2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser, in its final year of production, offered a nostalgic nod to its storied past with the Heritage Edition trim. However, the standard model, which was the focus of this review, presented a more subdued exterior in Magnetic Gray paint and Terra leather upholstery. Its design was reminiscent of a first-generation Toyota Highlander, with oversized headlights and taillights, and an abundance of chrome. Inside, the Land Cruiser combined Toyota's parts-bin switchgear with Lexus-inspired design elements, featuring high-quality materials and a traditional hand-operated parking brake. The overall experience was akin to a journey back in time, offering a blend of luxury and nostalgia.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 showcased a modern and aggressive exterior design with a slightly larger kidney grille and adaptive full LED headlights. The rear featured new taillights with a distinctive pincer claw shape, while the updated bumper and exhaust tips added to its contemporary appeal. The X3 was available in four variants, with the M40i model offering additional performance features. Inside, the X3 boasted a clean and efficient design, with dark oak wood trim, power-adjustable sport seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The interior was both comfortable and practical, with ample space for passengers and cargo.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser was powered by a 381-horsepower 5.7-liter V8 engine, delivering 401 pound-feet of torque. Its eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel-drive system provided impressive off-road capabilities, aided by features like a Torsen limited-slip differential and Multi-Terrain Select traction assist. Despite its nearly 3-ton weight, the Land Cruiser offered a refined driving experience, with a quiet cabin and smooth handling. However, its fuel economy was less than stellar, averaging 14.7 mpg in testing.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains, with the sDrive30i and xDrive30i models featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower. The M40i variant added a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, generating 382 horsepower. The X3's performance was commendable, with the M40i achieving a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. While the base models provided a balanced driving experience, the M40i delivered a more exhilarating ride. However, the mild-hybrid system did not significantly improve fuel economy, with the M40i rated at 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser's interior was luxurious, with premium leather upholstery and heated and ventilated front seats. The three-passenger second-row bench seat offered ample space, while the third-row seat was less comfortable for adults on longer trips. The Land Cruiser provided 16.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 82.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. Despite its dated appearance, the interior was functional, with a four-zone climate control system and numerous air vents.

The 2022 BMW X3 excelled in comfort and practicality, with seating for five and a spacious cargo area. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40-split, allowing for versatile storage options. The X3's interior was well-appointed, with SensaTec faux-leather seats and an upgraded Vernasca leather option. The redesigned center console and larger infotainment screen improved ergonomics, while the power tailgate and optional hands-free opening added convenience. Overall, the X3 offered a comfortable and user-friendly cabin experience.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser's technology was a throwback to simpler times, with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system that lacked modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was straightforward, with large buttons and knobs for easy operation. The rear-seat entertainment system was dated, offering DVD playback and HDMI connections. The JBL Synthesis audio system provided decent sound quality but fell short of high-end competitors.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, offering a 10.25-inch infotainment screen and a host of connected features. The system included navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. An optional Live Cockpit Professional package expanded the screens to 12.3 inches and added cloud-based navigation. The X3's technology was customizable and user-friendly, with multiple control options and a premium Harman Kardon audio system available on the M40i model.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P) driving assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacked more advanced features like stop-and-go adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. With 10 airbags and a robust build, the Land Cruiser offered a sense of security, though crash-test ratings were unavailable.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA and offered a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard equipment included adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and active blind-spot monitoring. The available Driving Assistant Professional Package added advanced features like traffic jam assistance and active lane-keep assist. The X3's safety systems were extensive and up-to-date, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers.