The 2019 BMW X3 is a versatile compact crossover that delivers on rising expectations.
Pros Handsome exterior Responsive and sharp powertrains Standard automatic emergency braking this year Good outward vision Ample interior room
Cons Can easily reach more than $60,000 CarPlay with a subscription? Really? Conservative compared to competitors No electrified version yet Relatively heavy steering
The 2019 BMW X3 ranked #5 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the BMW X3 has a score of 8.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 13 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Powerful engines Nimble handling Spacious, supportive seats Above-average cargo capacity
Cons Rivals are more opulent inside Above-average starting price
Fifteen years ago, it might have been difficult to foresee the success of the X3. Back then, BMW's 3 Series wagon set the standard for the class and offered all the practicality you could want in a vehicle that size. Why get something that didn't handle as well and got worse fuel economy? But that original 2004 X3 helped pioneer the entry-level luxury SUV class, and the 2019 X3 is now a hugely important staple in the BMW lineup.
Pros Both available engines are fuel-efficient and powerful Wide variety of standard and optional features for personalization Plenty of room for front and rear passengers
Cons Android Auto is conspicuously absent from the options list
With three rows of seating and plenty of cargo space, the 2020 Toyota Highlander is a practical choice for families. Toyota's mid-size SUV is all new for 2020 and offers many useful improvements and extra features not found in the outgoing 2019 model. For 2020, the Highlander gets an interior makeover to match its updated exterior styling. Base L and mid-range LE Highlander models can seat eight passengers using bench seats in both the second and third rows, but a seven-seat arrangement with second-row captain's chairs is available on higher trims. An 8.0-inch infotainment system with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability is standard but the Highlander Limited and Platinum both get a larger 12.3-inch display; onboard Wi-Fi and an 11-speaker JBL audio system are both available as well.
The 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid’s impressive fuel economy may win us over.
Pros Spacious interior High-mpg hybrid Upgraded infotainment
Cons Busy styling Rivals’ turbos may be faster Stiff competition
Fully redesigned for 2020.Increased cargo room behind the third row.Android Auto and Apple Car Play finally added.Part of the fourth Highlander generation introduced for 2020.
Pros Comfortable, quiet ride Good power and response from standard V6 engine Upscale interior materials Increased number of standard and optional safety features
Cons Third row is kids-only No seat height adjustment for front passenger Evolutionary cabin design Doesn't feel like a redesign from the ground up
