2022 BMW X3 vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

BMW’s 2022 X3 was offered in four variants: sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and M. The sDrive30i model was rear-wheel-drive (RWD) while the others were exclusively all-wheel-drive (AWD). For 2022, the X3 underwent a revision in its exterior design, adopting a more aggressive stance. The kidney grille was notably larger but didn't quite reach the exaggerated proportions seen on other BMW models. A black sensor bar was placed between the grilles, lending the front an almost gap-toothed smile.

The X3's adaptive full LED headlights became slimmer by 0.4 inches and now included vertical air intakes and a newly designed front bumper. The rear of the vehicle featured all-new taillights with a black surround and claw-shaped brake light LEDs, resembling crab hands. Bigger redesigned exhaust tips and a new rear bumper complemented the modernized horizontal-styled exterior lighting. The 2022 BMW X3 was also equipped with nineteen-inch gray aluminum-alloy wheels and all-season run-flat tires.

Adding more options, the M Sport Package for the sDrive30i and xDrive30i models provided larger front air intakes, a sportier rear bumper, and darker side air-curtain panels. The Shadowline Package took the black accents even further, adding black frames and inserts to the windows, roof rails, and grille. The M40i variant added a BMW M grille, high-gloss black double-bar inserts, and distinctive M-designed light-alloy wheels.

In the interior of the 2022 X3, a clean and efficient design prevailed, featuring dark oak wood trim, an anthracite headliner, eight-way power-adjustable front sport seats, adjustable side bolsters, reclinable rear seatbacks, and tri-zone automatic climate control. The standard upholstery was perforated SensaTec synthetic leather, with the option of upgraded premium Vernasca leather. Standard on the M40i variant, a panoramic moonroof was also available in the sDrive30i and xDrive30i models. Seating color options varied by model and material, including combinations of black, beige, cognac, red, oyster, and mocha. Eleven ambient lighting color combos provided additional customizable comfort.

Toyota introduced the RAV4 in North America in 1996, and it immediately resonated with young buyers as an alternative to larger SUVs. Through five generations, the RAV4 transitioned from a "cute-ute" nickname to a mature and sophisticated crossover SUV, frequently topping the U.S. sales charts.

The 2022 RAV4 maintained the essence of modern crossovers with angular wheel arches and sharp body lines that contrasted with its curved body-end forms. The headlights and grinning fascia openings evoked a playful yet aggressive demeanor, accentuated by exceptional external fit and finish.

Internally, the RAV4 offered a layered dashboard with contrasting colors and textures, centered around an uncomplicated center stack and a thoughtfully mounted touchscreen interface. A unique geometric pattern derived from a circuit board design tied various elements of the interior together, contributing to a cohesive aesthetic. Standard 19-inch matte gray alloy wheels on higher trims completed its polished look.

The 2022 BMW X3 was available with different powertrains matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddles shifters. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i variants featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, allowing a 0-60 mph time of 6 seconds. Fuel economy ratings for the sDrive30i were 23 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. The xDrive30i offered slightly lower numbers at 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined.

The 2022 X3 M40i was equipped with a more powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a new mild-hybrid system, producing 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed it to sprint from 0-60 mph in an impressive 4.4 seconds. However, the added power and hybrid system also contributed to a fuel economy of 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined.

Driving the xDrive30i revealed a vehicle that was quick enough for freeway maneuvers and compliant enough to absorb road imperfections, despite some wind noise. The M40i variant, on the other hand, delivered a more exhilarating experience with its enhanced power and additional M-specific performance features, such as flap-controlled sports exhaust, sport brakes, adaptive suspension, and an AWD system optimized for a rear-oriented torque split.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three distinct powertrain options. The standard gasoline model featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It operated with an eight-speed automatic transmission and came in both FWD and AWD configurations. The FWD variants achieved fuel economy ratings of 27-28 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined, while the AWD variants returned slightly lower figures.

