2021 BMW X3 vs 2022 Kia EV6

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 BMW's small SUV formula, offering an exterior and interior presence reminiscent of larger, more expensive BMW models. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while the interior featured the brand's signature cold, mechanical styling. Although not as aesthetically pleasing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dashboard was more functional.

The 2022 Kia EV6, in contrast, presented a sportier and more svelte design compared to the Tesla Model Y. Its lower and wider stance, highback tail with a lip spoiler, and wheels stretched to the chassis corners gave it a dynamic look. The EV6's voluptuous curves, squinting headlights, and sealed air intake mimics added to its aggressive appearance. The interior featured dual 12-inch screens, a floating center console, and black and white seats covered in suede and leather. Ambient lighting and futuristic design elements made the EV6's cabin feel like a blend of car and computer, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i trims came 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 had all-wheel drive. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and a 17-mile electric-only range, with recharging times of 3.5 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger or almost 12 hours with a 120-volt outlet. The M40i trim boasted a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, offering robust acceleration and responsive cornering. For those seeking even more power, the X3 M performance model provided 473 horsepower.

The 2022 Kia EV6, tested in its most powerful GT-Line e-AWD variant, featured two electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. With a 77-kilowatt-hour battery, it accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The upcoming GT trim promised 576 horsepower and a sub-3.5-second 0-60 time. The base EV6 Light had a smaller 58 kWh battery and a 167-horsepower motor, while the single-motor Wind and GT-Line models offered 225 horsepower. The dual-motor GT-Line provided quick torque delivery and seamless power distribution, making it a joy to drive. However, cold weather significantly impacted its driving range, reducing efficiency to 65% of Kia's 274-mile EPA estimate. Charging times varied, with the EV6 accepting up to 240 kW but often limited by available charging infrastructure.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered impressive cargo space, with up to 62.7 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available. The X3 provided ample headroom and legroom for all passengers, with a commanding driving position for the front row. Real buttons and dials complemented the main touchscreen, making it user-friendly.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements, such as pop-out door handles, paddle shifters, and a twisting rotary shifter. The climate controls and stereo shortcuts were combined in a thin touchscreen, which could be frustrating to use while driving. The EV6 offered generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, its cargo space was limited to 24 cubic feet behind the seats and 50 cubic feet when folded. Towing capacity was rated at 2,300 pounds, and the onboard power generator could run 120-volt equipment or charge another EV.

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, with Android Auto available as an option. Additional options included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. Gesture control was also available, allowing basic controls through hand movements.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was simple and quick, with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The instrument panel displayed vehicles in surrounding lanes and a 3D bar graph of power and speed. The EV6 featured blind-spot monitoring with live feeds, a 360-degree surround-view camera, customizable "engine" sounds, and an augmented reality head-up display. Higher trims included a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and a remote parking system. However, Kia Connect features were disabled for Massachusetts residents due to compliance issues.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features, including 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 features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Kia EV6 had no published test results but offered impressive standard safety tech, including lane-keeping, cyclist and pedestrian detection, front and rear cross-traffic alert, a driver attention monitor, rear parking sensors, safe exit warning, and rear occupant alert. Higher trims added front parking sensors, automatic rear braking, 360 cameras, evasive steering assist, and adaptive cruise control with "machine learning."