2022 BMW X3 vs 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

The 2022 BMW X3, available in variants like the xDrive30i, M40i, and M, showcased a refreshed exterior with a slightly more aggressive stance. The kidney grille was larger, yet not overly dominant, and a black sensor bar added a unique touch. The adaptive full LED headlights were slimmer, complemented by vertical air intakes and a redesigned bumper. At the rear, new taillights with a black surround and claw-shaped LEDs were introduced, alongside larger exhaust tips and a new bumper. The M Sport Package offered additional sporty elements, while new metallic colours like Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue were added to the palette.

Inside, the X3's cabin was clean and efficient, offering a variety of trims and materials, including wood and SensaTec synthetic leather. The interior featured eight-way power-adjustable front seats, tri-zone climate control, and a panoramic moonroof. Ambient lighting added to the atmosphere, and the seating options varied by model, with choices in both synthetic and genuine leather. The overall design was handsome, with a focus on comfort and practicality.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport embraced a "modernist" and "reductive" design, emphasizing simplicity and elegance. Despite limited flashy options, such as Firenze Red paint and 23-inch wheels, the vehicle exuded understated luxury. Our test model in Eiger Grey with silver wheels and a Black Exterior Pack looked sophisticated. Inside, the Deep Garnet over Ebony theme with aluminum and shiny black trim added to the luxurious feel.

Available in Dynamic SE, Dynamic HSE, Autobiography, and the sold-out SV Edition One, the Range Rover Sport offered features like heated and ventilated seats and a high MSRP. The design highlights included premium LED headlights, flush-mounted door handles, and surface LED taillights. The SUV boasted excellent aerodynamics and a luxurious interior with sustainable materials like Ultrafabrics and Windsor leather upholstery, providing a high-tech and refined experience.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission across all models. The xDrive30i variant was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, with a 0-100 km/h time of 6.3 seconds. The M40i variant offered 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's performance was enhanced by a sports exhaust, adaptive suspension, and a rear-oriented torque split AWD system.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport aimed for refinement and driver engagement. It featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The Autobiography model offered a PHEV drivetrain with 434 hp. The SUV's architecture increased torsional stiffness by 35%, and it included adaptive damping air suspension and various driving modes. Despite its off-road prowess, the Range Rover Sport struggled to match the agility of sport-tuned competitors on winding roads.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided ample comfort and practicality, seating five with a 40/20/40-split rear seat. The cargo area was spacious, accommodating backpacks and equipment, with a power tailgate for convenience. The interior featured SensaTec faux-leather seats, with optional Vernasca leather for added comfort. The redesigned centre console and larger infotainment system improved ergonomics and accessibility.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport maintained a commanding driving position with a low dashboard and thin roof pillars. The air suspension facilitated easy entry and exit, while the front seats offered 20-way adjustability and heating. The rear seat, though improved, remained tight for taller passengers. The cargo area provided 903 litres of space, expandable to 1,500 litres with the rear seats down. Storage solutions included a deep bin under the centre console and a power liftgate for easy access.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7, offering a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, navigation, and smartphone compatibility. An optional Live Cockpit Professional provided larger screens and a fully digital experience. The standard sound system included 12 speakers, with an optional Harman Kardon system for enhanced audio. Additional tech options included keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, and heated seats.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport came with a 13.7-inch digital display and a 13.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It offered wireless smartphone connectivity, Amazon Alexa, and a Meridian audio system with up to 29 speakers. However, the Pivi Pro system was often confusing and frustrating to use. The SUV included a wireless charging pad, though accessing it was challenging.

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

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. It also featured automatic high-beam headlights, a driver monitoring system, and a surround-view camera. The adaptive cruise control and steering assist were less responsive than expected.