2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, maintaining its traditional styling while adding a touch of modern flair. The XC90 retained its recognizable boxy profile and blunt front end, but introduced softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced "Swedish minimalism," featuring high-quality materials like matte-finish wood trim and optional wool upholstery, creating a refined yet understated cabin environment.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW X3 presented a more aggressive exterior design with a slightly larger kidney grille and slimmer 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 offered a variety of exterior updates, including an M Sport Package for enhanced sportiness and new metallic paint options. Inside, the X3's cabin was well-appointed with dark oak wood trim, power-adjustable front sport seats, and a standard panoramic moonroof on the M40i model. The interior was designed for comfort and practicality, with a focus on ergonomics and a clean, efficient layout.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all centered around a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the T6 added a supercharger for a total of 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid combined the T6 engine with electric motors, delivering 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. The XC90's powertrains provided a balance between efficiency and power, though the small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' larger engines. The XC90 excelled in ride quality and comfort, with an optional air-suspension system and a quiet cabin, but its towing capacity was limited to 5,000 pounds.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission across all models. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i variants were powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 6 seconds. The X3 M40i boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, generating 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The X3's performance was competitive, with the M40i offering a more exhilarating drive. However, the mild-hybrid system did not improve fuel economy, and the X3's fuel efficiency was slightly lower than the previous model year.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered a three-row seating configuration, accommodating six or seven passengers depending on the choice of second-row captain's chairs or a bench seat. While headroom and legroom were average for the segment, the third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. The XC90's interior felt spacious due to its upright roof profile and optional power moonroof. However, storage space was limited, with a shallow center console and minimal cargo capacity, especially with the third row in use. The XC90 provided 11.2 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats up, expanding to 64.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered seating for five adults, with a 40/20/40-split rear seat configuration. The X3 provided ample legroom and cargo space, accommodating backpacks and additional luggage with ease. A power tailgate was standard, with an optional hands-free opening feature. The X3's seats were comfortable, with the option to upgrade to Vernasca leather for added softness. The interior featured improved ergonomics, with a redesigned center console and larger infotainment screens. The X3's cabin was practical and user-friendly, with a focus on comfort and convenience.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, known for its simplicity and ease of use. The system included a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. Optional features included a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and a head-up display. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was intuitive, though some menus were difficult to read while driving. The XC90 also offered limited phone charging options, with only second-row USB-C ports available.

The 2022 BMW X3 came equipped with BMW Live Cockpit Plus and iDrive 7 telematics, featuring a 5.1-inch color display instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. The system included navigation, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay compatibility, Amazon Alexa integration, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The X3 offered a customizable multimedia experience, with optional Live Cockpit Professional for larger screens and cloud-based navigation. The standard audio system featured 12 speakers, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system available. Additional tech options included a Convenience Package and a Premium Package, enhancing comfort and convenience features.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received top safety ratings, including a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS for non-hybrid models and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The XC90 offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, driver-attention monitor, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. Volvo's Pilot Assist driver aid combined adaptive cruise control with automated lane centering, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience.

The 2022 BMW X3 also earned a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. While IIHS ratings for the 2022 model were not yet available, the X3 added new safety features and driver-assistance systems. Standard features included adaptive LED headlights, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, active blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional packages offered additional safety enhancements, such as parking assistance, traffic jam assistance, and active lane-keep assist.