2022 BMW X3 vs 2022 Chevrolet Blazer

The 2022 BMW X3 was available in four variants, with the sDrive30i being the only rear-wheel-drive model, while the others featured all-wheel drive. The exterior design was slightly revised to present a more aggressive stance, with a larger kidney grille and a black sensor bar for a unique look. The adaptive full LED headlights were slimmer, and the taillights featured a new design with a black surround and claw-shaped brake light LEDs. The rear was updated with larger exhaust tips and a new bumper, complemented by an M Sport Package for certain models, offering specialized aero wheels and new paint options. The interior of the X3 was well-appointed, featuring dark oak wood trim, power-adjustable front Sport seats, and a variety of seating materials and colors. Ambient lighting with 11 color combinations added to the cabin's ambiance, making it a comfortable and stylish choice.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer was offered in four trim levels, with the RS trim featuring a V6 engine and a sophisticated AWD system. The Blazer's design was inspired by the Camaro, with a sporty appearance enhanced by 20-inch wheels. However, the black trim on the rear bumper gave it an unfinished look. Inside, the Blazer borrowed elements from the Camaro, with an 8-inch touchscreen display and innovative climate control systems. The interior featured hard plastics, but the red interior accents in the RS trim added a touch of sophistication. The Blazer's color scheme and design elements made it visually appealing, though the quality of materials left room for improvement.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission across all models, with the sDrive30i and xDrive30i powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The X3 sDrive30i achieved 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, while the xDrive30i offered slightly lower fuel economy. The M40i variant boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, delivering 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. The M40i's performance was enhanced by a sports exhaust system, sport brakes, and an adaptive suspension, making it a more dynamic choice for driving enthusiasts.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The RS trim featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 308 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque, with a dual-clutch AWD system. The Blazer RS offered a firm and sporty driving experience, though the V6 engine was loud and unrefined. The SUV's suspension and steering were less impressive on winding roads, and the nine-speed automatic transmission was slow to downshift. The Blazer RS achieved an average of 20.5 mpg in testing, slightly below its EPA rating.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided a comfortable and practical interior with seating for five and ample storage space. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40-split, offering flexibility for cargo and passengers. The SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, with the option to upgrade to Vernasca leather for added softness. The X3's redesigned center console and larger infotainment system improved ergonomics and accessibility. The vehicle's interior was well-suited for both driver and passengers, with thoughtful design elements and convenient features.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer offered a reasonably comfortable and functional interior, with black leather upholstery and red perforations in the RS trim. The front seats provided power adjustment and heating, though they lacked side bolsters and thigh support. The Blazer's back seat was spacious, with sliding tracks for added flexibility. Storage space was impressive, with a large glove compartment and various bins and trays throughout the cabin. The Blazer's cargo area measured 30.5 cubic feet, expanding to 64.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, though these numbers were small for a midsize SUV.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, including a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa integration. The system was customizable, with an optional Live Cockpit Professional offering larger screens and cloud-based navigation. A 12-speaker HiFi sound system was standard, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system available. Additional tech options included a Convenience Package and a Premium Package, offering features like a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer's infotainment system was user-friendly, with an 8-inch touchscreen display and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The upgraded system added satellite radio and connected navigation with enhanced voice recognition. The Blazer also offered wireless smartphone charging and an 8-speaker Bose audio system. Safety features included rear parking sensors, a high-resolution reversing camera, and a 360-degree surround-view camera, though rear visibility was limited.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA and offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, 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 surround camera view.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. Additional safety features included a rear-seat reminder system, Teen Driver technology, and an available adaptive cruise control system. The Blazer's advanced driving assistance systems were effective and user-friendly, though the IIHS did not award it a "Top Safety Pick" rating due to its headlights.