2022 Ford Explorer vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's renowned craftsmanship, fitting seamlessly into the brand's SUV lineup. Its design, characterized by the iconic kidney grille and distinct body shape, ensured it was unmistakably a BMW. While this consistency in design was reassuring for brand enthusiasts, it also meant the X5 could blend in with other BMW models in a crowded parking lot. The vehicle featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice between xLine and M Sport styling, with the latter offering a sportier appearance through body-colour matched trims and high-gloss black accents. The interior, though familiar with its parts-bin design, was not lacking in quality, offering leather and soft-touch materials, albeit with some dust-attracting black plastic. M Sport models boasted unique interior elements like an M sports steering wheel and exclusive trim strips.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer offered a more athletic and modern design, thanks to its rear-drive platform. This allowed for a long, tall hood and a rakish roofline, complemented by blacked-out roof pillars that created a "floating roof" effect. The Explorer's diverse model lineup meant that higher trims featured a mix of quality materials, though some elements hinted at the base model's origins. The cabin generally felt worthy of its price, but occasional reminders of the Explorer's more economical trims were evident. The Explorer's design was both functional and stylish, appealing to those seeking a robust and athletic SUV.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrains, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model featured a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque, with all-wheel drive as standard. The M50i variant boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8, producing 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M reached 600 hp, or 617 hp with the Competition Package. The plug-in hybrid xDrive45e model combined a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine with a 24-kilowatt-hour battery, achieving 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, and offering up to 50 kilometres of all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering dynamics were less engaging than expected, with a tendency to wobble at higher speeds. The cabin remained quiet, and the suspension effectively absorbed road imperfections. Charging the hybrid model was convenient, with a five-hour charge time on a Level 2 charger and a total driving range of approximately 600 kilometres.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided three powertrain options. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims featured a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, generating 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada. The hybrid drivetrain, available on the Limited trim, combined a 3.3-litre V6 engine with an electric motor, producing 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kg. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, standard on the ST and Platinum trims, delivered 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kg. The Explorer's ride was robust and capable, handling off-road terrain with ease, while providing a comfortable and engaging driving experience on paved roads.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of its interior space, with front cupholders conveniently placed and a wireless phone charging pad out of the driver's line of sight. The seating was spacious and comfortable for short trips, though longer journeys revealed a slightly hard seat bottom. The rear seats accommodated two adults comfortably, with an optional third row available. The split liftgate was easy to operate, and the vehicle's air suspension allowed for height adjustments when loading cargo. Without the third row, the cargo area was spacious, though the doors did not open wide enough for easy access to the second row.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered ample comfort for families, with the option of a second-row bench seat for occasional five-passenger capacity. The third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited legroom and accessibility. Higher trims featured triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain's chairs. Practical storage was somewhat lacking, with limited centre console space and few pockets or shelves. The hands-free power liftgate revealed 528 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,264 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,132 litres with both rear rows down.

The 2021 BMW X5 came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and various connectivity options. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, quad-zone climate control, and premium audio systems. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. Higher trims offered wireless charging, a surround-view camera, and a Bang and Olufsen sound system. The older Sync 3 system showed limitations in voice recognition and functionality compared to the newer Sync 4 technology available in other Ford models.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had limitations, with issues in lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control performance. The X5 received high safety ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features such as forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems generally performed well, though the steering wheel sensitivity could be improved.