2022 BMW X3 vs 2023 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2022 BMW X3 presented a refined yet assertive exterior design, available in four variants: sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and M. The sDrive30i was the only rear-wheel-drive model, while the others featured all-wheel drive. The X3's exterior updates included a slightly larger kidney grille, adaptive full LED headlights, and redesigned taillights with a pincer claw shape. The rear was enhanced with larger exhaust tips and a new bumper, while the M Sport Package added sporty elements like larger air intakes and a sportier rear bumper. The interior was well-appointed with dark oak wood trim, SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery, and a panoramic moonroof, offering a comfortable and stylish cabin experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling changes, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a squared-off rear bumper for improved aerodynamics. The ID.4's design was distinctively EV, lacking the traditional SUV profile and ground clearance. Built on VW's MEB platform, the ID.4 offered a minimalist interior design with quality materials, including leatherette upholstery made partly from recycled fibers. The interior changes for 2023 included a conventional lid for the center console and improved phone storage. The ID.4 provided a spacious cabin with more legroom and headroom than many affordable EVs, making it a practical choice for those seeking an electric SUV.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the sDrive30i and xDrive30i models, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Both models achieved a 0-60 mph time of 6 seconds. The M40i variant featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, delivering 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. The X3's fuel economy varied, with the sDrive30i achieving 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, while the M40i was rated at 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The X3 provided a balanced driving experience, with the M40i offering more dynamic performance.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came with two battery options: a new 62-kWh pack for the Standard and S models, and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro, Pro S, and Pro S Plus models. The single-motor RWD models produced 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor AWD models offered 295 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds. The ID.4's smaller battery pack reduced curb weight by 240 pounds, enhancing acceleration and handling. While the ID.4's AWD version rivaled hot hatchbacks in acceleration, it lacked the handling prowess of sportier models. The ID.4's regenerative braking system allowed for coasting and a more familiar driving experience for EV newcomers.

The 2022 BMW X3 excelled in comfort and practicality, offering seating for five and ample storage space. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40-split, providing flexibility for cargo and passengers. With the rear seats up, the X3 accommodated backpacks and equipment, and with the seats folded, it offered even more cargo space. The interior featured SensaTec faux-leather seats, with an option for Vernasca leather, and a redesigned center console with a larger infotainment system. The X3's ergonomics improved with easier access to controls, and the infotainment system offered a customizable experience with various control options.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided generous interior space, with more legroom and headroom than many affordable EVs. It offered 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. The ID.4's towing capacity was notable for an entry-level EV, with RWD models capable of towing 2,200 pounds and AWD models 2,700 pounds. The interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the center console and improved phone storage. The ID.4's three-zone climate control and heated rear seats added to its practicality and comfort.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, offering a 5.1-inch color display instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. The system 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, providing a fully digital experience. The X3's sound system options included a standard 12-speaker HiFi system and an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system. The X3 also offered a Convenience Package and a Premium Package, adding features like keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, and heated seats.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, replacing the previous 10.0-inch screen on lower trims. The infotainment system received software updates for improved responsiveness, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remained standard. The ID.4's user interface included sharp graphics, natural-language voice recognition, and haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation assistance. Despite the haptic controls, the voice recognition system offered a more convenient way to manage in-car functions.

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

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 also earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The 2022 model received the IIHS' Top Safety Pick+ rating, with top scores in crash tests and front crash prevention. The ID.4's standard driver-assist features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and VW's Travel Assist 2.0. For 2023, the ID.4 added Park Assist Plus, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.