2021 BMW X3 vs 2022 Volvo XC60

In 2021, the BMW X3 continued to build on the highly refined design language introduced in its third generation in 2018. This generation had successfully imbued the X3 with luxury SUV qualities previously seen in larger models like the X5. For 2020, the X3 was updated with new variants, including a plug-in hybrid and performance-oriented M models. Visually, the compact SUV borrowed heavily from its larger sibling, combining an imposing exterior with a sleek, functional interior. BMW maintained its characteristic cold, mechanical aesthetic, accompanied by a highly functional dashboard layout. While the design might not have reached the artistic elegance of the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, it offered intuitive functionality and lined up well with other models in BMW's lineup.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 saw some subtle yet impactful styling updates. A redesigned front fascia with "air blades" flanked the grille, granting the SUV a sportier look. The rear bumper's new design concealed the tailpipes, while new wheel designs further modernized its appearance. Volvo also cleverly repositioned sensors behind a heated Volvo logo, ensuring functionality even in cold conditions. The XC60 shared its Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform with larger models like the XC90 and various sedan and wagon counterparts. Although the interior largely remained the same, it showcased Volvo’s hallmark clean design, featuring a portrait-oriented touchscreen and minimal clutter. Despite the elegance of models like the B6 R-Design, there was an overall sense that the XC60’s interior, while refined, was slightly more subdued compared to other Volvos.

Examining interior space and cargo capacity, the 2021 BMW X3 excelled with 62.7 cubic feet of cargo room with rear seats down and 28.7 cubic feet with them up. The cabin was spacious for all passengers, with ample headroom and legroom in the front, forming a commanding driving position. The rear seats comfortably accommodated adults on long journeys. BMW provided a practical mix of touchscreen interface and physical buttons, reducing the learning curve for drivers accustomed to tactile controls.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 did not change in terms of interior space compared to its predecessors. The front-row headroom was above average, though rear-seat headroom tied it with the Audi Q5 at the lower end of the segment. Legroom was average in both rows. Cargo capacity with mild-hybrid powertrains provided 21.6 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 49.8 cubic feet when folded flat. Plug-in hybrid versions slightly reduced those figures to 21.1 and 49.3 cubic feet, respectively. This placed the XC60 on the lower end of cargo space among luxury SUVs. The XC60 offered a good driving position with clear visibility and large mirrors aiding driving ease without over-reliance on driver aids.

The 2021 BMW X3 equipped a 10.2-inch touchscreen with the iDrive infotainment system, known for its user-friendly interface. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay was standard, although Android Auto was optional, a disadvantage against competitors offering both as standard. Additionally, the X3 provided options like wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon stereo. Optional gesture control allowed for basic function operation via hand movements, although it risked unintended commands from animated conversations.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent a significant tech upgrade, integrating a 9-inch touchscreen with Android Automotive OS. This system brought Google Assistant for voice control and Google Maps for navigation. Android users enjoyed profile syncing and access to third-party apps via Google Play. The XC60 ensured full iPhone compatibility, though with less integrated functionality. The digital instrument cluster displayed a map or a simplified "Calm" setting to minimize distractions. The infotainment overhaul included OTA updates, enhancing system functionality dynamically.