2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, maintaining its traditional styling while adding a touch of modern flair. The XC90 retained its boxy profile and blunt front end, but with softer lines and more chrome detailing, it presented a more refined look. The LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights were a distinctive feature that enhanced its character. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced Swedish minimalism with high-quality materials and thoughtful design, featuring matte-finish wood trim and unique upholstery options like wool and Nappa leather. The Orrefors crystal shifter added a touch of luxury to the otherwise restrained interior.

The 2022 BMW X3, available in multiple variants, showcased a slightly more aggressive exterior design with a larger kidney grille and adaptive full LED headlights. The redesigned front bumper and new taillights with pincer claw-shaped brake lights added to its modern appeal. The X3 offered a range of exterior updates, including an M Sport Package for the xDrive30i models, new paint options, and aerodynamically optimized wheels. Inside, the X3 featured a clean and efficient design with a variety of trim options, power-adjustable front seats, and a standard panoramic moonroof on the M40i. The interior was spacious, with a focus on comfort and practicality, offering a range of seating materials and ambient lighting options to enhance the driving experience.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model produced 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the T6 variant, with both turbocharging and supercharging, delivered 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, known as the Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric motors for a total output of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. Despite its power, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' six-cylinder or V8 engines. The XC90's ride quality was excellent, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and it offered a maximum towing capacity of 2,250 kilograms.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission across all models. The xDrive30i variant was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-100 km/h time of 6.3 seconds. The M40i model boasted a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, generating 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. The M40i offered a more exhilarating driving experience with its sport brakes, adaptive suspension, and rear-oriented torque split. The mild-hybrid system provided a smoother start/stop operation and an additional 11 hp during acceleration, although it did not improve fuel efficiency.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom across all three rows. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. The XC90 featured a power sunroof, four-zone climate control, and a filtration system for air quality. The Inscription trim offered 10-way power-adjustable front seats with massage, but the steering wheel was not power-adjustable. Cargo space was limited, with 317 litres with all seats in place, expanding to 1,815 litres with the second and third rows folded. A hands-free power tailgate was available.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided seating for five adults, with a 40/20/40-split rear seat configuration. The X3 offered ample cargo space, accommodating backpacks and additional luggage with ease. The SensaTec seats were comfortable, with the option to upgrade to Vernasca leather for added softness. The X3's interior featured improved ergonomics, a redesigned centre console, and a larger standard infotainment system. The vehicle offered a range of adjustability for occupants, although the thigh-support cushion control handle was a minor inconvenience for some drivers.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The system was user-friendly, with a portrait-oriented touchscreen that allowed easy navigation through menus. The XC90 also offered a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and a head-up display. However, the wireless charging pad was not compatible with most phones, and the lack of front USB-C ports was a drawback.

The 2022 BMW X3 came standard with BMW Live Cockpit Plus, featuring a 5.1-inch instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. The system included navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a range of connected features. An optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded both screens to 12.3 inches, offering a fully digital experience. The X3's infotainment system was customizable, with multiple control options, including steering wheel-mounted controls and voice activation. The standard audio system featured 12 speakers, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system available for the M40i.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The XC90 excelled in crash tests, with top scores in all categories.

The 2022 BMW X3 earned a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, with additional safety features for 2022. Standard equipment included adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and active blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included parking assistance, traffic jam assistance, and a 360-degree camera view. The X3's safety systems were designed to enhance driver awareness and prevent collisions.