BMW X3 vs Toyota Sienna

Now in its fourth generation, the latest family hauler is offered only as a fuel-sipping hybrid model with three rows of seating and power sliding doors. Plus, the Sienna comes standard with plenty of safety features and it’s comfy to boot. Why even both with an SUV?

Verdict: The 2024 Toyota Sienna delivers impressive fuel efficiency, thanks to its standard hybrid engine. Toyota also offers optional all-wheel drive, and many shoppers may appreciate the Sienna's dramatic exterior styling. Performance, while efficient, isn't thrilling, and the Sienna's tech is looking a bit outdated. Otherwise, this minivan delivers great value.

Since its inception in 2003, the BMW X3 has grown to become one of the brand’s top sellers. And starting with its second generation (circa 2010), the luxury compact crossover has been built at BMW Spartanburg—the automaker’s only manufacturing facility north of the Mexican border. Incidentally, because Spartanburg is the global producer of every gas-powered BMW crossover besides the X1 and X2, the plant also boasts the highest production numbers of any BMW plant worldwide. One can speculate that the popular X3 has a lot to do with that.

Last redesigned for 2018, the X3 receives a rather hefty mid-cycle refresh for 2022. Updates include design tweaks, new engines, more technology, and an expanded suite of safety features. (Interestingly, while the BMW X3 xDrive30e plug-in hybrid has been dropped from the lineup in the United States, it continues in 2022 in Canada. This model is not covered in this review.)