2022 BMW X3 vs 2023 Lexus RX

The 2022 BMW X3 was available in four variants, with the sDrive30i being the only rear-wheel-drive model, while the others were all-wheel-drive. The exterior design 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, complemented by new paint options and aerodynamically optimized wheels. The interior was well-appointed with dark oak wood trim, power-adjustable front sport seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The X3 offered various interior color choices and ambient lighting options, creating a comfortable and customizable environment.

The 2023 Lexus RX was shorter in height, broader in width, and had a longer wheelbase, offering more cargo space than its predecessor. The exterior design featured a spindle-style grille, upswept body sides, and a light-blade taillight design. The RX maintained a familiar yet fresh look, distinct from the smaller Lexus NX. Inside, the RX had a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a touchscreen display. The quality was high, with options for NuLuxe artificial leather or genuine leather. The RX was available in several trims, including hybrid options, and was expected to maintain a similar price point to the previous model.

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 rated at 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350 FWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, while the AWD version did so in 7.2 seconds. The RX 350 FWD was expected to average 25 mpg combined, and the AWD version 24 mpg. The RX 350 Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer and body motion, while the F Sport Handling trim offered a more secure ride with an adaptive suspension. The turbo engine provided better performance at higher altitudes and improved fuel economy compared to the previous V6, though it lacked the same refinement.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered seating for five, with a spacious interior for a compact crossover. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40-split, providing ample cargo space when folded. The SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, with the option for upgraded Vernasca leather. The X3's interior had improved ergonomics, with a redesigned center console and a larger infotainment system. The vehicle offered various adjustability options, though the thigh-support cushion control handle could be intrusive for some drivers.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 provided a comfortable interior, with the F Sport Handling package offering sport seat bolsters for better support. The RX 350 Luxury trim featured premium leather upholstery, ten-way power-adjustable seats, and a heated steering wheel. The back seat was roomy, with good leg support and legroom, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. The RX offered useful storage areas and improved cargo space, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down.

The 2022 BMW X3 came with BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, featuring a 5.1-inch color display instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. It included navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa integration, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. An optional Live Cockpit Professional enlarged both screens to 12.3 inches. The X3 offered a 12-speaker HiFi sound system, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system for M40i models. Additional tech options included a Convenience Package and a Premium Package, offering features like a panoramic sunroof and a head-up display.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and connected services plans. Drive Connect, free for three years, offered Destination Assist and Intelligent Assistant voice recognition. The system allowed user profiles and streaming through embedded apps. The RX offered a 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system, digital instrumentation, and Digital Latch door handles. A color head-up display was available, though it could be difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

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, active blind-spot monitoring, and more. The available Parking Assistance Package added parking assistance plus and a 360-degree surround camera view. The Driving Assistant Professional Package included traffic jam assistance and active lane-keep assist.

The 2023 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driving assistance systems like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. New semi-autonomous driving technologies included Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist. LSS+ 3.0 was impressive but had some flaws, such as unmarked adaptive cruise controls and curve-speed reduction technology.