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Today, we're taking a hard look at the BMW X3 vs. the competition: How does this BMW SUV stack up against its top Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Lexus, Volvo, and Genesis rivals, and is it truly your best luxury two-row SUV option? At Braman BMW Miami, we're naturally partial to the BMW X3 – after all, it does have the best MPG and cargo space – but other brands have their benefits, too.
Stay near the top of this page for quick overviews of which vehicles win in critical areas and a dynamic model comparison chart, or scroll down for a more detailed exploration of the BMW X3 vs. the competition. Ready to dive in? Buckle up, because we're on a fact-finding mission.
| Features | BMW X3 | Mercedes-Benz GLC |
|---|---|---|
| Base-Trim Engine | 2.0L 4-cyl | 2.0L 4-cyl |
| Base-Trim Horsepower | 255 | 255 |
| Base-Trim Drivetrain | AWD | RWD |
| EPA-Est MPG (Comb.) | 29 MPG1 | 26 / 27 MPG2 |
| Towing Capacity | 4,001 lbs8 | 3,500 lbs9 |
| Standard Cargo Capacity | 31.5 cu ft | 21.9 cu ft |
| Front Legroom | 40.2 in | 40.7 in |
| Rear Legroom | 36.3 in | 37.4 in |
| Standard Center Display | 14.9 in | 11.9 in |
| Standard Voice Command | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Wireless Device Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Power Tailgate | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Heated Front Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Features | BMW X3 | Audi Q5 |
|---|---|---|
| Base-Trim Engine | 2.0L 4-cyl | 2.0L 4-cyl |
| Base-Trim Horsepower | 255 | 268 |
| Base-Trim Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| EPA-Est MPG (Comb.) | 29 MPG1 | 25 MPG3 |
| Towing Capacity | 4,001 lbs8 | 4,400 lbs8 |
| Standard Cargo Capacity | 31.5 cu ft | 27.6 cu ft |
| Front Legroom | 40.2 in | 40.9 in |
| Rear Legroom | 36.3 in | 38 in |
| Standard Center Display | 14.9 in | 14.5 in |
| Standard Voice Command | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Wireless Device Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Power Tailgate | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Heated Front Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Features | BMW X3 | Lexus RX 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Base-Trim Engine | 2.0L 4-cyl | 2.4L 4-cyl |
| Base-Trim Horsepower | 255 | 275 |
| Base-Trim Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| EPA-Est MPG (Comb.) | 29 MPG1 | 24 / 25 MPG4,5 |
| Towing Capacity | 4,001 lbs8 | 3,500 lbs10 |
| Standard Cargo Capacity | 31.5 cu ft | 29.6 cu ft |
| Front Legroom | 40.2 in | 41.1 in |
| Rear Legroom | 36.3 in | 37.4 in |
| Standard Center Display | 14.9 in | 12.3 in |
| Standard Voice Command | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Wireless Device Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Power Tailgate | Yes | No |
| Standard Heated Front Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Features | BMW X3 | Volvo XC60 |
|---|---|---|
| Base-Trim Engine | 2.0L 4-cyl | 2.0L 4-cyl |
| Base-Trim Horsepower | 255 | 247 |
| Base-Trim Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| EPA-Est MPG (Comb.) | 29 MPG1 | 26 MPG6 |
| Towing Capacity | 4,001 lbs8 | 3,500 lbs8 |
| Standard Cargo Capacity | 31.5 cu ft | 17 cu ft |
| Front Legroom | 40.2 in | 41.5 in |
| Rear Legroom | 36.3 in | 38 in |
| Standard Center Display | 14.9 in | 11.2 in |
| Standard Voice Command | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Wireless Device Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Power Tailgate | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Heated Front Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Features | BMW X3 | Genesis GV70 |
|---|---|---|
| Base-Trim Engine | 2.0L 4-cyl | 2.5L 4-cyl |
| Base-Trim Horsepower | 255 | 300 |
| Base-Trim Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| EPA-Est MPG (Comb.) | 29 MPG1 | 22 / 23 MPG7 |
| Towing Capacity | 4,001 lbs8 | 3,500 lbs11 |
| Standard Cargo Capacity | 31.5 cu ft | 28.9 cu ft |
| Front Legroom | 40.2 in | 41.3 |
| Rear Legroom | 36.3 in | 37.2 in |
| Standard Center Display | 14.9 in | 27 in |
| Standard Voice Command | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Wireless Device Charging | Yes | No |
| Standard Power Tailgate | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Heated Front Seats | Yes | Yes |
These SUVs are fitted with identical powertrains and come with standard smartphone charging pads, but that's where the similarities stop. The BMW X3 wins nearly every critical category, from best combined MPG and highest towing capacity to biggest center touchscreen and largest standard cargo space – and it has standard all-wheel drive. Want other comparisons? Check out our BMW X3 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLC guide.
