2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 GMC Yukon

The 2021 GMC Yukon was a testament to GMC's commitment to offering a rugged yet refined SUV experience. Positioned between Chevrolet and Cadillac, the Yukon aimed to deliver a premium feel without the plushness associated with Buick. The redesigned model came in various trims, including the SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali, with the latter being the most upscale. The Denali trim, in particular, stood out with its exclusive dashboard design, real wood trim, and leather-wrapped panels, offering a sophisticated cabin experience. The Yukon Denali Ultimate, with its Midnight Blue paint and 22-inch wheels, exuded a sense of luxury that set it apart from its Chevrolet Tahoe counterpart.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 presented a more aggressive exterior design with a slightly larger kidney grille and adaptive full LED headlights. The X3 was available in several variants, including the xDrive30i and M40i, each offering distinct features. The interior of the X3 was clean and efficient, with a variety of inserts and a standard panoramic moonroof on the M40i. The X3's cabin was well-appointed, featuring adjustable front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, and new perforated SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery. The X3's design was more tailored and less flashy compared to some of its rivals, but it still offered a handsome and practical interior.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered three engine options, with the Denali trim featuring a 420-horsepower 6.2-litre V8 engine. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided robust acceleration and a satisfying V8 burble at idle. However, fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, with an average consumption of 16.3 litres per 100 kilometres during testing. The Yukon also featured an independent rear suspension and an available Four-Corner Air Ride suspension, improving ride quality and handling. The Active Response 4WD system, with its electronic limited-slip differential, enhanced cornering performance and traction.

The 2022 BMW X3 xDrive30i was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It offered a 0-100 km/h time of 6.3 seconds. The M40i variant, with a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and a mild-hybrid system, delivered 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0-100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds. The M40i's performance was further enhanced by a flap-controlled sports exhaust system, sport brakes, and an adaptive suspension. The mild-hybrid system, while not improving fuel efficiency, provided a smoother start/stop operation and an additional 11 hp during acceleration.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from a new independent rear suspension, significantly improving passenger and cargo space. The Denali trim featured leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power sliding console. The second-row seats were heated and could slide and collapse for improved comfort and cargo room. The third-row seat offered actual thigh support, accommodating adults comfortably. Cargo volume was impressive, with up to 3,480 litres available in the standard Yukon and 4,097 litres in the Yukon XL.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered seating for five, with a 40/20/40-split rear seat configuration. The cargo area was spacious enough to accommodate backpacks and additional luggage. The SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, with the option to upgrade to Vernasca leather for added softness. The X3's interior featured a redesigned centre console, a larger infotainment system, and improved ergonomics. The sport seats provided ample support, and the vehicle offered a multitude of adjustability options for all occupants.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali, especially with the Ultimate Package, offered a comprehensive infotainment system with a 10.2-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bose audio system. The Rear Seat Media system featured dual 12.6-inch touchscreen displays, though it required some effort to stream content. The Yukon also included a 15-inch colour head-up display, a rear camera mirror, and multiple surround-view camera vantage points.

The 2022 BMW X3 came standard with BMW Live Cockpit Plus, featuring a 10.25-inch infotainment screen and a 5.1-inch colour display instrument panel. The system included navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a range of connected digital features. An optional Live Cockpit Professional offered larger 12.3-inch screens and a fully digital experience. The X3's standard audio system was a 12-speaker HiFi setup, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system available for the M40i. Additional tech options included a panoramic sunroof, lumbar support, and gesture control.

The 2021 GMC Yukon was equipped with numerous advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The Denali trim offered adaptive cruise control and enhanced automatic emergency braking. The Yukon’s ADAS operated smoothly, providing a subtle yet effective driving experience. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of review.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It featured adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and active blind-spot monitoring. The X3 also offered optional safety features such as traffic jam assistance, a 360-degree surround camera view, and active lane-keep assist. The vehicle's safety systems were comprehensive, providing a high level of protection and driver assistance.