2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2025 BMW X3

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was a nostalgic nod to the past, with its design largely unchanged since 2010. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a rugged, stable appearance, ideal for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model enhanced this tough persona with underbody skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a robust roof rack. However, the interior showed its age with outdated technology and styling, featuring an analog instrument panel and a small eight-inch infotainment touchscreen. While some might appreciate the nostalgic feel, others could mistake it for a well-maintained used vehicle. The interior materials, including hard plastics and vinyl-like upholstery, were typical for off-road vehicles, prioritizing durability over luxury.

In contrast, the 2025 BMW X3 presented a seductive and athletic look, with a long hood and tapering roofline. The Arctic Race Blue paint and 21-inch wheels added to its allure. Inside, the X3 felt spacious, with a simple dashboard and a prominent BMW Curved Display. The cabin featured quality materials, though some plastics revealed its price point. The front seats offered comfort with power adjustments and Veganza artificial leather, while the rear seats were less accommodating for taller passengers. The cargo area was practical, with a lightweight cover and additional storage under the load floor.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. While these figures were comparable to competitors like the Bronco and Wrangler, the 4Runner's five-speed automatic transmission limited its acceleration and fuel efficiency. The TRD Pro model came with standard four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, making it capable off-road. However, on pavement, the 4Runner felt sluggish, with noticeable rear-end squat during acceleration and a loud engine and exhaust. The soft suspension, while beneficial for off-roading, resulted in body roll and floatiness on highways.

The 2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Despite its weight, the X3 achieved a respectable zero-to-60 mph time of six seconds, thanks to its eight-speed automatic transmission and xDrive AWD system. The engine's broad power curve and mild-hybrid system improved responsiveness and fuel economy. The M50 xDrive variant offered even more power with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, reaching 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The X3's sport-tuned suspension and performance tires provided an engaging driving experience, though the ride could be harsh on imperfect roads.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior was straightforward, with large climate-control dials and sturdy handles for off-road stability. Visibility was excellent, and the front seats offered ample space, though the steering wheel's limited adjustment could be an issue for taller drivers. The second row provided generous legroom, but headroom was restricted. The 4Runner's cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 89.7 cubic feet available when the rear seats were stowed. However, the lack of remote seat releases and a powered liftgate were drawbacks.

The 2025 BMW X3's cabin felt spacious, with a simple dashboard and a large Curved Display. The front seats were comfortable, with power adjustments and optional ventilation. The rear seats, however, were less accommodating for taller passengers. The cargo area offered 31.5 cubic feet of space, with practical features like a lightweight cover and additional storage under the load floor. The 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat allowed for versatile cargo arrangements.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the small touchscreen was challenging to use while driving. The TRD Pro model featured a 15-speaker JBL audio system, though road noise often obscured the sound quality. Additional terrain controls were available, but their pictogram labels required consulting the owner's manual for full understanding.

The 2025 BMW X3's Curved Display was powered by the new iDrive 9 software, offering a user-friendly interface with Quick Select. However, creating profiles and accessing BMW Digital Services proved challenging during testing. The system occasionally froze, and media preferences were sometimes forgotten. Despite these issues, the navigation system and wireless Apple CarPlay worked well. The test vehicle's infotainment problems might have been unique, but they were frustrating nonetheless.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four stars from NHTSA for overall and frontal crash protection, and five stars for side impacts. The IIHS gave it "Good" ratings for moderate frontal overlap and side protection tests, but "Marginal" and "Poor" results in the small overlap frontal test. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-departure warning, though the alerts were sometimes oversensitive.

The 2025 BMW X3's driver assistance features were more rewarding, with the standard Active Driving Assistant suite offering forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Premium Package added adaptive cruise control and Parking Assistant Plus, while the Driving Assistant Professional Package included hands-free Traffic Jam Assistant and Lane Change Assistant. The X3 earned a four-star overall rating from NHTSA, with four stars for frontal-impact crash tests.