Priced at an MSRP of $43,700 we recommend getting the BMW X3 sDrive30i which is the RWD version. We say this because you will not be taking the X3 off-roading and will be using it as a daily driver. Additionally, we would recommend getting the optional Premium package. However, if you do live in an area where the climate involves snow, do select the AWD xDrive30i version.

The 2022 BMW X3 can be a budget buster if you’re not careful- The Car Connection

The BMW X3 2022 features are desirable and with a starting msrp of $43,700, the standard BMW X3 is offered in sDrive30i and xDrive30i trim configurations only. The more powerful X3 M40i and X3 M features are discussed in separate reviews. The difference between the X3 sDrive30i and xDrive30i is the presence of RWD and AWD respectively. The xDrive30i costs $2,000 more than the sDrive30i trim. 

The 2022 BMW X3 interior trim boasts a Dark Oak Wood make along with SensaTec upholstery. Some features like a 19-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, chrome exhaust tips, roof spoiler, power-folding and heated side mirrors, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, 10.25-inch infotainment screen, powered front sport seats with memory for driver’s seat, LED headlights, and multiple safety features are offered as standard.

The M-Sport Package adds typical M-Sport appearance and safety features to the base 30i models. The Convenience Package adds features like keyless entry, panoramic moonroof, and lumbar support for driver. The Premium Package adds features like heated front seats, heated steering wheel and larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen, while including Convenience Package features. The Dynamic Handling Package includes functional elements for better handling and braking. The Shadowline Package adds black trim elements for distinctive styling. 

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In RWD configuration, the BMW X3 SUV is one of the most fuel-efficient in its class- Carbuzz

With EPA-estimated gas mileage figures of 23 mpg in the city, 29 mpg on a highway, and 25 mpg combined, the 2022 X3 mpg ratings are decent. Opting for the AWD system reduces the combined fuel economy by 1 miles per gallon. The auto start/stop feature is one of the main reasons for its good fuel economy. With a gas tank size of 17.2 gallons, the BMW X3 can travel up to 430/499/464.4 miles in city/highway/combined driving conditions.

The fuel estimates of all rivals are almost similar to the BMW X3. However, the BMW X3 is the true winner, considering the city and highway mpg ratings. Keeping in mind that the Audi Q5 comes standard with the Quattro AWD system, its fuel economy is impressive. The Volvo XC60 offers the best highway range owing to its large fuel tank. It is followed by Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class and BMW X5. 

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The X3's stylish interior comes well equipped before you check a single option box - CarAndDriver

The BMW X3 2022 interior is revised and the center console is all new, taken straight away from the 4 Series sedan. The rest of the interior is the same as the outgoing model. The materials used are fairly BMW and generic. It doesn't stand out in the segment but keeps the cabin classy and does the job there. The build quality is pretty solid and there's nothing to complain about. The leather steering wheel fills the hands nicely and makes the paddle shifters easier to reach. The seats are wrapped in synthetic leather and the seats themselves are comfortable and well-cushioned. Adding to the front-seat comfort are 10-way power front seats with adjustable side bolsters.

Some creature comforts such as heated front seats and steering wheel are optional. Upfront, there is lots of head and legroom for six-footers. The second row has a reasonable amount of room for adults and it can fit two adults comfortably. Comparatively, the legroom is slightly behind the competition. The interior features SensaTec upholstery in a wide range of colors like Canberra Beige, Tacora Red, Cognac, and Black. The Vernasca leather upholstery comes in Black, Mocha, Cognac and Oyster colors. With 28.7 cu.-ft of space behind the second row and 62.7 cu.-ft of space behind the first row, X3 is reasonably practical. 

The Volvo XC60 has the largest cargo area in the segment. It is followed by BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class.  However, a flat loading lip and square-shaped trunk of the BMW X3 make it easy to store more items easily. In terms of rear seat legroom, the Volvo XC60 and Audi Q5 share the same spot and they are followed by the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class with nearly the same leg space. The BMW X3 might offer the same rear seat comfort as its rivals owing to a lesser rear seat legroom. 

A 10.25-inch iDrive 7 infotainment system sits atop the dashboard. This screen can be upgraded to 12.3 inches, which is new for this year. It features wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay with an in-built navigation system. It is one of the best in the business. The touchscreen response is very quick and the graphics quality is vivid. The menu structure is logically prepared and hence, anyone can operate it easily. The placement of some physical controls has been changed this year. 

