Vehicle Spotlight: The 2022 BMW X3
BMW is giving their X3 luxury compact SUV lineup a facelift for 2022. Featuring new styling, refreshed interior, and revised powertrain options, BMW’s best-selling crossover gets meaningful updates that cement its position as the segment’s ultimate driving machine.
It may take a few seconds to spot the new and subtle exterior styling changes on the facelifted X3. Starting at the front, BMW’s kidney grilles are now joined together for a larger appearance with a pearlescent chrome and satin aluminum finish. Headlights are 0.4 inches slimmer, the front vertical air intakes are emphasized with a triangular outline, and side windows are trimmed in satin aluminum. At the rear, the signature taillights have been resculpted into what BMW calls a ‘pincer claw contour’ shape, and the exhaust pipes sit flush to the rear bumper with a larger opening for a sportier presence. New Brooklyn Grey Metallic and Tanzanite Blue II Metallic paint choices also join the list of available exterior color options.
Several tweaks were made inside the cabin to improve the overall driving experience. The center console is redesigned to align with the rest of the BMW lineup featuring more silver trim accents, new air conditioning controls, and a new location for the engine start/stop button near the updated gear selector. ‘Tacora Red’ interior color joins the standard Sensatec upholstery lineup, however buyers can also choose Vernasca or Merino leather for their seating surfaces.
Four engine options are available with the 2022 X3. The 382-hp inline-6 M40i engine now has a 48-volt mild-hybrid setup that provides better fuel savings and extra power boost, while the range-topping 503-hp X3M Competition gets 37 lb-ft more torque at 479 lb-ft. The xDrive30i and xDrive30e remain in the lineup, though the standard X3M makes a departure. All-wheel-drive is equipped with every unit sold in Canada.
The 2022 BMW X3 is a better vehicle thanks to changes that bring quality-of-life improvements for its passengers. With a diverse range of engine options, competent vehicle dynamics, and interior refinement, the 2022 X3 is an easy recommendation to those that want luxury, comfort, and unparalleled performance.
