2022 BMW X3 vs 2023 Toyota Sienna

For the 2022 BMW X3, there was a noticeable streamlining in the available variants, reducing the lineup to the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and M models. The sDrive30i was the sole rear-wheel-drive option, while the others offered all-wheel-drive capabilities.

The 2022 X3 underwent an exterior refresh that subtly intensified its aggressive stance. One of the major highlights was the enlargement of the iconic kidney grille, although not as dramatic as seen in some other BMW models. The black sensor bar positioned between the grilles added a quirky touch to the design. Moreover, the adaptive full LED headlights were made slimmer by 0.4 inches and incorporated vertical air intakes along with a redesigned front bumper. The rear saw enhancements with new taillights featuring black surrounds and pincer claw-shaped LEDs for the brake lights, giving it a futuristic touch.

The updates continued with larger redesigned exhaust tips and a new bumper to complement the horizontal exterior lighting. The X3 sDrive30i and xDrive30i models gained an M Sport Package that included more aggressive air intakes and sporty rear enhancements. The Shadowline Package added a blackout effect to various parts like window frames and roof rails, giving the vehicle a meaner look. The X3 M40i version brought even more M-specific elements, such as high-gloss black double-bar grille inserts with the M logo and aerodynamic exterior mirrors.

Inside, the 2022 X3 showcased a sophisticated and refined cabin layout. Dark oak wood trim and an anthracite headliner featured prominently. The eight-way power-adjustable front Sport seats and reclinable rear seats added to the comfort. Standard equipment included tri-zone automatic climate control and new perforated SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery, with Vernasca leather available as an upgrade. Additionally, a panoramic moonroof came standard on the X3 M40i and was optional on other models. The interior colors varied, with multiple choices for both synthetic and genuine leather options.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sienna demonstrated a distinct effort to move away from traditional minivan aesthetics. Toyota aimed for a modern look, inspired by Japanese bullet trains, especially noticeable in the front-end styling. Some trims offered 20-inch wheels, giving the minivan an athletic edge.

The 2023 Sienna offered an extensive range of trims, from the base LE to the high-end Platinum, along with a new 25th Anniversary Special Edition. The XLE trim emerged as a practical choice for many, introducing features like LED fog lights, power-sliding doors, and a power liftgate—essential for families with children.

Inside, the Sienna Platinum model left a positive impression with its high-quality brown leather upholstery and elegant wood-grain accents on the center console. The Sienna could accommodate either seven or eight passengers, with the LE and XLE trims offering the eight-seat configuration perfect for larger families. The flexibility of the middle bench seat allowed for three-across car seats in the middle row, enhancing practicality for families.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided a range of powertrains across its models, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission complete 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. The 0-60 mph time was pegged at 6 seconds for both RWD and AWD versions. Fuel economy for the sDrive30i stood at an EPA-rated 23 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while the xDrive30i came in slightly lower at 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined.

Despite performance being steady and satisfactory for the base models, the X3 M40i took things up a notch with a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine paired with a new mild-hybrid system. This setup churned out 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0-60 mph sprint in 4.4 seconds. The M40i offered more exhilarating driving dynamics and a more engaging driving experience compared to the base models. However, the mild-hybrid system brought minimal improvements to fuel economy, with ratings of 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined.

For the 2023 Toyota Sienna, Toyota shifted exclusively to hybrid powertrains in its fourth-generation model launched in 2020. The Sienna's power came from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two front-mounted electric motors, and an additional rear electric motor for AWD versions. The combined system output was 245 horsepower which, although adequate, felt underwhelming for the vehicle's size and weight. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) was functional but often resulted in a noisy and less refined driving experience compared to competitors like the Honda Odyssey.

Nevertheless, the Sienna's chassis and steering were commendably engineered, providing a nimble and surprisingly enjoyable drive for a large minivan. City driving was particularly easy due to the light steering and tight turning radius. The Sienna featured several driving modes, including EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport. However, EV mode was of limited practical use, as the gas engine frequently engaged, and Eco mode overly dampened throttle response. Sport mode, while present, did not significantly alter the driving dynamics to make it feel less like a minivan.

The 2022 BMW X3 proved to be a practical and comfortable vehicle, offering ample space for five passengers. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40 split, enhancing versatility. With the seats up, the cargo area accommodated all of our bags and equipment comfortably. In fact, there was enough space to fit additional carry-on luggage if needed. The BMW's power tailgate and optional hands-free operation added convenience.

Interior comfort was high, with SensaTec faux-leather seats offering good support, although the upgraded Vernasca leather was noticeably more luxurious. Adjustability options for every seat were plentiful, but the driver's thigh-support cushion could be problematic for shorter drivers, as it intruded upon legroom when extended. The X3’s redesigned center console and enlarged infotainment system provided a user-friendly experience, with the standard 10.25-inch screen and an available 12.3-inch touchscreen.

On the flip side, the 2023 Toyota Sienna excelled in creating a family-friendly interior with thoughtful storage solutions. The deep floor and spacious interior allowed for 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, extending to 75.2 cubic feet with the third row folded down, and up to 101 cubic feet in total. Although these figures fell slightly short compared to some minivan competitors, the space was still generous.

However, the Sienna's middle-row seats were non-removable and didn't fold into the floor, reducing total cargo space compared to the Honda Odyssey and Chrysler Pacifica. Yet, for those regularly using the middle row, the Sienna's captain's chairs with extendable ottomans were highly functional and comfortable. The middle row also slid on long tracks, providing excellent flexibility for regulating passenger legroom, including for third-row occupants.

The 2022 BMW X3 boasted an array of technically advanced features. Standard across the board was the BMW Live Cockpit Plus with the iDrive 7 system, incorporating a 5.1-inch color display instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. The system included standard navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, Amazon Alexa integration, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Optional upgrades to the Live Cockpit Professional offered 12.3-inch screens and cloud-based navigation for enhanced accuracy. The 12-speaker HiFi sound system came standard, with an available Harman Kardon surround sound system providing 600 watts of premium audio quality. Tech options included keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, lumbar support, heated seating, and gesture control.

Conversely, the 2023 Toyota Sienna felt outdated in the technological department. Unlike the latest models from Toyota, the Sienna used an older infotainment interface equipped with core features like SiriusXM, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and optional navigation. While the system included physical buttons, which were increasingly rare in modern cars, the interface seemed clunky and outdated. Features like Android Auto needed a wired connection and required navigation through the menu for access. Additionally, the 9-inch touchscreen, although adequate, fell short compared to more modern setups. However, the 12-speaker JBL audio system delivered satisfactory sound quality.

The 2022 BMW X3 earned high praise for its safety features, receiving a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. Though IIHS results for the 2022 model were not available, its predecessor had been awarded a Top Safety Pick+. Standard safety features included adaptive LED headlights, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, active blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward-collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection. The Driving Assistant Professional Package upgraded the safety suite with traffic jam assistance, front cross-traffic alert, and active lane-keeping functions.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna mirrored this performance by receiving a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS for the 2022 model. Toyota equipped the Sienna with advanced driver-assistance systems, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning with steering assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. The Sienna exemplified Toyota's commitment to safety, offering robust features without some of the gimmicky elements seen in competitors.