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 Cadillac XT5 comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 9-speed shiftable automatic.Wireless compatibility for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Pros Above-average cargo capacity Generous legroom and headroom Relatively affordable compared to other midsize SUVs
Cons Small windows and mirrors make it hard to see out of the back Not a lot of cabin storage for small items Lets in too much exterior noise
The XT5 receives a number of new standard features for 2021, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, Amazon Alexa integration, and an upgraded digital display in the gauge cluster. Elsewhere, the XT5's exterior cameras get upgraded to provide better picture quality, a more robust wireless charging pad and USB-C charging outlets have been added, and a feature that uses Near Field Communication to pair smartphones in just one step joins the list.
Pros Placid cabin during cruising, handsome exterior styling, plenty of cargo space.
Cons Sleepy base four-cylinder engine, ride gets rough on pockmarked roads, unpolished interior design.
The 2021 Cadillac XT5's #9 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Cadillac XT5 has a score of 7.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 35 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent predicted reliability rating Good gas mileage Plenty of legroom
Cons Cabin materials a step below many rivals' Less athletic than competitors So-so ride quality
