2021 BMW X3 vs 2022 GMC Terrain

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received significant updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. The 2018 redesign refined the X3's formula, giving it the exterior and interior presence of larger, more expensive BMW models. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while its interior featured the cold, mechanical styling typical of BMW, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics compared to rivals like the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class.

The 2022 GMC Terrain saw updates to its front styling, wheel designs, taillights, and interior trim. The new AT4 trim level featured a bolder grille design, black 17-inch alloy wheels with sport-terrain tires, and AT4 badges. The AT4 trim also included a steel skid plate to protect vital mechanical components, catering to those who might test its off-road capabilities. The Terrain's interior, while roomy and equipped with numerous comfort-enhancing features, reflected its entry-level status in GMC's lineup, with some materials and design choices falling short of luxury expectations.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i had rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i came with all-wheel drive. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and a 17-mile electric-only range, with recharging times of 3.5 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger or almost 12 hours with a 120-volt outlet. For those seeking performance, the M40i's 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six provided robust acceleration and responsive cornering, while the X3 M offered a thrilling 473 horsepower.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. The previously available turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, which offered better acceleration and a 3,500-pound towing capacity, was no longer available. The 1.5-liter engine could tow up to 1,500 pounds. The nine-speed automatic transmission helped keep the Terrain in the torque band, but the engine's power delivery was less satisfying compared to the discontinued 2.0-liter. The Terrain AT4 featured FWD, AWD, Off-Road mode, and Hill Descent Control, but torque steer was an issue in FWD mode. The AT4's 7.9 inches of ground clearance fell short of competitors like the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk and Subaru Forester. The Terrain's ride and handling were decent on pavement, but off-road performance was limited by its ground clearance and suspension tuning.

The 2021 BMW X3 provided up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use, making it one of the best in the small luxury SUV segment. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available. The X3's interior was spacious, offering ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers. The driver and front passenger benefited from real buttons and dials, complementing the main touchscreen and reducing the learning curve for new users.

The 2022 GMC Terrain's interior was roomy for a compact crossover, with numerous comfort-enhancing features and storage solutions. The AT4 trim included power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control with rear air-conditioning vents. The back seat offered proper support, plenty of legroom, and a rear USB charging port. Cargo space measured 29.6 cubic feet behind the back seat, expanding to 63.3 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. The front passenger seat could also be folded down for longer items.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, which was user-friendly compared to other luxury systems. It included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto as an option. Additional options included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. Gesture control was also available, allowing basic controls through hand movements, though it could result in false positives for those who talk with their hands.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems: a 7-inch touchscreen for SLE trim and an 8-inch high-definition touchscreen for SLT, AT4, and Denali trims. Both systems included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and GMC Connected Services through OnStar. The larger screen added connected navigation and a Bose premium sound system. The voice recognition system was excellent, accurately responding to various prompts. The Tech Package option included a head-up display, front and rear park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The Tire Fill Alert system and remote engine starting system were also notable features.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.

The 2022 GMC Terrain included the GMC Pro Safety Package as standard, featuring forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlights, and a following distance indicator. The GMC Pro Safety Plus Package, available on SLE, SLT, and AT4 trims (standard on Denali), added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-change assist, rear parking sensors, and a Safety Alert Seat. The IIHS awarded the Terrain mostly "Good" crash-test scores, with a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the 2022 Terrain's crashworthiness at the time of the review.