2021 BMW X3 Vs 2021 BMW X5: Which Luxury SUV Is Better?

BMW X3 vs. BMW X5: Compare Specs, Features & Performance Shop BMW X5 Shop BMW X3

Since you’re here, you’re probably deciding between the 2026 BMW X3 and 2026 X5.

You're not alone. Both are among BMW’s most popular luxury SUVs.

And you likely have tons of questions, such as "What is the main difference between the BMW X3 and X5?" or "How much bigger is the X5 than the X3?"

At BMW of Devon, we have the answers to those questions and many more. Below, we break down everything you should know to determine which is right for you.

• BMW X3 vs. X5: Frequently Asked Questions

X3 vs. X5: Performance Overview

• Class & Size: X3 = compact SUV; X5 = midsize SUV. The X5’s larger footprint translates to more second-row comfort and cargo.
• Power: The 2026 X3 30 xDrive produces 255 hp and the M50 gets up to 393 hp. The 2026 X5 xDrive40i generates 375 hp, and the X5 xDrive50e plug-in hybrid gets up to 483 hp.
• 0–60 mph (manufacturer est.): It's about 6 seconds for the X3 30 xDrive and roughly 4.4 seconds for the M50. The X5 sDrive40i can go 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds, the xDrive40i in 5.2 seconds, and the xDrive50e in 4.6 seconds. X5 M Models can eclipse the mark in 4.2 seconds (M60i) and 3.7 seconds (M Competition).
• Towing: The X3 tows up to 4,850 lbs. The X5 can haul up to 7,200 lbs.
• Pricing (MSRP): The X3 30 xDrive starts at $50,900 and the M50 begins at $65,900. The X5 starts at $67,600 for the sDrive40i and goes up to $129,700 for the M Competition. Dealer sets actual price.

Side-by-Side Spec Comparison

Model	2026 BMW X3	2026 BMW X5
Starting Price	$50,900 MSRP (30 xDrive Base)	$67,600 MSRP (sDrive40i Base)
Standard Engine	2.0L turbocharged inline-4 (255 hp)	3.0L turbocharged inline-6 (375 hp)
All-Wheel Drive	Standard	Available (standard on xDrive50e & M models; optional on 40i via xDrive40i)
Max Horsepower	Up to 393 hp (M50)	Up to 617 hp (M Competition)
Fuel Economy	Up to 29 MPG combined (30 xDrive)	Up to 25 MPG combined (xDrive40i)
Plug-In Hybrid	Not available	xDrive50e (up to 38 miles of all-electric range)
Dimensions	187.2" L x 75.6" W x 65.4" H	194.2" L x 78.9" W x 69.5" H
Seating Capacity	5	5
Headroom (Front/Rear)	40.5 in / 38.5 in	40.7 in / 39.4 in
Legroom (Front/Rear)	40.2 in / 36.3 in	39.8 in / 37.4 in
Cargo Space (Rear/Max)	31.5 cu ft / 67.1 cu ft	33.9 cu ft / 72.3 cu ft (xDrive50e: 33 / 71.2)
Towing Capacity	Up to 4,850 lbs. (M50)	Up to 7,200 lbs.

Who Should Choose Which?

Pick the 2026 BMW X3 if you want:

• City-friendly size: easy parking, and a lower starting price.
• Fresh tech: equipped with iDrive 9 and a rotary controller many shoppers prefer.
• Strong utility for a compact SUV: up to about 67 cu ft cargo and up to 4,850 lbs. towing when equipped.

View New BMW X3s for Sale View BMW X3 Lease Offers

Pick the 2026 BMW X5 if you want:

• More room and refinement, plus more power at the lower trim levels.
• Serious towing: up to 7,200 lbs. and available hands-free Highway Assistant up to 85 mph (when equipped).
• Quiet, composed long-trip comfort: with a larger footprint for second-row car-seat space.

View New BMW X5s for Sale View BMW X5 Lease Offers

Safety Comparison

As of this writing, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) safety ratings for the 2026 BMW X3 and X5 haven't been released.

The 2025 BMW X5 earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. The All-Wheel Drive variants received a 4/5 Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA. The Rear-Wheel Drive sDrive40i wasn't evaluated.

The 2025 BMW X3 showed strong crash-test results, but isn't listed among the IIHS award winners. The NHTSA gave it a 4/5 Overall Safety Rating.

• BMW X3 vs. X5: Feature Comparison

Owner Insights

• Family fit: More families of four lean towards the X5 for its extra width and road-trip comfort.
• Trim strategy: Enthusiasts consider the X3 because of its high-performing M50 variant. Others favor the X5 for plusher seats and driver-assist availability.
• Ordering tip: When lots are lean, ask dealerships like ours to check allocations/build dates. Consider a build-to-order to get your exact spec.

