2021 BMW X3 vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received several updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation of the X3 refined the small SUV formula, giving it the exterior and interior presence of larger, more expensive BMW models. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while the interior featured the cold, mechanical styling typical of BMW, though it was more functional than aesthetically pleasing compared to rivals like the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 marked a significant departure from the original Ioniq, positioning itself as the first vehicle in Hyundai's new EV-focused sub-brand. The Ioniq 5's exterior design was a mix of minimal character lines and intricate Parametric Pixel design elements, giving it a concept car-like appearance. The interior, in contrast, was designed for relaxation, featuring a "Living Space" theme with sustainable materials and a zero-gravity "Relaxation" mode for the driver's seat. The cabin was available in mellow hues and offered a comfortable, useable space with innovative features like a moveable center console and a modern take on the retro front bench seat.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the sDrive30i and xDrive30i, both equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i featured rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i came with all-wheel drive. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and had a 17-mile electric-only range, with recharging times of about 3.5 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger or almost 12 hours with a 120-volt outlet. For those seeking more performance, the M40i trim featured a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, while the X3 M performance model boasted 473 horsepower.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 came in three trims (SE, SEL, and Limited) and offered both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The base SE Standard Range model featured a single 128-kW rear-mounted electric motor with 168 horsepower and a 220-mile range. The extended-range variants had a larger 168-kW rear motor producing 225 horsepower and a 303-mile range. The AWD models used a dual-motor system with a total output of 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque, though the range dropped to 256 miles. The Ioniq 5 handled well, with four drive modes including Sport, which added excitement but reduced range. The vehicle also featured paddle shifters for adjusting regenerative braking levels and had a quiet cabin thanks to noise-reducing features.

The 2021 BMW X3 provided up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use, making it one of the most spacious in its segment. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free power liftgate. The X3 offered ample headroom and legroom for front-row passengers, a commanding driving position, and adult-friendly rear seats. The interior featured real buttons and dials to complement the main touchscreen, making it user-friendly.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5, built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), offered a spacious interior with a total volume of 133.7 cubic feet, surpassing competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.4. The Ioniq 5's passenger volume was 106.5 cubic feet, providing a comfortable cabin with soft touchpoints and useable spaces. The moveable center console and modern front bench seat added to the interior's versatility. The leatherette seats were comfortable and supportive, catering to both slim and larger drivers.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, which was user-friendly compared to other luxury systems. It included Apple CarPlay as standard, with Android Auto as an option. Other available features included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. Optional gesture control allowed basic controls through hand movements, though it could result in false positives for those who talk with their hands.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured advanced technology, including a high-voltage, energy-dense system with vehicle-to-load capabilities, allowing it to charge other devices or even another EV. It supported 800-volt charging infrastructure and could reach 80% battery capacity in 18 minutes. Hyundai partnered with Electrify America to offer unlimited 30-minute fast-charging sessions for two years. The Ioniq 5 also had a redesigned Blue Link app, digital key, enhanced smartphone pairing, and over-the-air updates. The 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment were elegant, intuitive, and finished with an anti-glare coating.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) that included blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and front-and-rear collision avoidance. Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system, featured machine-learning adaptive cruise control with stop & go, which adapted to the driver's habits. The Ioniq 5 also offered a head-up display with augmented reality overlays, though it could be distracting. Safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS were not yet available, but Hyundai's recent track record suggested high marks were likely.