2022 BMW X3 vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was an extended version of the standard Escalade, featuring a complete redesign for that model year. It was notably longer, measuring 226.9 inches compared to the Escalade's 211.9 inches, and slightly lower at 76.4 inches. This additional length was primarily at the rear, enhancing cargo space and providing a more stable ride with a 134.1-inch wheelbase. The Escalade ESV's design was characterized by its luxurious chrome styling on various trim levels, with Sport models featuring blacked-out accents. All versions rode on 22-inch wheels, with variations in finishes and spoke numbers depending on the trim. The vehicle's exterior was further enhanced by features like LED headlights, taillamps, and a deep-tinted, solar-absorbing glass, contributing to its luxurious appearance.

Inside, the Escalade ESV offered a less impressive interior, particularly in lighter color schemes where the use of hard plastics was evident. The dashboard lacked the special trimmings expected in a vehicle priced near or above $90,000. Despite this, the Escalade ESV provided a comfortable ride with features like power-extending assist steps and a panoramic moonroof available in upgraded models. Cadillac also offered various packages to enhance both the exterior and interior features, such as the Illumination and Onyx Packages, although these were limited to specific trim levels.

The 2022 BMW X3, available in four variants, presented a slightly revised exterior design with a more aggressive stance. The kidney grille was larger, and the headlights were slimmer, featuring adaptive full LEDs. The rear of the vehicle showcased new taillights with a black surround and pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs. The X3 offered nine exterior finishes, with new colors like Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue II. Standard 19-inch gray aluminum-alloy wheels were paired with all-season run-flat tires, and an aerodynamically-optimized 19-inch wheel was introduced for certain models. The M Sport Package added sportier design elements, while the Shadowline Package provided a black-out treatment for various exterior components.

Inside, the X3's cabin was clean and efficient, featuring dark oak wood trim, an anthracite headliner, and eight-way power-adjustable front Sport seats. The interior offered a variety of color choices and materials, with options for premium Vernasca leather. Ambient lighting with 11 color combinations added to the vehicle's ambiance. The X3's interior was designed for comfort and practicality, with a focus on adjustability and ergonomics. The redesigned center console and larger infotainment system improved accessibility and functionality, making the X3 a well-rounded choice for those seeking a balance of style and practicality.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV offered two engine options: a standard 6.2-liter V8 delivering 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel inline-six engine producing 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations. The Escalade ESV's V8 engine provided sufficient power, though it could have benefited from more low-end torque for passing at higher speeds. The vehicle's weight, ranging from 5,785 to 6,182 pounds, contributed to its performance challenges, particularly when towing. Fuel economy for the Escalade ESV was not rated by the EPA, but the traditional Escalade achieved an estimated 17 to 23 mpg combined, with RWD versions being more efficient.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters as standard. The X3 sDrive30i and xDrive30i were powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Both RWD and AWD models achieved a 0-60 mph time of 6 seconds. The X3 sDrive30i offered an EPA-rated fuel economy of 23 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while the xDrive30i returned 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The X3 M40i variant featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, producing 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The M40i achieved a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds and an EPA-rated fuel economy of 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. The mild-hybrid system offered additional power but did not improve fuel economy.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed as a comfortable and plush people and cargo hauler, offering leatherette seating surfaces as standard and leather upholstery as an option. The vehicle featured 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated first- and second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, and tri-zone climate control. Buyers could upgrade to 16-way power-adjustable front seats with massage functionality and a panoramic sunroof. The Escalade ESV provided ample legroom in the first two rows, with the third row offering decent space for adults. The vehicle boasted 126.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row, 81.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 42.9 cubic feet behind the third row. The hands-free power liftgate and adaptive air suspension added convenience, although the liftgate's functionality was inconsistent.

The 2022 BMW X3 offered seating for five and ample storage space, with a standard 40/20/40-split rear seat configuration. The vehicle's cargo area accommodated backpacks and photography equipment, with room for additional carry-on suitcases. The X3 featured SensaTec faux-leather seats, with the option to upgrade to Vernasca leather for added softness. The vehicle's sport seats provided support, although the thigh-support cushion's control handle could be intrusive for some drivers. The X3's redesigned center console improved ergonomics, with a larger infotainment system and intuitive controls for climate and audio functions. The vehicle's overall design focused on comfort and practicality, making it a suitable choice for families and individuals alike.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was equipped with a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system available for an immersive sound experience. The vehicle featured wireless charging, NFC phone pairing, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and seven USB ports. The Escalade ESV's standout feature was its curved 38-inch OLED screen, which housed three screens displaying driver information and infotainment content. The OLED technology provided deep blacks and crisp graphics, enhancing the cabin's ambiance. Cadillac's Super Cruise advanced driving assist system was available, allowing for hands-free driving on select highways. While Super Cruise generally performed well, it occasionally struggled in certain conditions, such as construction zones or bright sunlight.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7 telematics as standard, including a 5.1-inch color display instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. The system offered navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa integration, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The optional Live Cockpit Professional enlarged both screens to 12.3 inches, providing a fully digital experience. The X3's infotainment system was customizable, with multiple control options, including steering wheel-mounted controls, voice activation, and the iDrive controller. A 12-speaker HiFi sound system was standard, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system available for M40i models. Additional tech options included a Convenience Package and a Premium Package, offering features like keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with front automatic braking, front and rear park assist, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Buyers could add technologies like adaptive park assist, a head-up display, lane-keep assist, and night vision. The NHTSA awarded the Escalade ESV a four-star rating, with a three-star rating in the rollover test due to its top-heavy design.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included adaptive LED headlights, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, and active blind-spot monitoring. The available Parking Assistance Package added features like a 360-degree camera view, while the Driving Assistant Professional Package offered advanced driver-assistance systems, including traffic jam assistance and active lane-keep assist.