2021 BMW X3 vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received significant updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation of the X3 refined BMW's approach to small luxury SUVs, offering an exterior and interior presence reminiscent of larger, more expensive BMW models. The X3's exterior mirrored a downsized BMW X5, while the interior maintained BMW's signature cold, mechanical styling. Although not as aesthetically pleasing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dashboard was more functional. Trims for the 2021 X3 included 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 numerous options available for added luxury and convenience.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 marked a significant evolution from Volvo's boxy cars of the past, maintaining the brand's family-friendly, safety-oriented image while moving upscale. The current XC90, launched in 2016, rode on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform and served as Volvo's flagship SUV. The 2022 model featured a sleek, athletic design with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches, complemented by superior fit and finish. The interior exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," with natural wood and metal trim, a sliding wood tambor cover on the center console, and a clear crystal gear selector handle. Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident, with options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery. The XC90's interior was spacious and comfortable, making it a true luxury vehicle.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains to suit different driving preferences. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i had rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i came with all-wheel drive. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and a 17-mile electric-only range, with recharging times of about 3.5 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger or almost 12 hours with a 120-volt outlet. For those seeking a performance edge, the M40i offered a 382-hp twin-turbo inline-six engine, providing robust acceleration and responsive cornering. The X3 M performance model, with 473 horsepower, catered to drivers with a need for speed and family space.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 provided three powertrain options. The T5 models used a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline four-cylinder engine, producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 models featured a supercharged and turbocharged version of the same engine, delivering 316 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The T8 plug-in hybrid combined the supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, achieving a combined 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. T5 models were front-wheel drive with available all-wheel drive, while T6 and T8 models were all-wheel drive only. The T8's electric motor drove the rear wheels, enhancing performance. The XC90 engines required Premium gasoline, with EPA estimates ranging from 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway for T5 FWD models to 27 mpg combined for the T8. The extended range T8 variant offered up to 36 miles of electric-only range. The XC90's driving experience was superb, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model.

The 2021 BMW X3 excelled in cargo space, offering up to 62.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free power liftgate available. The X3 provided ample space for passengers, with plenty of headroom and legroom in the front row and adult-friendly rear seats. The driver and front passenger benefited from real buttons and dials, complementing the main touchscreen and reducing the learning curve for new users.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, depending on the configuration. The third row was accessible with a one-handed slide and fold of the second row, suitable for children but less comfortable for adults. The XC90 offered 15.9 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded and up to 85.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The XC90 could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The interior featured ample storage, comfortable seating, and a standard laminated panoramic moonroof. The air-conditioning system performed well during a heat wave, providing a comfortable environment regardless of the weather.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use. The system combined touch operation with an iDrive dial in the center console, catering to different user preferences. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto available as an option. Additional options included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. The optional gesture control allowed basic controls through hand movements, though it could result in false positives for those who talk with their hands.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, offering tablet-like functionality with familiar gestures such as pinch, pull, and swipe. However, the system could be glitchy and slow to respond. The nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen was positioned close to the driver's line of sight, minimizing distraction. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel provided easy customization and crisp graphics. The $1,650 Advanced package included a head-up display, a 360-degree surround view camera system, and an advanced air cleaner. The XC90 came with standard Harman Kardon Premium Sound, with a $3,200 Bowers & Wilkins upgrade available. The vehicle included two front USB-A ports, two rear USB-C ports, a WiFi hotspot, and the Volvo Care smartphone app for remote vehicle controls.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features, including 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 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, featuring blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, rain-sensing wipers, slippery road alert, lane-keeping aid, adaptive cruise control, oncoming lane mitigation, and road-sign recognition. Volvo's Pilot Assist system combined several safety features to keep the car in its lane and at a set speed with minimal driver intervention. The XC90 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.