2022 BMW X3 vs 2023 Lincoln Navigator

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 pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs. The rear was updated with larger exhaust tips and a new bumper, complemented by an M Sport Package for certain models. The X3 offered nine finishes, with new colors like Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue II. The interior was well-appointed with dark oak wood trim, power-adjustable front Sport seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery was standard, with Vernasca leather as an option. Ambient lighting with 11 color combos added to the cabin's ambiance.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, while not significantly updated from its 2022 refresh, maintained its luxurious appeal. The test vehicle was a triple-black Navigator Reserve model, featuring a Monochromatic Package with black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim. The interior was upscale, with real wood trim panels and chrome accents, though some chrome plastic switchgear detracted from the luxury feel. The cabin was spacious, with power-deploying running boards for easy access. The Navigator's 30-way Perfect Position power-adjustable front seats offered heating, ventilation, and massage, though they required frequent adjustments for comfort. The second-row captain’s chairs and third-row seats provided ample space for passengers. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, especially in the extended-length Navigator L model, which offered significantly more room for luggage.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i models 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 sDrive30i had an EPA fuel economy rating of 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, with a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine and a mild-hybrid system, produced 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. The M40i was EPA-rated at 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. The mild-hybrid system provided a smoother start/stop operation but did not improve fuel economy.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a 4WD drivetrain. The Navigator had an EPA fuel economy rating of 18 mpg combined, but during testing, it averaged 15.6 mpg. The SUV offered five Lincoln Drive Modes, including Conserve, Normal, Excite, Slippery, and Deep Conditions, with an additional Hill Climb mode available with the towing package. The adaptive damping suspension with Road Preview aimed to improve ride quality, but the Navigator's ride was often harsh over smaller bumps and floated over larger dips. In Excite mode, the suspension stiffened, improving ride quality but reducing fuel efficiency. The Navigator's size was a challenge in urban environments, and its nearly three-ton curb weight affected braking performance on mountain roads.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided comfort and practicality with seating for five and ample storage space. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40-split, offering enough cargo room for backpacks and equipment. A power tailgate was standard, with an optional hands-free opening. The SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, with the upgraded Vernasca leather offering more softness. The X3's sport seats were supportive, though the thigh-support cushion's control handle could be intrusive for some drivers. The redesigned center console and larger infotainment system improved ergonomics and accessibility.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, with roomy seats in all three rows and a spacious cargo area. Power-deploying running boards facilitated cabin access, and the 30-way Perfect Position front seats offered extensive adjustability, though they required frequent adjustments for comfort. The second-row captain’s chairs and third-row seats provided ample space for passengers. The Navigator's storage space was generous, with large trays and smaller compartments throughout the cabin. The extended-length Navigator L model offered significantly more cargo space, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, including 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, 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 a Harman Kardon surround sound system available on M40i models. The Convenience Package added keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, and lumbar support, while the Premium Package included heated seats and a head-up display.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display, a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and an available widescreen head-up display. The Sync 4 infotainment system included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and Alexa Built-in. The digital assistant excelled in voice recognition, and the 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided excellent sound quality. The Lincoln Way smartphone app and Phone As A Key technology allowed owners to unlock, start, and drive the SUV using a digital key. The Lincoln Play system offered rear-seat passengers dual touchscreens, though they were often ignored in favor of personal devices.

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 rear cross-traffic alert. The Parking Assistance Package added parking assistance plus and a 360-degree surround camera view. The Driving Assistant Professional Package included traffic jam assistance, front cross-traffic alert, and active lane-keep assist.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0 and Co-Pilot360 2.0 Drive packages, featuring Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BlueCruise. BlueCruise allowed hands-free driving on designated highways but required frequent driver intervention. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.