2022 BMW X3 vs 2022 Buick Encore GX

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was a compact SUV that bore a striking resemblance to its sibling, the Encore. Both models shared Buick's signature trapezoidal "waterfall" grille, high beltline, and similar headlight styling. The Encore GX, however, was slightly longer, which gave it a more balanced appearance. The optional ST (Sport Touring) appearance package enhanced its aesthetic appeal with body-colour moldings, custom grille, sport bumpers, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the Encore GX offered a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and leather upholstery on higher trims. The controls were straightforward, although the rotary toggles on the steering wheel were somewhat cumbersome.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 presented a more aggressive exterior design with a larger kidney grille and adaptive full LED headlights. The rear featured new taillights with a pincer claw design, adding a modern touch. The X3 offered a variety of exterior finishes and wheel options, including an M Sport Package for a sportier look. Inside, the X3's cabin was well-appointed with options for wood trim, power-adjustable seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with a focus on practicality and ease of use. The redesigned centre console and larger infotainment screen added to the modern feel of the cabin.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was equipped with a 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, the Encore GX delivered adequate power for everyday driving. However, the ride was noisier than expected, and the driving dynamics were uninspiring. The engine stop/start feature, while beneficial for fuel efficiency, could be annoying, though it could be overridden.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered a more robust performance with its xDrive30i model featuring a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The X3 M40i variant took it up a notch with a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The M40i also included a mild-hybrid system for smoother operation. The X3's performance was impressive, with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds for the M40i. The driving experience was enhanced by features like a flap-controlled sports exhaust system and adaptive suspension, making it a more exhilarating drive compared to the Encore GX.

Despite its compact size, the 2022 Buick Encore GX offered a comfortable interior with ample headroom and legroom in the front seats. The rear seats were a bit tight for three adults, but the cargo space was practical, with 665 litres available behind the rear seats and 1,422 litres with them folded. The two-level cargo floor and optional hands-free power liftgate added convenience.

The 2022 BMW X3 provided a spacious interior with seating for five adults, although the rear middle seat was best suited for smaller passengers. The cargo area was generous, with a 40/20/40-split rear seat configuration allowing for flexible storage options. The X3's seats were comfortable, with options for upgraded leather upholstery. The redesigned centre console and larger infotainment screen improved accessibility and usability.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX came equipped with an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Driver-assistance features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. The tech package offered additional features like a head-up display and wireless phone charging.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, navigation, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded the screens to 12.3 inches. The X3 offered a 12-speaker HiFi sound system, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system for the M40i. Additional tech options included a panoramic sunroof, head-up display, and gesture control.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was well-equipped with safety features, including Teen Driver technology and a tire-fill alert system. It received a five-star overall crash protection rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS, with some variations in headlight ratings.

The 2022 BMW X3 also earned a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and active blind-spot monitoring. Optional safety features included traffic jam assistance and a 360-degree surround camera view.