesthetically pleasing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dashboard was more functional. Trims for the 2021 X3 included the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, with the high-performance X3 M covered separately. 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 included genuine leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a hands-free power liftgate, among others. The M40i trim added 19-inch alloy wheels, 14-way power-adjustable front seats, unique exterior styling, and an M Sport suspension.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, continuing from its 2021 redesign, aimed to blend SUV style with minivan functionality. Toyota's commitment to the minivan segment was evident in the Sienna's design, which featured a macho front end and re-engineered door hinges and slides to conceal the slider channel. The Sienna's profile was assertive, with standard 17-inch wheels on base models and up to 20-inch wheels on upper trims. Inside, the Sienna avoided the typical minivan feel with an uncluttered front cabin design and ample storage throughout. The second and third rows offered comfortable, roomy seating, with available second-row captain's chairs and a standard 60/40-split third-row bench that stored away easily. The Sienna's cargo space was impressive, with 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101 cubic feet behind the first row. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear tailgate with foot-motion triggers added convenience for families.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains to suit different driving preferences. 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 combined a turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering 288 horsepower and a 17-mile electric-only range. The plug-in hybrid could be recharged in about 3.5 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger or nearly 12 hours with a 120-volt outlet. For those seeking a performance-oriented experience, the M40i trim offered a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, providing robust acceleration and responsive cornering. The high-performance X3 M model boasted a 473-horsepower engine, catering to drivers with a need for speed and family space.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came exclusively with a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. The AWD system added a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, simplifying the mechanical setup. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), offering smooth and efficient power delivery. Drivers could select from four drive modes: Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport. The Sienna's handling was surprisingly good for a minivan, thanks to the Toyota Next Generation Architecture (TNGA) platform's front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension. The Sienna Hybrid achieved impressive fuel economy ratings, with the EPA estimating 36 mpg city/highway/combined for FWD models and 35 mpg city/highway/combined for AWD models. The 288-volt nickel metal-hydride battery pack was tucked under the front seats and came with a 10-year/150,000-mile warranty.

The 2021 BMW X3 provided ample cargo space, with up to 62.7 cubic feet available when the rear seats were folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with the rear seats in use. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free power liftgate available as an option. The X3's interior was spacious, offering plenty of headroom and legroom for front-row passengers 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 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in cargo capacity and versatility, capable of carrying a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. The sliding second row added flexibility for loading luggage and freight, with cargo measurements of 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101 cubic feet behind the first row. The Sienna also had a 3,500-pound maximum towing capacity. The standard 60/40-split third-row bench stored away easily, and each row featured storage cubbies and cupholders. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear tailgate with foot-motion triggers added convenience for families.

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. The combination of touch operation and the iDrive dial in the center console catered to different user preferences. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto available as an option. Other options included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. Gesture control was also available, allowing basic controls through hand movements.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna featured a 9-inch touchscreen standard across all trims, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM, and multiple USB ports. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not available. The Sienna came with a one-year trial of Safety Connect and Remote Connect telematics services, a 10-year trial of Service Connect, and a three-month trial of AT&T WiFi Connect. Bluetooth hands-free and audio streaming were standard, with Qi wireless phone charging available on higher trims. Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker setup on the LE to a 12-speaker JBL system on higher trims. A rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display was available on XLE and above. The Sienna also offered a color multi-information display, with a 10-inch head-up display available on Platinum trims. Limited and Platinum models could upgrade to a digital rearview mirror, providing a clear view of the road behind.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, 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 2022 Toyota Sienna received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite included adaptive cruise control, Lane Tracing Assist, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and traffic sign recognition. The Sienna also featured the Star Safety System, 10 airbags, multiple LATCH connectors, a rear-seat reminder system, tire-pressure monitoring, and an inflator kit. A spare tire was available, mounted in the cargo space wall for safety and convenience.