The RAV4 Hybrid also utilized a 2.5-liter engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 217 horsepower. The hybrid version employed an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) and achieved impressive fuel economy ratings of 41 mpg city, 38 mpg highway, and 40 mpg combined.

The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid was the high-performance variant, producing 302 horsepower and offering standard AWD with an eCVT. It could drive up to 42 miles on electricity alone and boasted an efficiency rating of 94 MPGe combined. The RAV4 Prime achieved fuel economy ratings of 40 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 38 mpg combined, showcasing impressive fuel efficiency alongside robust power.

Our tested gasoline AWD Adventure model provided smooth and immediate acceleration with no noticeable turbo lag, coupled with a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The RAV4 retained its car-like handling, featuring four-wheel independent suspension, stabilizer bars, and AWD models equipped with Multi-Terrain Select tuning and dynamic torque vectoring.

In terms of practicality, the 2022 BMW X3 offered comfortable seating for five, with a rear middle seat more suitable for smaller occupants. The rear seats were versatile, featuring a 40/20/40 split that allowed for generous cargo space when folded down. The X3 provided ample cargo room to accommodate several backpacks and additional photography equipment. The higher trims came with the option of enhanced leather upholstery for additional comfort.

Ergonomics in the X3 had improved, offering better accessibility to essential touchpoints. The redesigned center console closely resembled newer BMW models and included a larger standard 10.25-inch infotainment screen with an optional 12.3-inch touchscreen. Storage options included a power tailgate and hands-free opening for added convenience.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, on the other hand, offered impressive cargo capacity for its class. With 37.5 cubic feet of space behind the second row and 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, the RAV4 excelled in practical utility. It also featured a healthy payload capacity of 1,050-1,230 pounds, depending on the configuration. Towing capabilities varied across trims, with Adventure and TRD Off-Road models rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Inside, the RAV4 provided ample space for four adults and could accommodate five, if necessary. The cabin was equipped with numerous storage areas, including cupholders, bottle holders, a roomy glove compartment, and covered center console storage. The split-folding rear bench seat allowed for efficient utilization of space and versatility for cargo needs.

The 2022 BMW X3 came with BMW Live Cockpit Plus, which included iDrive 7 telematics, a 5.1-inch color display instrument panel, and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. Standard features included navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, Amazon Alexa integration, two USB ports, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and digital features like a personal assistant and real-time traffic updates. A larger 12.3-inch screen was available with the optional Live Cockpit Professional package.

The standard 12-speaker HiFi sound system could be upgraded to a Harman Kardon surround sound system with 16 speakers on the M40i model. Other tech options included a Convenience Package and a Premium Package that added various features like a heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, a head-up display, and gesture control.

In the 2022 Toyota RAV4, the base models featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a six-speaker audio system, and compatibility with Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims upgraded to a 9-inch touchscreen, while the Premium Audio setup available on the Limited and RAV4 Prime XSE models included an 11-speaker JBL audio system with navigation.

The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology, offering five USB ports, two 12-volt/120-watt auxiliary power outlets, an available 120-volt/1,500-watt AC power outlet, and blue ambient lighting. Additional tech features included a Qi-compatible wireless charging pad, a bird’s-eye view camera system with perimeter scan, and a 10-inch color head-up display.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA, and its 2018 model was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, with similar safety standards applying to the 2022 model. Safety features on the X3 included adaptive LED headlights, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, active blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear collision avoidance, and park distance control with auto braking. Optional packages offered additional features like traffic jam assistance, a back-up assistant, and active lane-keep assist.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System, which included vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock braking, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 was standard across all RAV4 models, featuring a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, lane-tracing assist, and road sign assist. Higher trims added features like a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, rear cross-traffic braking system, and front and rear parking assist with automatic braking.

The 2022 RAV4 earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick accolade, with the RAV4 Prime receiving the Top Safety Pick+ rating. The NHTSA awarded the 2022 RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid its highest five-star rating.