2022 BMW X3 vs 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

The 2022 BMW X3, redesigned for the year, offered a polished yet aggressive exterior with four variants to choose from. BMW's signature kidney grille grew larger, and a black sensor bar added a unique smiley touch. The slimmed-down adaptive LED headlights incorporated vertical air intakes and a redesigned bumper. At the rear, new taillights featured a "crab hand" design, giving it a distinctive look. Larger exhaust tips and an enhanced rear bumper aligned with the modern look. Optional packages like the M Sport Package and Shadowline Package elevated the aesthetics with darker, sportier finishes. The X3 was available in nine paint finishes including new colors like Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue II. Standard 19-inch gray aluminum-alloy wheels matched with all-season run-flat tires were upgraded for better fuel economy for the sDrive30i and xDrive30i models.

Inside, the X3 was refined with dark oak wood trim, Sport seats, a panoramic moonroof, tri-zone climate control, and perforated SensaTec upholstery. Higher trims could be optioned with Vernasca leather. Interior colors varied between synthetic leather and genuine leather options, and ambient lighting with 11 color options added to the sophisticated atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport embraced a minimalist and understated luxury aesthetic. Described with “modernist” and “reductive” terms, the design shunned flashy elements. Limited options like the Firenze Red paint and diamond-turned 23-inch wheels were available for those seeking some flair. The test model came in an Eiger Gray paint with silver 23-inch wheels and a Black Exterior Pack, exuding refined elegance. The interior displayed a Deep Garnet over Ebony theme with aluminum and black trim, featuring high-end Windsor leather upholstery.

Highlights included thin roof pillars and a low dashboard contributing to the airy cabin feel. Premium LED headlights, flush-mounted door handles, and surface LED taillights defined the new design. The Range Rover Sport boasted a sleek exterior with an emphasis on premium details over aggressive aesthetics.

All 2022 BMW X3 models were equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered two engine options. The X3 sDrive30i and xDrive30i models featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 6 seconds. Fuel economy for the sDrive30i was 23 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while the xDrive30i returned slightly less at 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined.

For a more thrilling drive, the X3 M40i came with a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine, bolstered by a mild-hybrid system, generating 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. This model accelerated to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The mild-hybrid system, although subtle, offered additional performance with a sprint of 11 hp. Despite the new system, fuel economy dropped to 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport sought balance between off-road capability and on-road refinement. It offered a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with mild-hybrid tech: the lower-powered SE P360 variant made 355 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, while the SE Dynamic P400 variant delivered 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, a PHEV drivetrain in the Autobiography P440e produced 434 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, with a 51-mile electric range. For early 2023 models, a limited 523 hp twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 was available.

On-road, the Range Rover Sport accelerated from 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds, with impressive fuel economy of 21 mpg combined. It featured adaptive damping air suspension for optimal ride comfort and handling. Despite its capabilities, the SUV felt heavy and less agile on twisty roads compared to its rivals from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. Off-road, the Range Rover Sport excelled with 11.1 inches of ground clearance, advanced suspension, and multiple terrain management systems enhancing its legendary off-road reputation.

The 2022 BMW X3 balanced performance with practicality. Designed as a five-seater, it comfortably accommodated adults, even in the rear middle seat suitable for shorter adults or children. The 40/20/40-split rear seats offered versatile cargo capabilities. With the rear seats up, the X3 provided ample room for backpacks and photography equipment. Additional suitcases could fit if needed, and the power tailgate, with an optional hands-free feature, added convenience. The SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, although upgrading to Vernasca leather added more luxury. The redesigned center console, optional 12.3-inch touchscreen, and user-friendly controls enhanced the overall ergonomics.

On the other hand, the 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport continued the Command Driving Position tradition, offering an open, airy feel. The air suspension kneeling feature facilitated easier entry and exit for shorter passengers. Front seats provided high comfort with power-adjustability, heating, and ventilation. Optional features included a massage function, soft-close doors, and Cabin Air Purification Pro.

Rear seat comfort was less optimal, providing improved but still limited legroom. Hard front seatback panels and narrow door openings hindered passenger comfort and access. The cargo area, at 31.9 cubic feet, accommodated suitcases laid on their sides, and lowering the rear seats expanded space to 53 cubic feet. Land Rover cleverly integrated storage solutions such as netted pockets and a bin under the center armrest.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, featuring a 10.25-inch infotainment screen expandable to a 12.3-inch, fully-digital display. Standard tech included navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa integration, WiFi hotspot, and multiple connected features. Optional technology included a 12.3-inch Live Cockpit Professional and a Harman Kardon sound system with 600 watts. The Premium Package added heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and more.

Conversely, the 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport came equipped with a 13.7-inch digital dashboard and a 13.1-inch touchscreen with haptic feedback. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. However, the Pivi Pro infotainment system was often confusing and frustrating, failing to perform basic functions reliably. Despite its cutting-edge features, such as next-gen Active Noise Cancellation and premium Meridian audio systems, the tech experience fell short of expectations.

The 2022 BMW X3 earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and added several advanced safety features for 2022. These included adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward-collision warning with pedestrian/cyclist detection. Additional safety packages offered parking assistance plus, active park distance control, and a 360-degree surround-view camera. Enhancements also involved traffic jam assistant and active lane-keeping assist.

Land Rover equipped the 2023 Range Rover Sport with advanced safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additional features included automatic high-beams, driver monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, and an intuitive surround-view camera system with ClearSight Ground View. Wade Sensing and Remote Park Assist added convenience, although Adaptive Cruise Control with steering assist was slower in responsiveness and unreliable during freeway curves.