2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 Subaru Crosstrek

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek was a testament to Subaru's strategy of adapting its Impreza hatchback into a crossover, appealing to those who valued rugged aesthetics, all-wheel drive, and elevated driving positions. It shared the Subaru Global Platform with other models, offering a refined design and a taller ride height, which provided 22 centimetres of ground clearance. The Crosstrek's exterior was distinguished by black body cladding and model-specific alloy wheels, while vibrant colour options like Plasma Yellow Pearl added character. Inside, the Crosstrek maintained the Impreza's functional but plain interior, with some unique touches like water-repellant upholstery and simulated carbon-fibre trim.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 presented a more aggressive exterior design with a larger kidney grille and adaptive full LED headlights. The rear featured new taillights with a pincer claw-shaped design, and the vehicle was available in nine finishes, including new metallic colours like Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue. The X3's interior was well-appointed, offering a variety of inserts, power-adjustable front seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The cabin was designed for comfort and practicality, with a focus on ergonomics and a clean, efficient layout. The X3's technology included a standard 10.25-inch infotainment screen, with an optional 12.3-inch touchscreen, and a range of connected digital features.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered two engine options: a 2.0-litre boxer-four engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, and a new 2.5-litre boxer-four engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, available on the Outdoor and Limited trims. The Crosstrek's standard all-wheel drive and X-Mode provided some off-road capability, although it was primarily suited for on-road use. The higher centre of gravity resulted in increased body roll, but the ride remained comfortable with low wind noise. The CVT transmission was common across most trims, with a six-speed manual available for the 2.0-litre engine.

The 2022 BMW X3 xDrive30i was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-100 km/h time of 6.3 seconds. The M40i variant featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, enhanced by a mild-hybrid system. The M40i's performance was more exhilarating, with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds. Both models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, with the M40i offering additional M-level dynamics, including a sports exhaust system and adaptive suspension.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek provided competitive passenger space with the Impreza hatchback, offering the same front and rear legroom and slightly more rear headroom. Cargo space was 588 litres with the rear seats in place and 1,565 litres with them folded. The Crosstrek included a rear-seat reminder and a handy cubby hole with USB ports, although storage space was limited. The driving position was higher than the Impreza's, but visibility was good due to the large side glass.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered seating for five, with a 40/20/40-split rear seat configuration. The cargo area was spacious, accommodating backpacks and equipment with ease. The SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, with the option to upgrade to Vernasca leather for added softness. The X3's interior featured improved ergonomics, with a redesigned centre console and a larger standard infotainment system. The vehicle's controls were easily accessible, and the overall design was tailored for comfort and practicality.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek featured the Starlink infotainment system with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. Higher trims received an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation. The system was user-friendly, with large analog knobs and buttons for essential functions. Subaru also included a second screen above the main touchscreen for additional information display.

The 2022 BMW X3 came with BMW Live Cockpit Plus and iDrive 7 telematics, 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 features. An optional Live Cockpit Professional offered larger 12.3-inch screens and cloud-based navigation. The X3's audio system included a standard 12-speaker HiFi system, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system for the M40i.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS. It featured EyeSight driver-assist technology with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Additional features included automatic high beams, reverse automatic braking, and blind-spot monitoring.

The 2022 BMW X3 also received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA. It included adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and active blind-spot monitoring. The X3 offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and active pre-collision protection systems. Optional features included parking assistance, traffic jam assistance, and active lane-keep assist.