13 Cars Similar to the BMW X3

The 2022 BMW X3 exudes luxury and practicality in addition to a wonderful blend of BMW’s patented driving fun. With a balanced chassis, sporty steering, and the availability of two turbocharged engines, the X3 appeals to buyers across a wide spectrum of needs and interests. For 2022, the X3 receives a refreshed front fascia to include a new grille, headlamps, and taillamps along with a tweaked rear end.

Available with both a traditional gas engine and a hybrid, the X3 is available in three trim models – sDrive30i, xDrive30i, and M40i, with pricing starting at $44,695 and topping the chart at $58.795. In addition to the BMW X3, buyers have a number of options in the compact luxury SUV segment with our top three competitors being:

• 2022 Audi Q5
• 2022 Mercedes GLC
• 2022 Porsche Macan

Let’s explore the top XXX cars that are similar to the BMW X3.

1. Audi Q5

An excellent alternative to the BMW X3, the 2022 Q5 is standard with Audi’s proven and capable Quattro All-Wheel-Drive system that allows you to tackle any terrain with ease. Standard with a 201-horsepower engine paired to a seven-speed automatic transmission, buyers can also choose to blaze around town in speed and style by upgrading to the 45 model that increases horsepower to 261-hp. A plug-in hybrid engine adds an electric motor that helps blast the Q5 from 0-60 in 4.5 seconds.

For gasoline engines, the fuel economy is rated at 23 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. Prices range from $44,000 to $65,000. More information on the 2022 Q5 can be obtained via Audi’s website or by clicking here. 

2. Mercedes GLC

Designed for the driver that wants luxury above all else, the 2022 Mercedes GLC delivers on all levels with an abundance of technology and driver assistance features that will make you envious. Although the base engine only emits 255-hp, the GLC is surprisingly quick with a 0-60 time in the mid-5 seconds. For 2022, the GLC includes new standard features such as automatic high-beams, parking damage detection, and USB ports for second-row packages.

Additionally, the Premium package is now available with passive hands-free entry and Starling Blue Metallic joins the lineup as a new color option. With pricing that starts at $44,900, the GLC offers a spacious cabin, plenty of cargo space, and an EPA estimated MPG of 22 city and 29 highway. More information can be found at Mercedes’ website. 

3. Porsche Macan

Like a true Porsche, the 2022 Macan feels at home on the racetrack or running errands around town. Buyers can choose from three models – Base ($56,250), S (466,250) and GTS ($81,250). When it comes to choosing which model, the S offers an excellent blend of performance, comfort, and luxury with standard features including a large 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an upgraded 10 speaker Audi system and LED headlights.

Opting for the Premium package rewards the buyer with heated front and rear seats, adaptive headlights, and a 14-speaker audio system. If power is a priority, then you’ll want to experience the thrill of the 434-hp twin-turbo V6 on the GTS model that rockets you from 0-60 in only 3.5 seconds. Head to Porsche’s website for more information on the Macan. 

4. Jaguar F-Pace

Combining unparalleled performance with an award-winning design, the 2022 Jaguar F-Pace is a strong alternative to the BMW X3. Available in four trim levels with pricing from $52,050 to $66,650, all F-Pace variants are standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The base turbocharged 2.0 liter four-cylinder is more than adequate, generating 246 hp and a 5.5 second 0-60 time.

Fuel economy is comparable to other similar vehicles with the EPA rating the turbocharged 4-cylinder at 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.  More information on the 2022 F-Pace can be obtained via Jaguar’s website or by clicking here. 

5. Genesis GV70

Considered a rising star in the luxury vehicle segment, the GV70 offers a wonderful blend of luxury, comfort, and style that is sure to impress. Pricing for the 2022 Genesis GV70 starts at $41,000 for the 2.5T AWD Standard and other models are as follows:

• 2.5 AWD Select: $45,000
• 2.5 AWD Advanced: $49,150
• 2.5 AWD Sport Prestige: $52.750
• 3.5T AWD Standard: $52,600
• 3.5T AWD Sport Advanced: $57,600
• 3.5T AWD Sport Prestige: $62,500

The 2.5 model is equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine and an EPA estimated 22 city and 28 highway MPG. Opting for the 3.5 variant unlocks a turbocharged V6 with 375 horsepower and an EPA estimated 19 city and 25 highway MPG. More information on the 2022 GV70 can be obtained via Genesis’ website or by clicking here. 

6. Acura RDX

If you are looking for the ultimate blend of style, luxury, and performance, then the 2022 Acura RDX is calling your name. Similar to the BMW X3 in many aspects, the RDX is an excellent alternative with a fully loaded model priced out at just over $52,000 – making it a relative bargain in the compact luxury SUV segment. Inside the RDX, you’ll find an elegant interior complete with contrast stitching, two-tone seats, retro materials and a state-of-the art infotainment system that is innovative and advanced.

