2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2021 Buick Enclave harkened back to the brand's glory days with its large, shiny, and impressive design. After a period of decline, Buick found its footing by offering globally sourced and rebadged GM vehicles. The Enclave stood out as a significant model, embodying the brand's past while catering to the modern SUV market. It was the largest of Buick's SUV lineup, offering a luxurious appearance, especially in the Avenir trim, which featured a unique grille, brightwork, and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave Avenir boasted a minimalist design with organic forms, polished accents, and soft leather, although the wood trim was not genuine. The interior was simple, save for the electronic transmission shifter, which required some getting used to.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 presented a more aggressive exterior design with a slightly larger kidney grille and new adaptive full LED headlights. The rear featured new taillights with a black surround and pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs. The X3 offered a variety of exterior updates, including an M Sport Package for the xDrive30i models, new paint options, and aerodynamically optimized wheels. Inside, the X3's cabin was clean and efficient, with a variety of trim options and a focus on comfort. The interior featured a redesigned centre console, a larger infotainment system, and improved ergonomics. The X3 offered a range of seating options and ambient lighting, creating a comfortable and customizable environment.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It delivered 310 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 266 pound-feet of torque at 2,800 rpm. The Enclave's towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds) when properly equipped. The V6 engine provided strong acceleration, and the SUV handled like a smaller vehicle despite its size. The nine-speed automatic transmission was smooth and responsive. The Enclave's suspension, especially with the Avenir Technology Package, offered a premium-tuned experience with continuously variable damping. Fuel efficiency was rated at 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with a range of over 900 kilometres on a single tank.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The xDrive30i model was equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds. The X3 M40i variant offered a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, delivering 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It achieved a zero-to-100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds. The M40i's performance was enhanced by a sports exhaust system, adaptive suspension, and a rear-oriented torque split. The mild-hybrid system provided an additional 11 horsepower during acceleration but did not improve fuel efficiency.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was one of the largest SUVs in its class, offering spacious seating for six or seven passengers. The cabin was designed for comfort and quietness, with features like Active Noise Cancellation and laminated windshield glass. The Avenir trim included 12-way power-adjustable front seats with massage functions, heated and ventilated leather seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Enclave's interior was practical, with a stylish centre console and ample storage space. The third-row seat was genuinely useful, and the cargo area offered 668 litres of space, expanding to 2,764 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided seating for five adults, with a 40/20/40-split rear seat configuration. The cargo area was spacious, accommodating backpacks and equipment with ease. The X3's seats were comfortable, with options for SensaTec or Vernasca leather upholstery. The interior featured a redesigned centre console, a larger infotainment system, and improved ergonomics. The X3 offered a range of adjustability for occupants, although the thigh-support cushion control handle was a minor inconvenience for some drivers. The vehicle's ergonomics were enhanced with easier access to touchpoints and a smudge-free matte finish on controls.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations, with quick response times and a user-friendly interface. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Upgrades were available, such as a premium sound system, navigation, and a surround-view camera. However, the 8-inch touchscreen and 10-speaker Bose sound system were less impressive compared to competitors. The rear camera mirror was a unique feature, providing a live video view of the rear.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, including a 5.1-inch instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. It offered navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and a range of connected features. The optional Live Cockpit Professional enlarged the screens to 12.3 inches and provided a fully digital experience. The X3's standard sound system included 12 speakers, with an optional Harman Kardon system available. Additional tech options included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's safety systems were effective but limited in availability. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard in Canada, while the Driver Confidence Plus Package was only available on higher trims. This package included features like forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, although its frontal-impact protection was rated four stars.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It included standard safety features like adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and active blind-spot monitoring. The X3 also offered optional features like parking assistance, traffic jam assistance, and active lane-keep assist. The 2018 X3 was previously named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, and the 2022 model added even more safety features.