2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe presented a surprising value proposition. Upon examining its features, materials, and driving experience, many found it hard to believe the SUV's price point. The Santa Fe's interior, especially in the Calligraphy trim, exuded a sense of luxury with its high-quality materials and refined controls, making it feel like a more expensive vehicle. The exterior design, while unique, was not universally appealing, but it aligned with Hyundai's design language. The Santa Fe's interior upgrades, including a new center console and digital instrumentation, elevated its market position, offering a sophisticated driving environment.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 showcased a more aggressive exterior design with subtle updates, such as a larger kidney grille and new LED headlights. The interior was well-appointed, featuring dark oak wood trim and SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery, with options for premium Vernasca leather. The X3's cabin was spacious and comfortable, accommodating five adults with ease. The redesigned center console and larger infotainment system improved ergonomics and accessibility, while the overall design maintained BMW's signature style. The X3's interior was functional and stylish, offering a tailored, sophisticated feel.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered three new powertrains, starting with a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine for the SE and SEL trims. The hybrid variant combined a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 226 horsepower. The Limited and Calligraphy trims featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, delivering 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Santa Fe's driving modes—Normal, Sport, and Smart—allowed for varied driving experiences, with the turbocharged engine providing impressive acceleration and handling. Fuel efficiency was commendable, with both powertrains achieving 24 mpg combined.

The 2022 BMW X3 came equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission across all models. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i variants featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 6 seconds. The M40i model boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, generating 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The X3's fuel economy varied, with the sDrive30i achieving 25 mpg combined and the M40i at 23 mpg combined. The M40i's performance enhancements, including a sport exhaust and adaptive suspension, provided a more dynamic driving experience.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a spacious interior with dual-zone climate control and stain-resistant fabric for cloth seats. The Calligraphy trim elevated luxury with Nappa leather and a suede-like headliner. The SUV provided ample comfort with power-adjustable seats, heated and ventilated options, and a heated steering wheel. The rear seat was particularly spacious, with sliding functionality for increased cargo space. The Santa Fe's cargo capacity was 36.4 cubic feet, expanding to 72.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided a roomy cabin for five, with a 40/20/40-split rear seat configuration. The cargo area was generous, accommodating multiple bags and equipment. The X3's seats, available in SensaTec or Vernasca leather, offered comfort and adjustability, though the thigh-support cushion control was noted as potentially intrusive. The redesigned center console improved ergonomics, and the infotainment system was larger and more accessible. The X3's cargo space was practical, with a power tailgate and optional hands-free opening.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy was equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, surround-view camera, and an 8.5-inch head-up display. The infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the 8-inch screen, with wired versions on the 10.25-inch screen. Blue Link connected services were included, providing remote engine start and climate control. The Santa Fe lacked a WiFi hotspot but featured Digital Key and Remote Smart Parking Assist.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7, including a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, navigation, and smartphone integration. An optional Live Cockpit Professional expanded the screens to 12.3 inches. The X3 offered a 12-speaker HiFi sound system, with an optional Harman Kardon system for the M40i. Additional tech options included a Convenience Package and a Premium Package, enhancing comfort and functionality.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Safe Exit Assist, and a rear-occupant alert system. The Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist added to its safety credentials. The Santa Fe earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS with LED projector headlights.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and active blind-spot monitoring. The available Parking Assistance Package and Driving Assistant Professional Package added advanced features like traffic jam assistance and a 360-degree camera view. The X3's safety systems were comprehensive and advanced.