2022 BMW 3 Series vs 2022 Nissan Altima

The 2022 BMW 3 Series offered a range of models, including the 330i, 330e, M340i, M3, and M3 Competition, with prices starting at $44,990 and reaching up to $93,500, excluding a $2,480 destination charge. Each variant featured a distinct powertrain, with the 330i xDrive sedan and 330e equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the latter incorporating plug-in hybrid technology. The M340i boasted a turbocharged six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, enhancing performance and handling. The high-performance M3 and M3 Competition models topped the lineup. The M340i xDrive, tested in Barbera Red paint and Cognac SensaTec upholstery, included options like the Advanced Driver Assistance package and Adaptive M Suspension, bringing the price to nearly $80,000. The M340i's exterior featured M Performance design elements, including a unique grille, Shadowline trim, and 19-inch wheels, contributing to its appealing styling. Inside, the SensaTec upholstery and dashboard wrap provided a sophisticated look, with the Cognac colour adding a trendy contrast to the cabin's dark tones. Overall, the 3 Series combined quality materials with a design focused on driving enjoyment.

The 2022 Nissan Altima, part of the sixth generation, continued its evolution from its original 1993 model. Available in SE, SR Midnight Edition, and Platinum trims in Canada, the Altima featured Nissan's V-Motion grille and a sporty design with a low, wide stance and a "floating" roofline. The SR Midnight Edition, tested in Gun Metallic, included gloss black accents, LED fog lights, and 19-inch wheels, enhancing its sporty appearance. Inside, the Altima offered comfortable Zero Gravity front seats, a well-organized instrument panel, and high-quality materials, providing a premium feel. However, lower trims lacked the same level of refinement. The Altima's dimensions placed it in the middle of its competitors, with a 437-litre trunk and a 61-litre fuel tank. While the Altima excelled in comfort and practicality, its high rear shelf and sloping roofline compromised rear visibility. The trunk's metal bar supports also posed a challenge when closing the lid with a full load. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Altima remained a competent midsize sedan.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivered impressive performance, accelerating to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds. The M340i's fuel efficiency was rated at 9.2 L/100 km, with our test achieving 9.4 L/100 km. The car featured BMW's xDrive AWD system, M Sport brakes, variable sport steering, and an M Sport suspension, providing precise handling and a smooth ride. The M340i's driving dynamics were exceptional, offering a thrilling experience with its responsive steering and powerful acceleration. The car's transmission performed flawlessly, and the optional Adaptive M Suspension further enhanced its capabilities. The M340i was a standout in the sports sedan segment, offering a perfect balance of performance and comfort.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Altima came with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 188 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. While the engine's performance was modest, the Altima's AWD system and Xtronic CVT provided a smooth and comfortable ride. The SR trim included paddle shifters, though they were deemed unnecessary for a midsize sedan. The Altima's suspension, aided by Active Ride Control, delivered a composed and quiet ride, with minimal noise and vibrations. Despite its lacklustre acceleration, the Altima excelled in road manners and refinement, offering a comfortable driving experience.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i offered a blend of sportiness and practicality, with power-adjustable front sport seats providing excellent support and a perfect driving position. Rear seat passengers enjoyed adequate legroom, making the 3 Series suitable for four tall occupants. The back seat featured a 40/20/40-split folding design, enhancing cargo versatility. The 481-litre trunk provided ample storage space, though a sports wagon variant would have been a welcome addition. The M340i included a three-zone automatic climate control system, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel, though ventilated front seats were unavailable.

The 2022 Nissan Altima, as a midsize sedan, offered comfortable seating for four to five passengers, with easy-to-use controls and a spacious back seat. Its dimensions placed it in the middle of its competitors, with a 437-litre trunk and a 61-litre fuel tank. The Altima's high rear shelf and sloping roofline compromised rear visibility, while the trunk's metal bar supports posed a challenge when closing the lid with a full load. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Altima remained a competent and practical choice for families and commuters.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series featured the optional Digital Cockpit Professional, with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While the system lacked the integration of maps and imagery found in competitors, it was intuitive to use, with multiple control options. The 3 Series included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system, with an optional 16-speaker Harman Kardon system. The Connected Package Pro offered BMW Remote Services and the Intelligent Personal Assistant, providing conversational voice recognition. The M340i also featured a head-up display, surround-view camera system, and autonomous parking capability.

The 2022 Nissan Altima came with a 7-inch advanced drive-assist display and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The SR trim included navigation and connected services, while the Platinum trim featured a nine-speaker Bose audio system. The Altima's tech package included traffic sign recognition, an Around View Monitor, and Nissan's ProPilot Assist system, which assisted with acceleration, steering, and braking. The Altima's technology worked seamlessly, providing a user-friendly experience.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series included Active Guard, featuring forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. The Traffic Jam Assistant and Emergency Stop Assistant offered additional safety features. The 3 Series earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, demonstrating its strong safety performance.

The 2022 Nissan Altima came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Altima received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, highlighting its excellent crash protection and safety technology.