2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, diverging from the traditional styling of Volkswagen's gasoline models. It showcased a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, setting it apart from the more rugged appearance of the Tiguan and Atlas crossovers. The ID.4 was part of Volkswagen's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback. While it shared some design elements with the ID.3, such as plastic body cladding and a slightly elevated ride height, the ID.4 didn't quite resemble a typical SUV. Its interior combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-forward aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic finishes. The base ID.4 Pro came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available in the Statement Package.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 presented a more aggressive exterior design with a slightly larger kidney grille and adaptive full LED headlights. The taillights featured a new design 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 xDrive30i models, specialized aero wheels, and new paint options. Inside, the X3's cabin was well-appointed, offering a clean and efficient design with available wood trim, an anthracite headliner, and adjustable seating options. The interior featured a variety of colour choices and ambient lighting, creating a comfortable and customizable environment for occupants.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was available in two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive (RWD) version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) version added a second electric motor for a total output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The ID.4 was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, with a smooth ride over bumps and potholes. It offered a balanced driving experience with its RWD setup, although it lacked the aggressive regenerative braking found in many other EVs.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the xDrive30i, which featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The X3 M40i, on the other hand, boasted a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, delivering 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The M40i's performance was enhanced by a flap-controlled sports exhaust system, sport brakes, and an adaptive suspension. The mild-hybrid system provided an additional 11 horsepower during acceleration, although it didn't significantly improve fuel efficiency. The X3 M40i offered a more exhilarating driving experience compared to the xDrive30i, with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a spacious interior with more front and rear headroom compared to competitor EVs, although legroom was average for the segment. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,818 litres with the seats folded. The ID.4 lacked a "frunk" for extra storage, but its interior felt spacious from the driver's seat. The cabin featured a twist-grip gear selector and a narrow centre console, with standard heated steering wheel and front seats for added comfort.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided ample space for five passengers, with a 40/20/40-split rear seat configuration. The cargo area was spacious enough to accommodate multiple bags and equipment, with a power tailgate for added convenience. The X3's interior featured SensaTec faux-leather seats, with the option to upgrade to Vernasca leather for added comfort. The redesigned centre console offered improved ergonomics, with a larger standard infotainment system and easy access to climate and audio controls.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 12-inch screen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a 5.3-inch display screen for the instrument cluster. The ID.4's control setup relied heavily on haptic touchpads, which some found difficult to use. A natural-language voice-control system was available, allowing drivers to adjust settings with simple voice commands. The ID.Light feature added a unique touch, providing visual cues for different drive modes and directions.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, including a 5.1-inch colour display instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. The system offered navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a range of connected digital features. An optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded both screens to 12.3 inches, providing a fully digital experience. The X3 also offered a 12-speaker HiFi sound system, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system for M40i models. Additional tech options included comfort access keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for RWD versions. It offered a range of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The ID.4 also introduced Travel Assist and Emergency Assist features for enhanced safety.

The 2022 BMW X3 earned a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and active blind-spot monitoring. Optional safety features included parking assistance plus, traffic jam assistance, and active lane-keep assist with lane centring.