The 2021 BMW X3 is a do-all small crossover loaded with luxury, technology, and usability, with a dash of sporty personality.
Pros The best BMW to buy? Strong engine choices Decent standard safety gear Comfortable, well-appointed cabin Ferocious M versions
Cons Mighty expensive when loaded up Wallflower styling Grabby hybrid brakes A few cheap touches inside
The 2021 BMW X3's #1 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Compact SUVs category. Currently the BMW X3 has a score of 8.6 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 30 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Muscular engine options Poised ride and handling Easy-to-use infotainment system Roomy seating and cargo space
Cons Higher starting price than many rivals
The 2021 BMW X3 Hybrid comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.Many advanced safety features are now standard.Android Auto is finally available.A few previously optional features are now standard.
Pros Smooth ride and comfortable seats Wide variety of standard and optional features for personalization Roomy interior for both front and rear passengers
Cons Limited real-world EV range Lower overall fuel economy than the gas-only X3 Questionable value proposition of the plug-in hybrid
The 2021 Kia Sorento crossover SUV strikes out in a new styling direction, and brings hybrid and plug-in models along for the adventure.
PROS More expressive Available hybrid powertrains Bigger interior More square inches of touchscreen
CONS What’s with the door tooth? Third-row seat’s very, very small More noise More hard plastic in the cabin
The Sorento is all new for 2021, with a starting price that's $2450 higher than last year. Its boxier proportions and bolder styling mark a stark departure from the curvier and softer appearance of the outgoing Sorento. In addition to riding on an all-new platform that's bigger inside and out, the new Sorento adds a hybrid powertrain as well as an eventual plug-in variant.We like the EX trim level. It's pricier than the bottom two models, but it comes standard with the more powerful 281-hp turbo-four. It also has nicer amenities than the S trim below it that include leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, remote start, and snazzier styling such as 18-inch wheels and black exterior accents.
