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BMW X3 outpoints Range Rover Evoque in tests

By The Editors Of Consumer Reports 4 min read

The BMW X3, which originated the compact luxury SUV market, handily outpointed its European rival, the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, in Consumer Reports’ recent head-to-head match up.

While the X3 scored an 80 in CR’s road test, the Evoque received a road test score of 60, scoring near the bottom of its category. The X3 is one of the few SUVs that feels sporty to drive and gets a respectable 22 mpg overall on premium fuel. With its unique styling, the new Evoque turns heads, but it has many shortcomings, including a cramped cabin and a stiff ride.

CR also tested three other vehicles: The Volkswagen Tiguan, which got some updates for 2012 and earned a Very Good test score; the Toyota Prius V, a family-friendly wagon version of the Prius; and the Jeep Wrangler.

The new Prius V (which CR tested) received an Excellent road test score. No other vehicle comes close to its blend of versatility and fuel economy.

This wagon version of the Prius hatchback has a big cargo area and roomy rear seat, yet still returns 41 mpg overall in CR’s own fuel economy tests.

Despite some recent improvements, the Jeep Wrangler, an iconic off-roader, remains CR’s lowest ranked vehicle, with a road test score of 20.

The BMW X3 was redesigned for 2011, while the Land Rover Evoque is new for 2012. The Volkswagen Tiguan competes in this class but at a lower price; it was updated for 2012. The Jeep Wrangler got a new modern drivetrain for 2012. Despite a familiar name, the Prius V is a new model for 2012.

The Prius V, X3 and Tiguan are all Recommended. The Evoque and Wrangler scored too low for CR to Recommend. CR only Recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on its Annual Auto Survey of its more than 7 million print and Web subscribers and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.

CR’s other findings include:

n BMW X3. The X3 rides firmly and provides decent isolation from bumps and road imperfections. The BMW X3 xDrive28i ($43,375 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 240-hp, 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine that provides strong acceleration and 22 mpg overall in CR’s own fuel economy tests. It has a very roomy cargo area. The X3 scores well in its category; it outscores eight other previously tested compact luxury SUVs in CR’s Ratings, and it is only outpointed by the Audi Q5 3.2.

n Land Rover Evoque. The eye-catching Evoque has impressive acceleration and braking, but the ride is choppy. At CR’s track, the vehicle repeatedly lifted a wheel during an avoidance maneuver. The Range Rover Evoque Pure ($45,745 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 240-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers 23 mpg overall on premium fuel. The cargo area is small.

n Volkswagen Tiguan. The Tiguan is a compact SUV with a dash of luxury. The Volkswagen Tiguan SEL ($37,020 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 200-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers lively performance and gets 21 mpg overall. The cargo area is modest.

n Wrangler Unlimited. The Wrangler Unlimited’s appeal wanes on the daily commute. The ride is unsettled and wind noise is pervasive. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara ($36,340 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 285-hp, 3.6-liter V6 engine. It gets 17 mpg overall. The Wrangler has great ground clearance and axle articulation for off-roading, but the Sahara version struggled for traction on CR’s rock-hill course.

n Prius V. The Prius V is an impressive combination of utility and efficiency. The Toyota Prius V Three ($28,217 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 134-hp, 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine with electric assist. Fuel economy is impressive, with test results of 33 mpg in city driving and 47 mpg on the highway. Rear seat and cargo room are both generous.

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