2022 BMW X3 vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 BMW X3 was available in four variants, excluding the PHEV: xDrive30i, M40i, and M, all featuring standard all-wheel-drive. The exterior design was slightly revised for a more aggressive stance, with a larger kidney grille and a black sensor bar between the grilles. The adaptive full LED headlights were slimmer, and the taillights featured a new design with a black surround and pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs. The rear was updated with larger exhaust tips and a new bumper. The X3 offered nine exterior finishes, with new metallic colours Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue. The interior was well-appointed, featuring a variety of inserts, eight-way power-adjustable front seats, and new perforated SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery. A panoramic moonroof was standard on the X3 M40i and available for xDrive30i models.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a mature crossover SUV, was the latest iteration of a 2019 redesign. Its exterior styling was in line with current crossover designs, featuring angular wheel arches and crisp lines. The expressive headlights and snub-nosed grille gave it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 had a layered dash with contrasting textures and colours, anchored by an uncomplicated centre stack. A touchscreen interface was positioned at the top of the dash for easy access. The interior design included a circuit-board-inspired geometric pattern that tied the cabin together. The RAV4 offered a comfortable and roomy interior, with a focus on practicality and quality.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The xDrive30i variant 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 M40i variant had a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, producing 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 features like a flap-controlled sports exhaust system, sport brakes, and an adaptive suspension. The mild-hybrid system provided an additional 11 hp during acceleration but did not improve fuel efficiency.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains. The gasoline-only model had a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy for FWD was 8.8 L/100 km city, 6.8 highway, and 7.9 combined. The RAV4 Hybrid used a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor, producing 217 combined hp, with a fuel economy of 5.8 L/100 km city, 6.3 highway, and 6.0 combined. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid had a 2.5-litre engine with a larger battery pack, producing 302 hp, with a fuel economy of 5.7 L/100 km city, 6.4 highway, and 6.0 combined in hybrid mode. The Prime could run up to 68 km on electricity alone. The RAV4 offered car-like handling with a four-wheel independent suspension and AWD models featured Multi-Terrain Select tuning.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided comfort and practicality with seating for five and ample storage space. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40-split, offering enough cargo room for backpacks and additional luggage. A power tailgate was standard, with an optional hands-free opening. The SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, with the option to upgrade to Vernasca leather for added softness. The X3's interior featured improved ergonomics, with a redesigned centre console and a larger standard infotainment system. The controls for climate and audio functions were easily accessible, and the matte finish of the buttons maintained a smudge-free appearance.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a spacious interior with up to 1,059 litres of luggage space behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded flat. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, with different ratings for various models. Inside, the RAV4 was roomy and comfortable for four, with plenty of space for front-seat occupants. The XLE grade added features like dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. The cabin had ample storage options, including cupholders, bottle holders, and a roomy glove compartment.

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. Standard features included navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and various connected digital features. An optional Live Cockpit Professional enlarged both screens to 12.3 inches. The X3 had a standard 12-speaker HiFi sound system, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system for M40i models. Other tech options included comfort access keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. A 9-inch touchscreen was optional on Trail and standard on Limited, paired with an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The RAV4 Prime offered advanced technology, including five USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and blue ambient illumination. Top trim levels featured a Qi-compatible wireless charging pad, a bird’s-eye view camera system, and a digital rear-view mirror.

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

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota’s Star Safety System, including enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. It had eight airbags and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid a five-star rating.