2022 BMW X3 vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 BMW X3 presented a refreshed exterior design that subtly enhanced its aggressive stance. The signature kidney grille was enlarged, yet it maintained a balanced appearance, avoiding the overly bold look seen in other BMW models. 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 horizontal-styled exterior lighting. The X3 offered nine exterior finishes, with new colours like Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue, and standard 19-inch grey aluminum-alloy wheels. The interior of the X3 was clean and efficient, with a variety of inserts and options for premium Vernasca leather. The cabin featured ambient lighting and a panoramic moonroof, providing a comfortable and stylish environment.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs. The front end received a restyle, featuring an Audi-esque grille with the Lincoln star and chrome detailing. Despite this, the Navigator maintained its elegance and presence. Inside, the Navigator dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, highlighted by the Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system featured a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen display, enhancing the Navigator's technological appeal. The SUV continued to offer standard and long-wheelbase styles, with the Reserve trim level available in Canada. The Navigator's interior was spacious and comfortable, with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, and a roomy third-row seat. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The xDrive30i model was powered by 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 X3 M40i model boasted a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, delivering 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It achieved a 0-100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds. The M40i offered a more exhilarating driving experience with its flap-controlled sports exhaust system, sport brakes, adaptive suspension, and rear-oriented torque split AWD system. The mild-hybrid system provided an additional 11 horsepower during acceleration but did not improve fuel efficiency.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada. The Navigator's towing capacity ranged from 3,674 to 3,765 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The SUV's adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology improved ride quality by preparing the suspension for bumps and potholes. The Navigator's electronic brake booster enhanced brake pedal feel and response. The SUV handled various road conditions with ease, thanks to its 24.5 centimetres of ground clearance and appropriate driving modes. The Navigator's fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with an observed average of 12.6 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered seating for five, with a spacious interior for a compact crossover. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40-split, providing ample cargo space when folded. The X3's SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, with the option to upgrade to Vernasca leather for added softness. The redesigned centre console and larger infotainment system improved ergonomics and accessibility. The X3's power tailgate and optional hands-free opening added convenience for loading cargo.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator provided exceptional comfort with its heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. The second-row captain's chairs offered similar features, enhancing passenger comfort. The third-row seat was spacious and supportive, making it suitable for adults. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row and up to 2,925 litres with the second-row seats folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more cargo capacity, making it ideal for families with large hauling needs.

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, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and various connected digital features. An optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded both screens to 12.3 inches and provided a fully digital experience. The X3's standard sound system included 12 speakers, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system available for M40i models. Additional tech options included a package for xDrive30i models with comfort access keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, and lumbar support.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with customizable settings for a personalized experience. The Navigator's voice recognition system was improved, though not perfect. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system featured Amazon Fire TV, providing access to streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It included standard safety features such as adaptive LED headlights, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, active blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included parking assistance plus, active park distance control, and a 360-degree surround camera view.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The SUV also featured a surround-view camera system. ActiveGlide, Lincoln's semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways. The system performed well within its operational limits, though drivers were required to remain attentive.