Side-by-Side Feature Comparison

Model	Trim	Standard Features	Available Features
2026 BMW X3	30 xDrive (Base)	Standard xDrive AWD and 8-speed automatic BMW Curved Display (12.3-inch + 14.9-inch touchscreen) Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, wireless charging Sensatec upholstery, heated sport seats, dual-zone climate Active Driving Assistant with blind-spot, lane departure, and park sensors	Premium Package: HUD, adaptive cruise, 360° camera, Harman Kardon audio M Sport Package: aero kit, Shadowline trim, adaptive suspension M Sport Professional Package: M brakes, differential, illuminated grille Driving Assistance Professional: Highway Assistant, lane-keeping Options: ventilated seats, Vernasca leather, Sky Lounge roof
2026 BMW X5	sDrive40i (Base)	Rear-wheel drive (xDrive AWD available) 20-inch wheels, panoramic moonroof Sensafin upholstery, heated front seats, multi-zone climate BMW Curved Display with iDrive 8.5 Driver aids: forward collision warning, blind-spot, lane departure, parking sensors	xDrive AWD version M Sport Package: aero kit, Shadowline trim, adaptive M suspension Luxury Seating: ventilated, massaging multi-contour seats Premium/Executive Packages: soft-close doors, Sky Lounge LED roof Driving Assistance Pro: Highway Assistant, adaptive cruise, lane-keeping Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins Diamond sound
2026 BMW X3	M50 xDrive (Top)	xDrive AWD, adaptive M suspension, M Sport differential M styling: quad exhaust, Shadowline trim, 20-inch wheels Panoramic moonroof, heated wheel, sport seats 12-speaker audio, Curved Display with M graphics	Premium Package: HUD, Harman Kardon audio, Parking Assistant Plus M Sport Professional upgrades: extended Shadowline, colored calipers Optional ventilated seats, premium leather, 21-inch wheels
2026 BMW X5	M60i (Top)	xDrive AWD, M brakes, adaptive suspension, M differential M aerodynamic kit, Shadowline trim, quad exhaust Vernasca leather, ventilated heated seats Head-Up Display, Harman Kardon audio, panoramic moonroof	Executive Package: soft-close doors, crystal controls, cooled cupholders Driving Assistance Pro: semi-autonomous highway driving Adaptive M Suspension Professional with rear-wheel steering Full Merino leather, massaging seats, rear entertainment Bowers & Wilkins Diamond 20-speaker audio

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the BMW X3 and X5?

The 2026 BMW X5 is a larger midsize SUV with stronger engine options and more towing capacity. The X3 is a compact SUV that’s easier to park and starts at a lower price. It also offers an M50 variant that produces 393 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque.

How much bigger is the X5 than the X3?

The BMW X5 is about 7 inches longer than the X3 (194.3" vs 187.2"), around 3 inches wider (78.9" vs 75.6"), and almost 4 inches taller (69.1" vs 65.4"). That footprint brings more cargo and second-row space.

>X5 Dimensions

Does the BMW X5 have a third row?

There's a lot of outdated info online claiming the X5 has an optional third row. For the U.S. market, the 2026 BMW X5 doesn't offer a factory third-row seat. If you need three rows, choose the X7 instead. Earlier model years did offer a small third row as a paid option, but that no longer applies.

Is the BMW X5 worth it over the X3?

If you value maximum space, towing (up to 7,200 lbs.), and the xDrive50e plug-in hybrid’s fuel efficiency, paying more for the X5 makes sense. If you prioritize price, maneuverability, and parking ease, the X3 is a better choice.

Which is faster: BMW X3 M50 or X5 40i and 50e?

The X3 M50 is faster. It can go from 0-60 mph in just over 4 seconds. The X5 xDrive50e PHEV runs about 4.6 seconds, and the X5 xDrive40i model is a little over 5 seconds.

What is the towing capacity of the X3 vs X5?

When properly equipped, the X3 can tow up to 4,850 lbs. (with the optional hitch). The X5 can tow up to 7,200 lbs. with the factory hitch installed. Always confirm equipment, payload, and local regulations before towing.

How far can the X5 xDrive50e go on electricity?

The X5 xDrive50e PHEV gets up to 38 miles of all-electric range when fully charged. This is ideal for short commutes and errands.

Is the BMW X3 big enough for two child seats?

For many families, yes. X3 owners have reported being able to fit one front-facing and one rear-facing seat. But we suggest bringing car seats with you on the test drive. For extra breathing room on long trips, the X5 is a better choice.

Is the BMW X3 or BMW X5 more expensive to maintain?

The BMW X5 is over $130 a year more expensive to maintain than the BMW X3. According to RepairPal, the average annual maintenance cost for a BMW X3 is around $1,034 and the BMW X5 is about $1,166 per year. That means the X5 can cost roughly 10–15% more in routine upkeep. That said, new 2026 model data is limited, so these figures derive from past model performance and trends. The X5’s added size and systems generally drive slightly higher wear, parts, and labor demands.

BMW of Devon’s Bottom Line: BMW X3 vs. X5

For daily value and easy parking, choose the X3 30 xDrive. Step up to the M50 if you want a big power bump.

For road trips, towing, and maximum comfort, pick the X5. Consider the xDrive50e if you can charge at home.

Tech-first shoppers will appreciate the X5’s available Highway Assistant, while the X3 keeps iDrive 9 with a traditional rotary controller.

We're Your 2026 BMW X3 & X5 Destination on the Main Line

At BMW of Devon, you can do more than research these luxury SUVs. You can also experience them for yourself. We have many in-stock. Shop inventory and personalize your payments online in minutes.

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Our Client Advisors are X3 and X5 specialists. Whether it's fitting your car seat, setting you up for towing, or going over tech features, we're here to help. If you have a question, use the contact form below. A BMW of Devon expert will reply quickly.

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