2022 BMW X3 vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 BMW X3 was available in four variants, with the sDrive30i being the only rear-wheel-drive model, while the others featured all-wheel drive. The exterior design was slightly more aggressive, with a larger kidney grille and adaptive full LED headlights that were slimmer by 0.4 inches. The rear showcased new taillights with a black surround and pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs. The X3 offered nine finishes, including new metallic colors like Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue II. The interior was well-appointed with dark oak wood trim, eight-way power-adjustable front Sport seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery was standard, with Vernasca leather as an option.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, remained a stylish and high-quality choice in the compact crossover segment. It was available with a standard 187-horsepower four-cylinder engine or a more powerful 256-hp turbocharged engine. The CX-5 was praised for its quality, refinement, and sophistication, with a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. The interior featured premium Nappa leather upholstery in the 2.5 Turbo Signature model, but the infotainment system was a point of frustration. The CX-5 offered a range of trims, with prices starting at $26,700 and going up to $39,650 for the top variant.

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 M40i variant boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The M40i's fuel economy was 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The EPA-rated fuel economy was 26 mpg combined. The 2.5 Turbo variant delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular fuel, with a combined fuel economy of 24 mpg. The CX-5's updates improved structural rigidity, suspension dampening, and interior noise reduction, enhancing its driving dynamics. The turbocharged engine provided a smooth and quick acceleration, with a firm and connected ride quality.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered a spacious interior with seating for five, though the rear middle seat was best suited for smaller passengers. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40-split, providing ample cargo space. The SensaTec seats were comfortable, with Vernasca leather as an upgrade. The X3's redesigned center console included a larger infotainment system, with a 10.25-inch standard screen and an optional 12.3-inch touchscreen. The vehicle's ergonomics were improved, with easier access to controls and a smudge-free matte finish on buttons.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's front seats were modified for improved comfort and support, with power adjustment available on higher trims. The Signature trim featured Nappa leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated seats. However, the CX-5's technology, storage space, and rear-seat room were less impressive. The cargo area offered 30.9 cubic feet of space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The infotainment system lacked a conversational voice recognition system, making it less user-friendly compared to competitors.

The 2022 BMW X3 came with BMW Live Cockpit Plus, featuring a 5.1-inch color display and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, with an optional upgrade to 12.3 inches. The system included navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa integration. A 12-speaker HiFi sound system was standard, with a Harman Kardon surround sound system available on the M40i. The X3 offered various tech packages, including a Convenience Package and a Premium Package with additional features like a heated steering wheel and gesture control.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system had a 10.25-inch display but was criticized for its user interface. The system required memorization and conscious thought to operate, lacking a helpful voice recognition system. Despite this, it offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. Upper trims included a 10-speaker Bose audio system and a surround-view camera system for easier parking.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It included adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and active blind-spot monitoring. The available Parking Assistance Package added features like a 360-degree camera view, while the Driving Assistant Professional Package offered traffic jam assistance and active lane-keep assist.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. The i-Activsense suite included adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and a head-up display. The 2.5 Turbo Signature trim added a surround-view camera system and Traffic Jam Assist. However, the CX-5 lacked a warning for driving without headlights at night, a potential safety concern.