2021 BMW X3 vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was designed with the rugged appearance of a traditional SUV, markedly different from the more approachable styling of previous RAV4 generations and other compact crossovers on the market. With its boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and scowling front end, the RAV4 exuded an aggressive look that set it apart as more than just an ordinary vehicle, despite being built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform which is shared with sedans, hatchbacks, and the Toyota Sienna minivan. Specifically, the RAV4 Adventure model featured an Ice Edge roof, orange interior accents, and a retro appearance, while the TRD Off-Road variant included standard LED fog lights, matte black 18-inch wheels, and specific suspension tuning for enhanced off-road capability. The interior mirrored its rugged exterior with large rubberized knobs and door handles, though the material quality didn't always match the upscale vibe expected in higher trims, as even the range-topping RAV4 Limited lacked real leather upholstery.

On the other hand, the design of the 2021 BMW X3 was a refined evolution of the BMW aesthetic. Introduced in 2018, the third generation received updates in 2020, including a new plug-in hybrid variant and M performance models. The new X3 bore the strong, muscular exterior of a downsized X5, complete with a cold, functional interior styling consistent across BMW’s range. Despite not being as visually innovative as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's interior was highly functional. The X3’s sDrive30i and xDrive30i trims came with 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 10.2-inch infotainment system among other features, while higher trims and optional packages allowed for added luxuries like genuine leather, panoramic sunroof, and heated seats. These options lent the X3 an easily customizable luxury feel that could rival more expensive BMW models.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 featured a single "Dynamic Force" 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, this engine was noted for its impressive thermal efficiency and high-revving nature, similar to that of racing engines. However, the transmission struggled to keep pace, often hesitating and slow to shift, detracting from the driving experience. The steering, while responsive, offered little feedback, making for a detached driving feel. Despite the sporty engine, the overall driving dynamics of the RAV4 were disappointingly ordinary. Nonetheless, it excelled in highway comfort with a quiet cabin and a smooth suspension setup adept at handling road imperfections. Off-road readiness was better on the Adventure and TRD Off-Road models, which boasted torque-vectoring AWD and 8.6 inches of ground clearance, as well as a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

Conversely, the 2021 BMW X3 offered multiple engine choices to cater to various performance preferences. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i trims were equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 248 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid variant offered a peppier 288 horsepower, with an electric-only range of 17 miles and a fairly quick recharge time of 3.5 hours on a 240-volt charger. True performance enthusiasts could opt for the M40i trim, which boasted a robust 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, significantly enhancing acceleration and cornering prowess. The pinnacle of performance in the X3 lineup was the X3 M, churning out a staggering 473 horsepower for an exhilarating driving experience. All these attributes made the X3 a more thrilling option for performance-minded buyers while maintaining practicality for everyday use.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a spacious interior with commendable headroom thanks to its tall, upright roofline, and provided good visibility due to its large windows. However, rear legroom was somewhat limited compared to competitors. The front seats were form-fitting and comfortable, particularly in the TRD Off-Road trim, but the rear seats were flat and hard, making them less ideal for long journeys. The RAV4 featured 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up, which was above average though still behind segment leaders like the Honda CR-V. Loading was facilitated by a wide aperture, although the higher cargo area lip could be a slight inconvenience.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X3 impressed with its spaciousness and practicality. With the rear seats in use, the X3 provided a generous 28.7 cubic feet of cargo space, which expanded to an impressive 62.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded—one of the best in its class. The X3's front row offered ample head and legroom along with a commanding driving position. The rear seats were also comfortably spacious, suitable for adults even on long trips. The X3 was equipped with practical storage solutions, real buttons and dials for ease of use, and the added convenience of a power liftgate, with an optional hands-free feature.

Toyota equipped the 2021 RAV4 with a reasonably user-friendly infotainment system, including standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Most models featured a 7-inch touchscreen, with higher trims offering up to a 9-inch display. Multiple USB ports were available across both rows. Despite its intuitive interface, the system wasn't particularly flashy, and Toyota did not offer features like a head-up display on non-hybrid models. The available JBL premium audio system provided an upgrade for audiophiles, though tech-savvy users might find the overall offering modest compared to competitors.

The 2021 BMW X3, on the other hand, came standard with a high-resolution 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its straightforward functionality. The iDrive system combined touch operation with a central console dial, catering to different user preferences. Standard Apple CarPlay integration ensured seamless smartphone connectivity, though Android Auto was only optional. Available tech features included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, a premium Harman Kardon stereo system with 16 speakers, and even gesture control, which allowed basic commands through hand movements. This array of options made the X3 a more appealing choice for tech-enthusiastic buyers.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 earned favorable safety ratings, including a "Top Safety Pick" title from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It came standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 package, offering features such as forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, road-sign recognition, and lane-tracing assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, reverse automatic emergency braking, and park assist, plus an optional 360-degree camera system.

The 2021 BMW X3 also boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety 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 upgrades included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, responsive headlights that turn with the road, and a head-up display, offering additional safety and driver convenience.