2009 BMW X3 vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2009 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 272 kg more than 2008 Toyota Highlander.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Toyota Highlander. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 2008 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | X3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1384 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.3 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 73 L |
