2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 Lexus RX

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design aesthetic that was emblematic of the brand's styling cues. It featured a large grille, angular headlamps, and a shapely body with a floating roof. Inside, the RX offered sumptuous seating with perforated leather upholstery, although the center console design was considered bland and somewhat dated. The RX was available in five variants, including the RX, RX F Sport, RXL, RX Hybrid, and RXL Hybrid, each catering to different preferences, from performance-focused to extended body options with third-row seating. The exterior boasted standard 18-inch aluminum wheels and LED lighting, with available upgrades like 20-inch wheels and triple-beam LED headlights. The interior was well-appointed, offering a range of features from power-adjustable seats to semi-aniline leather upholstery, though the infotainment system was criticized for its dated appearance.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 presented a more aggressive exterior design with a larger kidney grille and slimmer adaptive full LED headlights. The rear featured new taillights with a black surround and pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs. The X3 was available in four variants: sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and M, with the sDrive30i being the only rear-wheel-drive model. The X3 offered a range of exterior updates, including an M Sport Package and new paint options like Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue II. Inside, the X3's cabin was clean and efficient, featuring dark oak wood trim, eight-way power-adjustable front Sport seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The interior offered a variety of color choices and ambient lighting options, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2021 Lexus RX was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX Hybrid models combined a V6 engine with three electric motors, producing 308 horsepower. The RX offered a comfortable ride with tuning adjustments made for improved suspension and handling. The F Sport Handling package added adaptive variable suspension and sportier features. The RX achieved a top speed of 124 mph and accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain. Fuel efficiency varied, with the FWD RX 350 rated at 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission across all models. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i were powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, achieving zero-to-60 mph in 6 seconds. The M40i variant boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, producing 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with a zero-to-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. The X3 offered a balanced driving experience, with the M40i providing a more dynamic ride. Fuel economy for the sDrive30i was 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, while the M40i was rated at 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

The 2021 Lexus RX was a functional SUV with seating for five in the two-row models and up to seven in the three-row RXL variants. Front and second-row seating provided ample space, though the third row was tight. Cargo space was limited, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The three-row version offered 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row and 58.5 cubic feet with all seats folded. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered seating for five, with a spacious interior for a compact crossover. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40-split, providing ample cargo space for luggage and equipment. The X3's sport seats were supportive, and the interior offered a range of adjustability. The redesigned center console and larger infotainment system improved ergonomics. A power tailgate was standard, with hands-free opening available. The X3's interior was well-appointed, with options for upgraded leather and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2021 Lexus RX came standard with dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, and connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson sound system. The infotainment system was functional but dated, with a touchpad controller that took up valuable console space. The RX lacked wireless smartphone integration.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7, including a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, navigation, and connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An optional Live Cockpit Professional offered larger screens and a fully digital experience. The X3's infotainment system was customizable, with multiple control options. A 12-speaker HiFi sound system was standard, with a Harman Kardon system available on M40i models. Additional tech options included a Convenience Package and a Premium Package with features like a head-up display and gesture control.

The 2021 Lexus RX received a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came equipped with a suite of safety features, including a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The RX offered good safety features but lacked advanced hands-off driving technology.

The 2022 BMW X3 earned a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It included standard safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and active blind-spot monitoring. The X3 offered additional safety packages with features like a 360-degree camera view and active lane-keep assist. The Driving Assistant Professional Package added traffic jam assistance and other advanced systems.