Tall people receive many benefits based on their size, but being tall is a constant struggle for car enthusiasts. With many sports cars offering minimal leg-room for the average-sized person, legroom, headroom, and driving comfort can seem a chore, especially in the realm of luxury SUVs. Luckily, Consumer Reports explained how the 2022 Audi Q3 and 2022 BMW X3 give tall drivers something they drive. 

A tall order with the BMW X3 and Audi Q3

Even giant SUVs are typically built for the average-sized driver. Much like airline seats and low-cushion couches and love seats, tall people have a hard time getting in and out while staying comfortable. For this reason, many prefer large pickups and SUVs to offset any legroom and comfort issues. However, Consumer Reports notes that there is more to check on regarding tall drivers.

“When judging cars, I pay particular attention to the balance of legroom, headroom, and comfortable reach to the steering wheel,” says Consumer Reports’ Ryan Pszczolkowski. “Having a steering wheel that can tilt and telescope makes a big difference.”

At 6 feet 2 inches, Pszczolkowski might not make it to the NBA any day soon, but he represents a large number of slightly north-of-average drivers who struggle to fit into the average car. The tests found that while compact SUVs are not ideal for tall drivers, two leading contenders take the cake for drivers who want a compact and roomy SUV.

2022 Audi Q3 

Consumer Reports notes that while the 2022 Audi Q3 isn’t the best option for drivers, it’s one of the best for tall drivers who do not need anything fancy. The Q3 comes with plenty of concerns, from shoddy long-term reliability. However, Audi’s SUV is easy to use and gives drivers, especially those who don’t need something fancy and robust, 

Consumer Reports notes how this luxury SUV handles quite well with a finely-tuned brake system that keeps its drivers safe. The 228-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is adequate, if not slightly underwhelming. The same can be said about its fuel economy. However, where the car lacks robust performance, it makes up for in its interior design. 

The Q3 has a roomy interior built for tall drivers. The Q3 boasts four flexible options to fit every driver’s need. This means that tall drivers won’t have to stoop over the wheel to fit inside, nor will they need to put the seat too far back. The four-way lumbar adjustment lets them keep a healthy driving position with minimal discomfort. 

However, while the Q3 is one of the website’s favorite options, the BMW X3 is their choice as the best option. 

2022 BMW X3 

While the Q3 got a Consumer Report score of 67, the 2022 BMW X3 was well-reviewed and built for tall drivers. With a  four-cylinder engine and 24 miles per gallon, it outperforms the Q3 beneath the hood. Furthermore, it scored a scorching 92 on the road test, and while it has similar reliability issues, the car also performed better. The biggest concern is a steeper learning curve, but in the end, the X3 stands taller than the Q3 in more ways than one. 

The seats stand upright without sacrificing a tall driver’s posture. Furthermore, the large doors make getting in and out of the car easier for those who might typically struggle in a compact vehicle such as this. The well-customized interior lets drivers slide and adjust their way into what’s natural for them without sacrificing the driver’s standard wants and needs. 

Driving a compact SUV is often a chore for large drivers. Thankfully,  the Q3 and X3 give drivers some flexibility. While the X3 might be good for people who want simplicity, the Q3 provides the gearhead with something to look forward to. In the end, Consumer Reports sees it as the ultimate compact SUV for tall drivers to get behind. 

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