2022 BMW X3 vs 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2022 BMW X3 presented a refreshed exterior design that subtly enhanced its aggressive stance. The signature kidney grille was larger, yet not overwhelmingly so, maintaining a balanced aesthetic. The adaptive full LED headlights were slimmer, complemented by new vertical air intakes and a redesigned front bumper. At the rear, the taillights featured a new design with a black surround and pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs, adding a modern touch. The updated rear also included larger exhaust tips and a new bumper, enhancing the vehicle's horizontal styling. The X3 offered nine exterior finishes, with new metallic colours like Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue. Standard 19-inch gray aluminum-alloy wheels were paired with all-season run-flat tires, and an optional aerodynamically optimized 19-inch wheel was available for the xDrive30i models. The M Sport Package added sportier elements, including larger air intakes and a rear diffuser, while the X3 M40i featured M-designed 20-inch light-alloy wheels and high-gloss black exterior mirrors.

Inside, the 2022 X3 boasted a clean and efficient design, with a well-appointed interior featuring various inserts like wood trim and an anthracite headliner. The cabin offered eight-way power-adjustable front seats, adjustable side bolsters, reclinable rear seatbacks, and tri-zone automatic climate control. The SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery was standard, with an option for premium Vernasca leather. A panoramic moonroof was standard on the X3 M40i and available for xDrive30i models. Interior colour choices varied by material and model, with options for both SensaTec and genuine leather. Ambient lighting was customizable, providing a comfortable atmosphere. Overall, the X3's interior was handsome and functional, offering a tailored and comfortable experience for its occupants.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, while not a visual standout, offered a unique proposition as a plug-in hybrid minivan. Despite its minivan image, it provided practical advantages like sliding side doors for easy access in tight spaces. The Pacifica Hybrid was available in three trims: Touring L, Limited, and Pinnacle, with prices starting at $55,995. Our test vehicle, a Limited trim with additional features, had an MSRP of $64,960, including destination charges. The interior featured black Nappa premium leather, providing a quality feel, though the styling appeared softer and more dated compared to newer, more angular designs. The Pacifica Hybrid's appeal lay in its practicality and efficiency, offering a plug-in hybrid option in a segment with limited alternatives.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains, all equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The xDrive30i variant featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, with a 0-100 km/h time of 6.3 seconds. The base X3 provided a balanced performance, suitable for urban and mountain roads, with quick maneuverability and a quiet cabin. The M40i variant, however, delivered a more exhilarating experience with a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and a mild-hybrid system, producing 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It achieved a 0-100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds, offering a more dynamic drive with features like a flap-controlled sports exhaust system and adaptive suspension. The mild-hybrid system, while not significantly impacting fuel efficiency, provided smoother start/stop operation and an additional 11 horsepower during acceleration.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-litre V6 engine with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total output of 260 horsepower. The plug-in hybrid drivetrain allowed for an electric-only range of up to 51 kilometres, ideal for short commutes and errands. The Pacifica Hybrid's regenerative braking system captured energy to recharge the battery, contributing to an average fuel economy of 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless, with no need for manual powertrain settings. While the Pacifica Hybrid excelled in efficiency, its driving dynamics were less engaging, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes. However, it offered a smooth ride and impressive handling of speed humps, making it a practical choice for families seeking efficiency and comfort.

The 2022 BMW X3 excelled in comfort and practicality, offering seating for five and ample storage space. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40-split, providing flexibility for cargo and passengers. With the rear seats up, the X3 accommodated backpacks and equipment, and with the seats folded, it offered even more cargo space. The SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, with an option for upgraded Vernasca leather. The X3's interior was ergonomically designed, with a redesigned centre console and a larger infotainment system. The standard 10.25-inch screen could be upgraded to a 12.3-inch touchscreen, providing easy access to controls and functions.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered exceptional comfort and utility, with three rows of comfortable seating and ample cargo space. The interior featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. Storage options were abundant, with extra shelves, a large floor tray, and a long storage bin behind the centre console. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go seats, offering adjustable legroom. The third-row seat provided reasonable comfort, with cupholders and USB ports. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 914 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 2,477 litres with the third-row seats folded. Removing the second-row seats increased cargo capacity to 3,978 litres, surpassing many SUVs.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, offering a 5.1-inch colour display instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. The system included navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and various connected features. An optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded both screens to 12.3 inches, providing a fully digital experience. The X3's standard sound system was a 12-speaker 205-watt HiFi system, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system for M40i models. Additional tech options included a package for xDrive30i models, adding features like keyless entry and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen display with appealing graphics and a user-friendly interface. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and simultaneous Bluetooth pairing for two devices. The available FamCam overhead camera system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. The Pacifica Hybrid also offered a 20-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system, Amazon Fire TV for rear-seat entertainment, and a surround-view camera system. While the voice recognition technology had limitations, the overall infotainment experience was positive.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA, with additional safety features and driver-assistance systems. Standard features included adaptive LED headlights, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, active blind-spot monitoring, and forward-collision warning. Optional features included parking assistance plus, traffic jam assistance, and active lane-keep assist.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid claimed to offer more standard safety and security features than any other vehicle in the industry. It included a rear-seat reminder system and a comprehensive package of driver-assist and collision-avoidance features. The Pacifica Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. However, the adaptive cruise control system required refinement, particularly in recognizing lane departures and moderating speed.