Wi-Fi hotspot now standard.No other significant changes for 2021.
Pros Wickedly quick acceleration Grip and handling are excellent Still as practical as a standard X3
Cons Excessively stiff ride, even in the softest suspension setting Tire roar on the highway can be wearing on long drives
For 2021, the X3 M adds newly standard features and some fresh options. Most notably, its infotainment system now includes Android Auto, which had been conspicuously missing. Likewise, a Wi-Fi hotspot and a one-year subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio with 360L are now standard; a matte wood finish is a new interior option. BMW also changes the Competition designation from a model to a package.
Pros As quick or quicker than many sports cars, mind-boggling agility for an SUV, more practical than a sedan.
Cons Ride is stiffer than desired, fewer driver-mode settings would be fine, how much power is too much power?
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 8.5 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
PROS PHEV drivetrain enables limited electric running at speeds up to 135km/h Excellent blend of everyday comfort, refinement and performance 3500kg towing capacity It shares its drivetrain with the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid
CONS PHEV drivetrain adds handsomely to the weight Li-ion battery robs 70L of boot space Lacks the traditional hardened performance focus for which Volkswagen R models are renowned
“A curious mix of speed and efficiency with a big dollop of comfort. It's just not especially fun ”
PROS Comfy, plush, quick and a company car bargain
CONS Not as nimble as a Cayenne
The VW Touareg R is comfortable, well-equipped and effortless to drive, but not sharp or engaging enough to be considered a true sports SUV. That leaves it in somewhat of a no man’s land. Put simply, those looking for a fast yet relatively frugal sports SUV would be better served by the similarly priced Porsche Cayenne e-Hybrid, while those wanting a luxurious and well-rounded plug-in hybrid luxury SUV would be better off with the BMW X5 xDrive45e.
PROS Well-equipped Spacious inside for up to five people Very quiet in electric mode
CONS Cheap-feeling interior Fussy infotainment system Not very exciting to drive