Every RDX is powered by a 272-hp turbocharged 2.0 liter four-cylinder that is paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission and either front-or all-wheel-drive. Fuel economy for the FWD version is slightly better than AWD with an EPA rating estimated at 22 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. More information on the 2022 Acura RDX can be obtained here. 

7. Alfa Romeo Stelvio

Likely one of the most beautiful SUVs you’ll ever see the 2022 Alfa Romeo Stelvio includes three trim levels – Stelvio ($47,145), Ti ($52,095), and Veloce ($53,895). When it comes to deciding which trim to purchase, most buyers will achieve the most bang for their bucks with the Stelvio Ti as it comes standard with AWD and features like 19-inch premium wheels, built-in navigation, and a dual-pane sunroof. Available on all three trims, the Stelvio’s turbocharged four-cylinder delivers plenty of punch with 280-horsepower and a 0-60 time in the mid 5-seconds.

Fuel economy is comparable to the BMW X3 with a EPA estimated 22 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. 

8. Volvo XC60

Known for their elegant design, Volvo hits the styling out of the park with the 2022 Volvo XC60. With style as a priority, the interior of the XC60 offers an oasis for anyone that has a long commute. Three different powertrains are offered – with a plug-in hybrid being available.

Although cargo space isn’t as big as other competitors like the BMW X3, it should offer enough to get the job done. Tasteful interior choices include soft-touch materials, luxurious seats, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge display. Safety is a priority with the XC60 and each of the 7 trim levels include a host of driver assistance features.

Pricing starts at $43,745 for the Momentum model and tops the scale at $70,595 for the Recharge Polestar Engineered. Performance is strong with the top of the line model receiving two electric motors and a 295-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder that outputs a combined 455 hp. 

9. Jeep Grand Cherokee

Not only is the Jeep Grand Cherokee the most awarded SUV ever, but it is also an excellent alternative to the BMW X3. Buyers have a myriad of trims to choose from that allow you to customize what type of Grand Cherokee you want from a rugged off-road SUV to one that is luxuriously appointed. Engine options include both V6 and V8 variants, with the V8 offering a heart stopping 360 hp.

Fuel economy is not as impressive, with a combined city and highway MPG of 22. Pricing starts at $36,000 and tops out at about $55,000. More information on the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee can be found here.

10. Lincoln Corsair

Despite sharing a platform with the Ford Escape, the Lincoln Corsair offers an abundance of style, luxury, and comfort features that make it an excellent option in this vehicle segment. Responsive handling and a smooth ride make the Corsair a popular option for anyone that wants an exceptionally comfortable SUV. For 2022, the Corsair is available in three trims – Standard, Reserve, and Grand Touring – with pricing ranging from $37,565 to $52.790.

To receive the most value for your money, the Reserve trim should be your choice with standard features including a panoramic sunroof, hands-free power liftgate, 14-speaker Revel audio system, heated front seats, and much more. Performance is slightly lacking from the X3 and other vehicles in the class, with either a 250-hp 2.0 liter or 280-hp 2.3 liter four-cylinder engine being options. Less than stellar acceleration is reported with a 0-60 time of 7.3 seconds. 

11. Lexus NX

Completely redesigned for 2022, the Lexus NX is now better equipped to compete with rivals like the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. Although the NX has a starting price below $40,000, the base model is likely to be too sparse for most buyers. Opting for the mid-range NX350 delivers a 275-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine with class-leading performance.

Adding the Luxury package means that you’ll receive a large 14.0-inch infotainment system, quilted leather seats, in-dash navigation, 20-inch wheels, and adaptive headlamps. The mid-range NX350 can gallop from 0 to 60 MPH in 6.6 seconds,  which is in the middle of the pack for the luxury compact SUV class. 

12. Land Rover Discovery Sport

If off-road technology is a priority, then the Land Rover Discovery Sport should be at the top of your list. Featuring a rugged design, spacious cabin, and optional third row seating, the Discovery Sport also has a power-operated rear liftgage, wireless smartphone charging pad, and heated front seats. Four models are available – S, S R-Dynamic, SE, and SE R-Dynamic with a starting MSRP ranging from $44,250 to $49,550.

No matter the trim selected, each Discovery Sport is powered by a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine making 246 horsepower. Acceleration is not strong with a 0-60 time of 7.5 seconds; however, the Discovery Sport is capable of wading through 23.6 inches of water and towing more than 4400 pounds. Fuel economy estimates are slightly below others in the field with an EPA rating of 19 MPG city and 23 MPG highway.

13. Volkswagen Tiguan

For 2022, the Tiguan receives new styling that includes revised LED headlamps, a refreshed and handsome grille, along with an abundance of new or now standard features that help improve the SUV to better compete in this class. As a more affordable option than the BMW X3, the Tiguan starts at $27,000 with an MSRP for the top-level SEL R-line at $38,000. Although less expensive, that price savings does not come at a cost, with the Tiguan coming equipped with less luxurious features.