BMW X3 vs Toyota bZ

The 2026 Toyota bZ was available in XLE and Limited trims, offering both single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, with two battery size options. Models equipped with the larger battery commanded a higher price but delivered enhanced power, performance, and range, with prices ranging from $36,495 to $46,895, including the destination charge. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, transforming it into the XLE Plus for an additional $3,000. The total MSRP, including options like Heavy Metal paint and various mats, was $40,468. The 2026 bZ's design improvements, such as body-color trim, were well-received, although some colors retained the black overfender trim. Inside, the dashboard and center console were redesigned for a cleaner look, and the fabric seats featured an upscale pattern. The 14-inch center touchscreen integrated climate controls, which, despite initial concerns, proved user-friendly. However, the digital driver display's placement and size remained a drawback.

The 2026 BMW X3 30 xDrive started at $52,650, but the X3 M50, priced from $67,850, was the focus of the review. The test vehicle included numerous upgrades, such as Frozen Deep Grey paint, 21-inch wheels, and Merino leather upholstery, bringing the MSRP to $79,100. While the paint and leather exuded luxury, the cabin's austere design and illuminated grille surround were polarizing. The interior lighting was excellent at night, but the touch-sensing controls and general austerity felt cheap. BMW attempted to improve the interior with standard artificial leather on the dashboard and door panels. Despite these efforts, the X3's design was an acquired taste, and the high price tag was difficult to justify.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a range of powertrain options. The XLE with FWD featured a single electric motor and a 57.7-kWh battery, delivering 165 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles and an efficiency rating of 26 kWh/100 miles. The optional 74.7-kWh battery increased power to 224 hp and extended the range to 314 miles, while the Limited trim's range dropped to 299 miles. Dual-motor models, available only with the larger battery, produced 338 hp and offered varying ranges and efficiency ratings. The bZ's charging capabilities included compatibility with Tesla Superchargers and a CCS adapter. Efficiency tests showed the bZ exceeded EPA estimates in Eco mode but fell slightly short in Normal mode. The bZ's handling was agreeable for city driving, but its FWD configuration and tires limited its performance on winding roads.

The 2026 BMW X3 M50 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, producing 393 horsepower and 428 pound-feet of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. The M50 included performance enhancements like an M Sport rear differential and adaptive suspension. The base X3 30 xDrive's 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter engine was also sprightly, reaching 60 mph in six seconds. Both models came with AWD. The M50's engine was praised for its sound and speed, while the 48-volt mild hybrid system improved fuel efficiency. The X3 M50's ride was firm but not overly harsh, and its handling was aided by responsive steering and advanced parking technologies. The X3's towing capacity was notable, with the M50 capable of towing 4,850 pounds.

The 2026 Toyota bZ's skateboard-style EV platform and 8.1 inches of ground clearance made entry and exit easy. Both front seats offered standard height adjustment, with eight-way power adjustment in XLE and Limited trims. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with ventilated seats available in the Limited trim. The bZ lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage options. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed good legroom, though foot space was limited. Cargo space measured 27.7 cubic feet, expandable to 56.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2026 BMW X3 featured heated, power-adjustable front sport seats with Veganza upholstery, offering comfort and support. Rear passengers faced lower seat cushions and hard plastic frames on the front seatback storage nets. The panoramic glass sunroof provided natural light, and storage was generous, though lacking surface liners. Cargo space measured 31.5 cubic feet, expandable to 67.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. A temporary spare tire was included, a rarity in modern vehicles.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came with a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The driver display's placement and size were criticized, while the infotainment system was generally user-friendly but lacked a home screen for simultaneous data display. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with various connected service plans available. The Drive Connect system powered navigation and voice assistant features, which performed well in testing.

The 2026 BMW X3's dashboard was dominated by the BMW Curved Display, featuring a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Premium Package added a head-up display and a Harman Kardon sound system. The infotainment system offered cloud-based navigation, in-vehicle gaming, and more, but had issues with Guest mode and voice recognition. Apple CarPlay worked well, though there was a unique instance of audio playing through a smartphone speaker instead of the car's stereo.

The 2026 Toyota bZ was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including features like forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist added subtle braking and steering inputs. The Limited trim offered additional features like Traffic Jam Assist. The bZ's adaptive cruise control had inconsistent responses, and the driver monitoring system was overly sensitive. The IIHS rated the bZ's front-crash avoidance tech as Good, but the headlights received a Poor rating, and frontal-impact crash tests earned Acceptable ratings.

The 2026 BMW X3 included standard driver assistance features like forward collision warning and lane departure warning. The optional Driving Assistance Professional Package added advanced features like lane-centering assist and adaptive cruise control with hands-free traffic jam assist. The tech was generally refined, though there were issues with obstacle detection. The X3's crash-test ratings from the NHTSA were a mix of four- and five-star ratings, while the IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ rating.