2022 BMW X3 vs 2023 Kia Telluride

The 2022 BMW X3 came with four variants: sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and M, with sDrive30i being the only rear-wheel-drive (RWD) model and the others all-wheel-drive (AWD). It exhibited a refreshed exterior that managed to be aggressive without being overly bold, thanks in part to a subtly enlarged kidney grille. A black sensor bar smartly placed between the grilles added to its charming yet assertive front-end look.

The headlights were revamped into adaptive full LEDs, slimmer by 0.4 inches, and the front bumper was redesigned to incorporate new vertical air intakes. The rear end got new taillights with a fascinating black surround and crab claw-shaped LEDs, which held the integrated turn signal bars. Complementing the rear upgrades were larger redesigned exhaust tips and a new bumper. Additionally, an M Sport Package brought a sportier aesthetic with exclusive aero wheels and new paints like Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue II.

Interior-wise, the X3 had a practical and elegant design. It wasn't as flamboyant as some of its rivals but boasted a sophisticated layout featuring dark oak wood trim, a panoramic moonroof, eight-way power-adjustable front sport seats, and reclinable rear seatbacks. The new perforated SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery added a touch of luxury, with premium Vernasca leather available as an option. Interior colors varied between SensaTec and genuine leather options, providing flexibility for personalization.

Conversely, the 2023 Kia Telluride, particularly the X-Line and X-Pro models, received notable styling updates. The front and rear designs were refreshed, with newer headlights, taillights, and wheel designs. It also introduced new paint options like Midnight Lake Blue and new interior colors such as Terracotta, Navy, and Sage Green.

Replacing the Nightfall Edition, the X-Line adopted a raised suspension, unique grille design, and black 20-inch wheels, giving it a robust off-road appeal. The X-Pro took it further with exclusive 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, providing a more rugged aesthetic. Despite these transformations, the Telluride's interior changes were more subtle, featuring an updated digital instrumentation panel and a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Practical modifications to the center console and a new steering wheel design were also noted, making the interior slightly more functional.

For the 2022 BMW X3, performance varied based on the model. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i were powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Both models accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6 seconds. Fuel economy for these models was reasonable, though slightly lower than the previous year’s figures.

The more dynamic M40i variant featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine coupled with a mild-hybrid system, delivering 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This model could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in an impressive 4.4 seconds. While its mild-hybrid system didn't significantly improve fuel economy, it aimed to enhance overall driving dynamics. The M40i also boasted sport brakes, an adaptive suspension, and a rear-oriented torque split, making it a more exhilarating option, particularly on winding roads and highways.

On the 2023 Kia Telluride side, the vehicle retained its 3.8-liter V6 engine, generating 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Telluride offered various driving modes including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, and a low-speed Lock setting for AWD models to evenly distribute power.

In terms of fuel economy, the Telluride X-Line achieved 24.1 mpg on highways, while the more off-road focused X-Pro returned 20.4 mpg, inclusive of off-road driving. Standard off-road capabilities were enhanced in these trims with increased ground clearance, improved approach and departure angles, and an upgraded traction control system. The X-Pro, in particular, stood out for its improved cooling system and higher towing capacity of up to 5,500 pounds, along with a self-leveling rear air suspension for better stability.

Comfort and practicality were well-represented in both vehicles. The 2022 BMW X3 comfortably seated five adults, though the middle rear seat was best suited for smaller individuals. Rear seats offered a 40/20/40-split configuration, providing ample cargo space for luggage and gear, making it practical for road trips. The total cargo space with rear seats up was decent, and folding them down increased the available space considerably.

The interior was thoughtfully designed with SensaTec faux-leather seats, though upgrading to Vernasca leather added a dash of premium comfort. The front seats had extensive adjustability, including an extendable bottom cushion, which taller drivers appreciated. Despite a minor irritation from the thigh-support handle, the overall ergonomics had improved, featuring a redesigned center console and an enlarged infotainment system screen offering better accessibility.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Telluride provided seating for seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration. It boasted Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated and ventilated seats in the front and second row, and a heated steering wheel for the SX Prestige trim. The second row was highly comfortable with sunshades, USB ports, and overhead climate controls. Access to the third row was relatively easier, and the seats offered better comfort compared to many competitors. However, cargo space behind the third row was somewhat limited at 21 cubic feet but expanded to 46 cubic feet with the third-row seats folded and up to 87 cubic feet with both rear rows down.

Both vehicles offered intelligent storage solutions and features to aid convenience, like Kia’s smart power tailgate with an automatic closing function, ideal for hands-free operation when your hands were full.

BMW’s in-car technology for the 2022 X3 was a blend of innovation and quirks. The standard BMW Live Cockpit Plus featured a 5.1-inch color display instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. It included navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot among other digital features. The optional Live Cockpit Professional expanded both displays to 12.3 inches and added cloud-based navigation for improved functionality. The tech package could be perceived as either innovative or cumbersome, depending on the user.

A 12-speaker HiFi sound system was standard, with an optional 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround system for those seeking superior audio. Options like the Convenience Package added key features such as comfort access keyless entry, panoramic sunroof, and lumbar support, while the Premium Package included additional heating options and gesture control.

For the 2023 Kia Telluride, technology saw substantial upgrades with a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and navigation with Kia Connect services like a Wi-Fi hotspot. The new digital-key technology allowed your smartphone or smartwatch to act as the vehicle’s key, enhancing convenience. The optional head-up display showed crucial data and worked well even under polarized sunglasses, as verified by a co-driver.

Passengers had access to six USB charging ports, and features like Driver Talk and Quiet Mode provided easier communication and control within the cabin. The Telluride also included interesting additions like the Full Display Mirror, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and leading Vehicle Departure Alert, enhancing both safety and driving experience.

The 2022 BMW X3 boasted a five-star crash safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and aimed to continue its Top Safety Pick+ streak with IIHS ratings yet to be published. Standard safety features included adaptive LED headlights, rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and several collision avoidance systems. Optional packages added advanced features like parking assistance and traffic jam assistance for a comprehensive safety suite.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Kia Telluride expanded its already extensive list of safety features. All models came with forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping and centering assists, blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and automatic emergency braking. New additions for 2023 included junction turning assist, intelligent speed limit assist, and Highway Drive Assist 2.0 with semi-autonomous driving capabilities.

The Telluride SX and higher trims also offered advanced collision avoidance features, surround-view cameras, front parking sensors, and a rear occupant alert system with ultrasonic sensors. The Highway Drive Assist 2.0 was particularly noteworthy, providing smooth adaptive inputs and thus a reassuring experience during stop-and-go traffic conditions.