2022 BMW X3 vs 2022 Kia Sportage

The 2022 Kia Sportage presented a mixed bag in terms of design. While Kia's signature tiger-nose grille was a hit on models like the Stinger and Sorento, it seemed out of place on the Sportage, resembling a Halloween party fake mustache. Despite this, the Sportage excelled in other design aspects, boasting a stylish four-dot running light signature reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a Volkswagen-like symmetry in its rear design. The SX trim's 19-inch alloy wheels added to its well-proportioned and planted stance. Inside, the Sportage adopted a Germanic design approach with a black dashboard accented by polished metallic elements. The interior was user-friendly, with buttons and knobs for easy control of the stereo, climate, and infotainment system, contributing to an upscale feel.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 offered a more aggressive exterior design with a slightly larger kidney grille and adaptive full LED headlights. The rear featured new taillights with a black surround and pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs, adding a modern touch. The X3's exterior updates included larger exhaust tips, a new bumper, and an M Sport Package for xDrive30i models, enhancing its sporty appeal. Inside, the X3's cabin was clean and efficient, with a variety of inserts like wood trim and SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery. The interior was spacious, with eight-way power-adjustable front seats and a panoramic moonroof standard on the M40i. The X3's interior colour choices varied by material and model, offering a range of options for customization.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options. Most models featured a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, providing a competitive yet unremarkable performance. The Sportage SX, however, came with a more robust engine, delivering 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, making it suitable for those living at higher elevations. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the Dynamax all-wheel-drive system was standard on all but the base LX FWD model. The Sportage SX offered quick acceleration, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm, providing a lively driving experience. The suspension system, featuring MacPherson struts and an independent multi-link rear, offered a smooth and compliant ride, though some body roll and lateral rocking were noted.

The 2022 BMW X3, on the other hand, featured an eight-speed automatic transmission across all models. The xDrive30i variant was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 6.3 seconds. The X3 M40i boasted a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, delivering 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds. The M40i's performance was enhanced by a flap-controlled sports exhaust system, sport brakes, and an adaptive suspension. The mild-hybrid system, while not significantly improving fuel efficiency, offered smoother start/stop operation and an additional 11 hp during acceleration. The X3 M40i provided a more exhilarating driving experience, especially on winding roads, compared to the xDrive30i.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, despite being on the smaller side of the compact crossover segment, offered a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim featured perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching, ten-way power adjustment for the driver's seat, and eight-way power adjustment for the front passenger seat. The front seats were heated and ventilated, and the rear seats were heated as well. The Sportage provided generous legroom for rear passengers, along with air conditioning vents and a USB charging port. However, its cargo space was limited, with 1,703 litres available with the rear seats folded, falling short of competitors like the Honda CR-V. The Sportage also featured Kia's smart liftgate technology for hands-free access.

The 2022 BMW X3 excelled in comfort and practicality, offering seating for five adults, though the rear middle seat was best suited for smaller passengers. The rear seats featured a 40/20/40-split, providing ample cargo space for luggage and equipment. The X3's SensaTec faux-leather seats were comfortable, with the option to upgrade to Vernasca leather for added softness. The X3's sport seats offered good support, and the bottom seat cushion could be extended for taller drivers. The redesigned centre console improved ergonomics, with a larger standard infotainment system and push-button controls for climate and audio functions. The X3's interior was well-appointed, with a variety of customization options available.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with knobs for stereo volume and radio tuning, and logical onscreen menus. However, the UVO Intelligence system lagged behind in technological sophistication, lacking a WiFi hotspot and offering wired smartphone mirroring.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics, including a 5.1-inch instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. Standard features included navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a range of connected digital features. The optional Live Cockpit Professional offered larger 12.3-inch screens and cloud-based navigation. The X3's infotainment system was highly customizable, with multiple control options. A 12-speaker HiFi sound system was standard, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system available for M40i models. Additional tech options included comfort access keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered a range of safety features on the EX and SX trims, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were also included. The SX trim added adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX earning an Acceptable headlight rating, qualifying it for an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. While IIHS ratings for the 2022 model were not available, the 2018 X3 was a Top Safety Pick+. The X3 featured adaptive LED headlights, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and active blind-spot monitoring. Additional safety features included rear collision avoidance, park distance control, forward-collision warning, and active pre-collision protection systems. Optional features included parking assistance, traffic jam assistance, and active lane-keep assist.