2022 BMW X3 vs 2023 Acura MDX

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 to present a more aggressive stance, with a larger kidney grille and a black sensor bar between the grilles for a unique look. 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, complemented by an M Sport Package for xDrive30i models, specialized aero wheels, and new paint options. The interior of the X3 was clean and efficient, offering a variety of inserts, power-adjustable front seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery was standard, with Vernasca leather as an option, and ambient lighting added to the cabin's ambiance.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered standard and Type S versions, with various trim packages enhancing equipment levels. The Type S featured a subtle design with chicane-design LED lights, 21-inch wheels, and quad exhaust outlets. A panoramic moonroof and Iconic Drive ambient lighting were standard, while the Type S Ultra added quilted leather, aluminum interior trim, and a Sport Appearance package. The MDX's interior was appealing, though some design choices, like gloss black plastic, made controls challenging to use. The electronic transmission switchgear was also a point of contention. Despite these issues, the MDX remained a fundamentally attractive luxury SUV.

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, achieving 0-100 km/h in 6.3 seconds. The M40i variant boasted a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, delivering 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with 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 a smoother start/stop operation and an additional 11 horsepower during acceleration, though it did not improve fuel efficiency.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, generating 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The MDX Type S featured an Integrated Dynamics System with multiple driving modes, including an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. Performance enhancements included a solid front suspension stabilizer bar, Electro-Servo brake system, and larger front brake rotors with Brembo calipers. However, the performance upgrades did not create a cohesive driving experience, with issues like indecisive transmission, lack of ride compliance, and poor brake pedal modulation. The MDX Type S averaged 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, falling short of its official fuel consumption rating.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered seating for five and ample storage space, with a 40/20/40-split rear seat configuration. The cargo area was spacious enough for backpacks and additional luggage, with a power tailgate and optional hands-free opening. The SensaTec seats were comfortable, with the Vernasca leather option providing added softness. The X3's interior featured improved ergonomics, a redesigned centre console, and a larger infotainment system. The push-button and rocker-style controls for climate and audio functions were conveniently positioned, and the matte finish of the buttons maintained a smudge-free appearance.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seats, with the option to remove the centre section of the second-row seat for easier access to the third row. The Type S Ultra featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, wrapped in quilted leather upholstery. The MDX's interior prioritized style over storage space, with a small bin under the front centre armrest and a touchpad interface taking up console space. The cargo area offered 461 litres of space behind the third row, expanding to 1,107 litres with the third row folded and 2,021 litres with both rear rows folded flat. The Type S included a hands-free liftgate with a Walk Away Close function for added convenience.

The 2022 BMW X3 came with BMW Live Cockpit Plus, featuring a 5.1-inch colour display instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. The system included navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and various connected digital features. An optional Live Cockpit Professional offered larger screens and 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 comfort access keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. The infotainment system used a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the centre console, accompanied by a padded wrist rest. The MDX offered Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa Built-In, SiriusXM satellite radio, and AcuraLink connected services. The top-tier sound system was the Signature Edition ELS Studio 3D with 25 speakers. The Platinum Elite and Type S Ultra packages added a 10.5-inch head-up display, though the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

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, rear cross-traffic alert, and various collision avoidance systems. Optional features included parking assistance, traffic jam assistance, and active lane-keep assist.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a collision mitigation braking system, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centring assist, adaptive cruise control, and Traffic Jam Assist. Standard safety features included rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, though it experienced a false collision warning during testing.