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
BMW has made very few changes to the X1 for 2021: SiriusXM satellite radio is now standard, and LED fog lamps are no longer part of the optional Convenience or Premium packages. Also, BMW won't let customers order the sports seats as a standalone option anymore. You have to select the M Sport pack if you want them.
Pros Peppy turbo four, crisp handling, practical interior.
Cons Unsupportive standard front seats, aging infotainment interface, bland styling.
The 2021 BMW X1 is an appealing crossover with hatchback moves, but keep a lid on options for the better value.
Pros Turbocharged punch Nimble around-town handling Good transmission Comfy front seats Reasonably large cargo area
Cons Stodgy vs. expressive rivals Rear-seat leg room Infotainment’s clunky controller Chintzy interior bits Can get expensive
The 2021 BMW X1's #1 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the BMW X1 has a score of 8.4 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 34 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Sporty handling Potent engine Intuitive infotainment system Large cargo hold
Cons Firm ride Some low-rent cabin materials
