2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 BMW X3

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received several updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation of the X3 aimed to refine the small SUV formula, offering an exterior and interior presence reminiscent of larger BMW models. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while the interior featured a cold, mechanical styling typical of BMW, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics. The 2021 X3 was available in several trims, including the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, with the high-performance X3 M covered separately. Standard features included 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 10.2-inch infotainment system, with various options for added luxury and convenience.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 featured a revised exterior design with a more aggressive stance, including a larger kidney grille and slimmer adaptive full LED headlights. The rear received new taillights with a black surround and pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs, along with larger exhaust tips and a redesigned bumper. The 2022 X3 was available in four variants: sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and M, with the sDrive30i being the only rear-wheel-drive model. New exterior options included an M Sport Package, specialized aero wheels, and new paint finishes like Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue II. The interior featured a clean and efficient design with dark oak wood trim, an anthracite headliner, and new perforated SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery, with options for premium Vernasca leather and a panoramic moonroof.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the sDrive30i and xDrive30i trims, producing 248 horsepower and paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i featured rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i came with all-wheel drive. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and had a 17-mile electric-only range, with recharging times of about 3.5 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger. For those seeking more performance, the M40i trim featured a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, providing robust acceleration and responsive cornering. The high-performance X3 M offered an impressive 473 horsepower.

The 2022 BMW X3 continued with an eight-speed automatic transmission across all models. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i trims retained the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 6 seconds. However, fuel economy saw a slight drop compared to the previous year, with the sDrive30i rated at 23 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, and the xDrive30i at 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The M40i trim added a mild-hybrid system to its 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine, producing 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. The mild-hybrid system offered smoother start/stop operation and an additional 11 horsepower during acceleration. The M40i also featured a flap-controlled sports exhaust system, sport brakes, an adaptive suspension, and an AWD system tuned for a rear-oriented torque split.

The 2021 BMW X3 provided up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use, making it one of the most spacious options in the small luxury SUV segment. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free power liftgate available. The interior offered ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, with real buttons and dials complementing the main touchscreen for ease of use.

The 2022 BMW X3 continued to deliver on comfort and practicality, with seating for five and ample cargo space. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40-split, providing enough room for backpacks, film equipment, and additional carry-on suitcases. A power tailgate was standard, with an optional hands-free opening available. The SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, with the upgraded Vernasca leather offering more softness. The redesigned center console and larger standard infotainment system improved accessibility and usability, with push-button and rocker-style controls for climate and audio functions.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, which was user-friendly compared to other luxury systems. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto available as an option. Other options included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. Gesture control was also available, allowing basic controls through hand movements.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics as standard, including a 5.1-inch color display instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. Standard features included navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa integration, two USB ports, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and various connected digital features. An optional Live Cockpit Professional enlarged both screens to 12.3 inches, providing a fully digital experience. The standard sound system included 12 speakers, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system available for the M40i trim. Additional tech options included a Convenience Package and a Premium Package, offering features like keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a head-up display.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA and added more safety features and driver-assistance systems. Standard features included adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, active blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear collision avoidance, park distance control with auto braking, forward-collision warning with pedestrian/cyclist detection, and active pre-collision protection systems. Optional packages added parking assistance, active park distance control, 360-degree surround camera view, traffic jam assistance, back-up assistant, front cross-traffic alert, active lane-keep assist with lane centering, and side collision avoidance.