2022 BMW X3 vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 BMW X3 was available in four variants, including the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and M, with the sDrive30i being the only rear-wheel-drive model. The exterior design of the X3 was slightly more aggressive, featuring a larger kidney grille and a black sensor bar for a unique look. The adaptive full LED headlights were slimmer, and the taillights had 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, while the M Sport Package added sporty elements like larger air intakes and a sportier rear bumper. The interior of the X3 was well-appointed with features like dark oak wood trim, power-adjustable front Sport seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The cabin offered various color options and ambient lighting to enhance the driving experience.

The 2022 Lexus RX was available in base 350, F Sport, and L trim levels, with a hybrid model also offered. The RX design remained modern and sporty, with sharp character lines and angular features. The F Sport trim was the most athletic in appearance, featuring 20-inch wheels and unique front fascia. The interior of the RX offered luxury appeal, with F Sport models adding sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. The cabin had a high-quality feel, although the center stack felt a bit dated. The RX provided a comfortable ride, but the F Sport seats were less comfortable, and finding an ideal driving position was challenging. The limited-edition Black Line trim added exclusive features for a premium look.

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, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 6 seconds. The fuel economy for the sDrive30i was 23 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while the xDrive30i offered 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The X3 M40i had a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, producing 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. The M40i was more dynamic, with features like a flap-controlled sports exhaust system and adaptive suspension, but the mild-hybrid system did not improve fuel economy.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h added electric motors for a combined output of 308 hp. All RX models had an eight-speed automatic transmission, with FWD standard on the RX 350 and AWD available. The RX F Sport had performance dampers and an adaptive variable suspension, but the driving experience was not sporty. The RX 350 returned 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined, while the RX 450h offered 30 mpg combined. The RX provided a comfortable ride and quiet cabin, but the driving dynamics were uninspiring.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered seating for five, with a roomy interior for a compact crossover. The rear seats had a 40/20/40-split, providing ample cargo space when folded. The SensaTec seats were comfortable, with the option for upgraded Vernasca leather. The X3's center console was redesigned for improved ergonomics, featuring a larger infotainment system and easy-to-access controls. The vehicle offered a power tailgate and optional hands-free opening for convenience.

The 2022 Lexus RX had a passenger volume of 99.8 cubic feet, comfortably seating four adults. The RX 350L offered a 2/3/2 seating configuration, but the third row was best suited for short trips. The cargo space in the standard RX was 16.0 cubic feet, expanding to 32.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. The RX L had limited cargo space with all seats upright. The interior featured thoughtful design elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder, but the load-in height was high due to the sporty bumper.

The 2022 BMW X3 came with BMW Live Cockpit Plus, featuring a 5.1-inch instrument panel and 10.25-inch infotainment screen. The system included navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. An optional Live Cockpit Professional offered larger screens and a fully digital experience. The X3 had a standard 12-speaker sound system, with a Harman Kardon option for M40i models. Additional tech options included a Convenience Package and Premium Package, offering features like a panoramic sunroof and heated seats.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch version available. The infotainment system was responsive but had ergonomic issues due to its placement. The RX offered voice commands and a touchpad, but the latter was difficult to use. The vehicle included six USB ports, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, wireless charging, and premium audio systems. The Lexus App provided remote engine start and vehicle settings customization.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It included adaptive LED headlights, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and active blind-spot monitoring. The Parking Assistance Package added features like a 360-degree camera view, while the Driving Assistant Professional Package offered traffic jam assistance and active lane-keep assist.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and a pre-collision system. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Lexus Enform Safety Connect. The RX was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional headlights but received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.