Toyota Land Cruiser vs BMW X3

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser was available in two trim levels, with the base model named the 1958, a nod to the year it first hit the US market. This version sported a retro aesthetic with round headlights and basic features, priced at $58,195. However, the more popular choice was the Land Cruiser model, priced at $62,965, which offered a modern, upscale look with additional color options and a more refined interior. This version also included essential off-roading features and the option for a Premium Package, which added leather and advanced technology. Our test vehicle, equipped with the Premium Package, showcased a Heritage Blue and Grayscape paint job, 20-inch wheels, and a roof rack, bringing the total cost to $71,004.

The Land Cruiser's design emphasized functionality, with a traditional two-box SUV shape that maximized off-road capabilities and interior space. Its utilitarian interior featured traditional controls, and the Java-colored leather added a touch of elegance. The dual 12.3-inch digital screens enhanced its technological appeal. Compared to a Lexus RX, the Land Cruiser's steering-wheel controls were notably more intuitive. Despite its drab color options, the Land Cruiser's personality shone through its practical design and off-road prowess.

The 2026 BMW X3 30 xDrive started at $52,650, but our preferred build, with upgrades, reached nearly $62,500. The X3 M50, priced from $67,850, featured numerous enhancements, including a costly Frozen Deep Grey paint job, 21-inch wheels, and Merino leather upholstery, bringing the MSRP to $79,100. While the paint was striking, the X3's austere cabin struggled to justify its high price.

The X3's design was described as "monolithic" by BMW, with a cold, industrial aesthetic. The illuminated grille surround on the M50 was polarizing, but the M badges, wheels, and exhaust system added sporty flair. Inside, nighttime lighting was excellent, but the touch-sensing controls and lack of surface liners detracted from the overall experience. BMW attempted to improve the interior for 2026 with standard artificial leather and upgraded trim.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser featured Toyota's i-Force Max hybrid system, combining a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivered 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, with a full-time 4WD system and electronic locking differentials. It boasted a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds and included features like Downhill Assist Control and Crawl Control. The more expensive Land Cruiser model added Multi-Terrain Select modes and a front stabilizer bar disconnect.

Despite an EPA rating of 23 mpg combined, real-world testing yielded only 15.7 mpg. The Land Cruiser excelled as a daily driver and off-road adventurer, though it struggled on twisty roads due to its suspension tuning. It handled urban and suburban driving well, with impressive off-road capabilities, including 8.7 inches of ground clearance. The electric assist motor and turbocharged torque provided a powerful and responsive feel, though acceleration and braking revealed some limitations.

The 2026 BMW X3 M50 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 393 horsepower and 428 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, with performance hardware like an M Sport rear differential and adaptive suspension. The base X3 30 xDrive's 255-horsepower engine was also sprightly, reaching 60 mph in six seconds. Both models came with AWD.

The X3 M50's turbo six was praised for its speed and sound, while the 48-volt mild hybrid system ensured smooth operation. The X3 achieved 27 mpg combined, with a real-world average of 24.1 mpg. Despite its firm ride, the X3 M50 was a comfortable commuter, with a tight turning radius and advanced parking technologies. It offered a towing capacity of 4,850 pounds, with the base model handling 4,000 pounds.

Upgrading from the Land Cruiser 1958 to the Land Cruiser model replaced cloth upholstery with SofTex artificial leather, adding heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The Premium Package included real leather and a power sunroof. Front seats were comfortable, but the second-row seats lacked support. The rear window design and center console's cool box were criticized for practicality. The Land Cruiser offered 46.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 82.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2026 BMW X3 featured heated, power-adjustable front sport seats with Veganza upholstery. Ventilated front seats were optional, and Merino leather was available. The front seats provided excellent support, but rear passengers faced discomfort due to low seat cushions and hard storage net frames. The Travel and Comfort system added convenience for road trips. The X3's panoramic sunroof and generous storage were highlights, though the lack of surface liners was noted. Cargo space measured 31.5 cubic feet, expandable to 67.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser upgraded from the 1958 model's 7-inch display to dual 12.3-inch screens with the Toyota Audio Multimedia system. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and access to Apple Music and Amazon Music. Five connected service plans were available, including Drive Connect with cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The Premium Package added a JBL sound system, wireless charger, head-up display, and digital key technology.

The 2026 BMW X3 featured a Curved Display with a 12.3-inch 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 ran BMW Operating System 9 with cloud-based navigation, Augmented View, and more. However, real-world issues were encountered, including challenges with Guest mode and voice recognition. Apple CarPlay worked well, except for a unique audio glitch.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser included Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, featuring forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. It also offered lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist. Additional features included road sign recognition and blind-spot monitoring. The Land Cruiser received a four-star overall rating from NHTSA, with mixed results in specific tests.

The 2026 BMW X3 offered a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. The optional Driving Assistance Professional Package added advanced features like lane-centering assist and adaptive cruise control. The X3's safety tech was customizable, though occasional issues were noted. It received a four-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS.