What are the best two-row luxury SUVs? Well, according to U.S. News and World Report the top tippety two are both 2021 BMW models. The 2021 BMW X3 and the BMW X1 are respectively the No. 1 and No. 2 two-row luxury SUVs of the year.

If you don’t need a massive three-row family hauler, a two-row luxury SUV is a great alternative to something smaller. It’s essentially the perfect go-between for people who don’t want a car but also don’t want a large luxury SUV. The 2021 BMW X3 and the 2021 BMW X1 are the top two choices according to U.S. News.

Is the 2021 BMW X3 a good SUV?

According to the rankings, the 2021 BMW X3 is the best two-row luxury SUV you can buy. It’s both a nice, comfy compact SUV for day to day driving and an athletic partner for carving the curves of a mountain pass. If you want a versatile SUV that’s not too big, the BMW X3 is one of the best around.

The 2021 BMW X3 ranks at the top of the luxury compact SUV class…

U.S. News and World Report

U.S. News reviewers appreciate the BMW X3 for its exciting engine options. If you buy the 2021 BMX X3, you’ll choose between the standard 248 horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and three other options. While most people are likely going to be satisfied with the standard 30i engine, the BMW X3 also offers a 288 horsepower 4-cylinder under the hood of the plug-in hybrid xDrive30e model. In addition, there are two performance-tuned M engine options: the M40i’s 382horsepower turbocharged 6-cylinder engine and the 473 horsepower twin-turbocharged 6-cylinder in the BMX X3 M model.

The 2021 BMW X3 also provides a composed and engaging driving experience with “poised ride and handling.” The infotainment system is the creme de la creme of modern tech, both user friendly and advanced. For its size, the X3 also provides plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The only issue U.S. News could point out is its high price. But maybe you get what you pay for.

The 2021 BMW X1 is basically just a less expensive version––and still great

The 2021 BMW X1 ticks all the same boxes as its X3 sibling. It’s slightly smaller in stature, but it still boasts ample cargo space and comfortable passenger accommodations. In addition, it shares the acclaimed infotainment system with the X3.

In terms of the best luxury SUVs with two rows, the 2021 BMW is in second place. However, U.S. News ranked it first in the luxury compact SUV class. The BMW X3 is the highest-ranked luxury compact SUV. So they are both the best in their class in addition to being the best luxury SUVs with two rows.

The X1 only offers one engine option, but it’s potent enough for the typical luxury SUV buyer. Obviously, for those seeking more power and performance, the X3 is the perfect step up. Either way, most will be happy with the 2021 BMW X1 and its 2-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces up to 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.

It’s hard to go wrong with either of the best two-row luxury SUV options

When it comes to finding a great luxury SUV with two rows, both the 2021 BMW X3 and the 2021 BMW X1 are great compact and subcompact luxury SUV options. It’s hard to go wrong with either. There is one stark difference.

The X1 starts at $35,400. The X3 has a starting price of $43,000. The X3 starts much higher and can option out extremely high with the brawnier engine options. Additionally, because the X1 starts so much lower, it does have lesser interior materials in terms of luxury-level quality.