Both the BMW X3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC have undeniably sophisticated cabins, but you'll spend less on fuel and fit more in your trunk in a BMW X3.
In this BMW X3 vs. the competition review, the Audi Q5 is likely the fiercest competitor – both have standard AWD, heated front rows, and near-identical touchscreen sizes of more than 14 inches. The Audi model boasts slightly higher horsepower and a bit more tow strength, but if day-to-day fuel efficiency, sportier handling, and more trunk storage are important, the BMW X3 is your clear winner.
These SUVs shine in unique ways, so the "best" option depends on your priorities: The Audi Q5 can tow a few hundred pounds more, but the BMW X3 outperforms in most daily-life categories.
The major pro of the Lexus RX 350 is its high horsepower, but somehow, its 0-60 is still a sluggish 7.2 or 7.6 seconds; meanwhile, the new BMW X3 hits 60 mph in 6 seconds flat. We're fans of the Lexus model's front and rear legroom, and even though this model comes closest to the BMW SUV's cargo specs, it still doesn't take the crown. You'll also enjoy a standard power tailgate in the BMW X3, something the Lexus RX 350 reserves for more expensive trims.
Compared to the Lexus RX 350, the BMW X3 gives you more bang for your buck in towing, fuel economy, and must-have power features.
At first, the Volvo XC60 looks like a strong competitor with its premium front legroom and crystal gear selector, but unfortunately, this Volvo model can't tow as well or capture as good an MPG rating as the BMW X3. The tiny 17-cubic-foot Volvo trunk may present quite a challenge for families who need ample space for groceries and gear. Both SUVs do, however, come with power lumbar support for long drives.
Volvo XC60 legroom eats into its trunk storage, while the BMW X3 balances its cabin for thoughtful space throughout.
If a muscular engine is all you're after, the GV70 is a great choice; just remember you'll pay for those 300 ponies with fuel economy. Trunk space is also noteworthy in this Genesis SUV, but still not up to the BMW X3 standard. On paper, the Genesis and its 27-inch OLED display look impressive, but remember that the BMW X3 has 27.2 inches of total display width between its instrument and infotainment screens.
The Genesis GV70 offers stronger engine outputs, but sadly doesn't measure up to the BMW X3 in towing, trunk space, or fuel efficiency.
If this guide has solidified the BMW X3 as your top choice for a two-row luxury SUV, you can find its gorgeous 2026 trim levels at our Miami dealership. Stop by to see how its cavernous 31.5-cubic-foot trunk, relaxing front row, and voice-command technology could make every Florida drive sweeter.
1Preliminary EPA-estimated figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on speed, driving habits, trip length and driving conditions; actual mileage may be lower.
2EPA-estimated fuel economy. Compare the estimated MPG to the estimated MPG of other vehicles. You may get different mileage depending on how fast you drive, weather conditions and trip length. Your actual highway mileage will probably be less than the highway estimate.
325 combined city/hwy MPG (2026 Audi Q5). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors including your driving habits and vehicle condition.
4EPA-estimated 24 comb MPG rating for 2026 Lexus RX 350 AWD. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov.
5EPA-estimated 25 comb MPG rating for 2026 Lexus RX 350. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov.
6EPA estimated range is 26 MPG combined (B5 Gas AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
7All figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition.
8When properly equipped.
9With optional trailer hitch. Read Operator's Manual before towing. In some states, aftermarket trailer brakes are required. See dealer for details.
10Never tow beyond a vehicle's published towing capacities. Rating based on testing requirements prescribed in SAE J2807. Rating referenced in Owner's Manual may differ depending on testing standard used. Installation of accessories located near the rear bumper may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. Follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual.
11When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
