2022 BMW X3 vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 marked a significant departure from its predecessor, the original Ioniq, by establishing itself as a standalone brand dedicated to electric vehicles. This new model showcased a futuristic design with its Parametric Pixel theme, reminiscent of retro video games, which was evident in its extensive use of LED lighting. The exterior design was a blend of minimalistic lines and intricate details, creating a unique visual appeal. Inside, the Ioniq 5 offered a serene and spacious cabin, emphasizing comfort and sustainability with its use of eco-friendly materials. The "Living Space" design theme provided a relaxing environment, complete with features like a "Relaxation" mode for the driver's seat, making it a comfortable choice for long journeys.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 presented a more traditional yet refined design. The exterior updates included a slightly larger kidney grille and adaptive full LED headlights, giving it a more aggressive stance. The interior was well-appointed, featuring high-quality materials and a clean, efficient layout. The X3's cabin was designed for practicality and comfort, with ample space for passengers and cargo. The seats were supportive, and the overall design exuded a sense of luxury without being overly flashy. The X3's interior was functional and user-friendly, with a focus on providing a comfortable driving experience.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the base SE Standard Range model, which featured a 128-kW rear-mounted electric motor producing 168 horsepower and a range of 220 miles. The extended-range variants, available in SE, SEL, and Limited trims, boasted a larger 168-kW motor delivering 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 303 miles. The AWD versions added a dual-motor system, increasing power to 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, though the range dropped to 256 miles. The Ioniq 5 provided a smooth and composed ride, with four drive modes, including Sport mode, which added excitement but reduced range. The vehicle's regenerative braking system, adjustable via paddle shifters, enhanced the driving experience.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission across all models. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i variants were powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 6 seconds. The M40i model offered a more powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, generating 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The X3 delivered a balanced performance, with the M40i providing a more exhilarating driving experience. However, the mild-hybrid system did not significantly improve fuel economy, with the M40i rated at 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5, built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), offered a spacious interior with a longer wheelbase than the seven-passenger Hyundai Palisade. It provided 133.7 cubic feet of total interior volume, surpassing competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.4. The Ioniq 5 prioritized passenger comfort with 106.5 cubic feet of passenger volume, while the cargo space was slightly smaller at 27.2 cubic feet. The interior featured a moveable center console and comfortable leatherette seats, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided a roomy interior for a compact crossover, accommodating five passengers comfortably. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40-split, offering flexibility for cargo and passenger needs. The X3's cargo space was generous, with enough room for backpacks and additional luggage. The SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, with the option to upgrade to Vernasca leather for added luxury. The redesigned center console and larger infotainment system improved ergonomics and accessibility, making the X3 a practical choice for daily use.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 impressed with its advanced technology, featuring a high-voltage energy-dense system with vehicle-to-load capabilities. It supported ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% battery capacity in 18 minutes, and offered two years of unlimited 30-minute fast-charging sessions through Electrify America. The Ioniq 5's multimedia features included a redesigned Blue Link app, digital key, and over-the-air updates. The 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment were elegant and intuitive, with an anti-glare coating for improved visibility.

The 2022 BMW X3 came equipped with BMW Live Cockpit Plus and iDrive 7 telematics, featuring a 10.25-inch infotainment screen and a 5.1-inch color display instrument panel. The system included navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa integration. The optional Live Cockpit Professional offered larger 12.3-inch screens and cloud-based navigation. The X3's technology package was comprehensive, with a 12-speaker HiFi sound system and optional Harman Kardon surround sound. Additional tech options included a Convenience Package and a Premium Package, enhancing comfort and convenience.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and front- and rear-collision avoidance. The Highway Drive Assist I system offered Level 2 semi-autonomous driving with machine-learning adaptive cruise control. The Ioniq 5 also introduced a head-up display with augmented reality overlays, though it could be distracting in certain situations. While official safety ratings were not yet available, Hyundai's track record suggested high marks for the Ioniq 5.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with adaptive LED headlights, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, and various collision avoidance systems. The available Parking Assistance Package added features like a 360-degree surround camera view, while the Driving Assistant Professional Package included traffic jam assistance and active lane-keep assist. The X3's comprehensive safety features and high safety ratings made it a reliable choice for safety-conscious buyers.