Some of the key interior features of the 2022 BMW X3 are: 

• Tilt & telescopic multi-function leather steering wheel
• 10-way power front seats
• Synthetic leather upholstery
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Power liftgate
• Wood & leatherette trim on the dash, center console, and door panels
• Tri-zone automatic climate control
• 10.25-inch touchscreen w/ wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Navigation system
• 12-speaker sound system

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The 2022 X3 is unmistakably a BMW, which is possibly a good thing, depending on an individual’s taste - Kelley Blue Book

The 2022 BMW X3 has been given a refresh or life cycle impulse ( that's what BMW calls) to the exterior. Starting with the front, you will notice a revised front bumper and new LED headlights. These headlights are slimmer and sleeker than the previous version and BMW has given a dynamic 3D shape to the headlights. The front bumper is a single-piece frame and features triangular vents. It retains the same kidney grille with active grille shutters. The X3  has a ground clearance of 8 inches which is good enough for exploring rough terrains. The side profile is essentially the same, but it gets a set of new 19-inch wheels with options up to 21 inches.

The rear features new 3D LED pincer claw-styled taillights and new larger trapezoidal exhaust chrome tips to have a sportier appearance. The lengthy profile of the X3 can be a challenge to par at tight spots. Speaking of appearance, the optional M Sport package adds Shadowline exterior trim, gloss black roof rails, an aerodynamic kit, and 19-inch y-spoke bi-color wheels for $4,100. The X3 30i trims are offered in Alpine White, Black Sapphire Metallic, Brooklyn Gray Metallic, Carbon Black Metallic, Dark Graphite Metallic, Jet Black, Mineral White Metallic and Phytonic Blue Metallic exterior colors. 

The Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class amd the BMW X3 have the lowest ground clearance in this competition. This helps for easy ingress and egress and also its potential to increase speed on smooth pavements. Although the Audi Q5's wheelbase is short, its rear legroom is more than the X3. The exterior dimensions of the Volvo XC60 are almost similar to the BMW X3. The Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class sits on the longest wheelbase, offering better high speed stability on highways. 

Some of the key exterior features of the 2022 BMW X3 are:

• LED cornering headlights
• LED adaptive taillights
• LED fog lamps
• Power-folding, heated exterior mirrors
• Aluminum roof rails
• Metallic grille with chrome surround
• Aluminum bodyside moldings
• Rear roofline spoiler
• Aluminum window trim
• Dual exhaust chrome tips
• 18, 19 & 21-inch alloy wheels

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Driver aids are similarly impressive in scope but not always reliable- Edmunds

The NHTSA and IIHS crash ratings are a testimony to the X3's impeccable safety. The X3 2022 received a perfect 5-star rating from NHTSA and 'Good' ratings in all six crash ratings conducted by IIHS. It also received a 'Superior' rating for the front crash prevention and a 'Good' rating for its headlights. BMW is globally known for providing top driver aids in the industry. Several driver assistance technologies are standard in the X3. If you wish for more features, opt for the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package for additional safety to your vehicle.

Some of the key safety features of the 2022 BMW X3 are: 

• Rearview camera
• 360-degree camera
• Automatic emergency braking
• Forward collision warning w/ pedestrian detection
• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Hands-free parallel park assist
• Lane keep assist
• Lane departure warning
• Front & rear parking sensors
• Head-up display

2022 BMW X3 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

The Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class is the truest rival to the X3. It prioritizes comfort over sporty handling by offering a smooth ride. Its cabin also feels more opulent than the X3. The X3 excels with better cargo space and athletic handling. Both the SUVs are fuel-efficient and offer an array of standard features. In the end, the choice depends on what you prefer. 

2022 BMW X3 vs 2022 Audi Q5

The Audi Q5 offers agile acceleration owing to its powerful engine. It also offers sporty handling and smooth ride quality like the X3. Although it comes standard with the AWD system, its fuel economy matches the most fuel-efficient version of the X3. Inside, both SUVs feel luxurious and attractive but the X3 offers a bit more cargo space.

2022 BMW X3 vs 2022 Volvo XC60

The Volvo XC60 offers better ride quality than the X3 but is slightly slower in performance. Its interior is also one of the finest in the class while its cargo space also exceeds the X3 by a margin. However, its towing capacity is less than the X3. The XC60 also won awards for its safety. Therefore, the XC60 is a good option if you value safety otherwise the X3 is not bad either. 

Also Read:

• The Mercedes-Benz GLC In-depth review
• The Audi Q5 In-depth review
• The Volvo XC60 In-depth review

The refreshed 2022 BMW X3 strikes a good balance between sportiness and comfort. Where its rivals are a bit are more on the comfort side, the X3 is a good option if you want a bit of that adrenaline behind the wheel. The new upgrades in the exterior, interior, and tech aim to boost the sales numbers. Overall, the X3 is an exceptional machine and it is heaps of fun to drive. Surely, we would suggest buying one, if you are looking out for a luxury crossover in the market.