2026 BMW X3 vs. X5 – Side-by-Side Comparison with Price, Specs, & Photos
The two best-selling BMW models in the US are the X3 and X5, thanks to a combination of robust drivetrains, luxurious interiors, and the kind of utility you can only find in an SUV platform. And while all of these important qualities are shared by both vehicles, there are still some differences, and if you’re in the market for an SUV, it’s important to know what those differences are so you can make the right decision. So let’s take a closer look at these two models and what sets them apart from one another.
X3 VS X5 – Highlights
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| 2026 BMW X3 | VS | 2026 BMW X5 |
| $51,300 | Starting MSRP* | $68,300 |
| 2.0-liter I4 – 255 HP | Standard Engine | 3.0-liter I6 – 375 HP |
| 3.0-liter I6 – 393 HP | Available Engine(s) | 3.0-liter I6 PHEV – 483 HP 4.4-liter V8 – 523 HP 4.4-liter V8 – 617 HP |
| All-wheel drive | Drivetrain Configuration | Rear-wheel drive, AWD available |
| 4,176 pounds | Curb Weight | 4,919 pounds |
| 5 | Seats | 5 |
| 27 / 33 / 29 | Fuel Economy MPG (city / highway / combined) | 23 / 27 / 25 |
As you can see, both vehicles have their advantages. From the start, it’s easy to see the price advantage enjoyed by the X3, but it is also lighter and gets better fuel economy than the X5. That price advantage is actually better than it first appears, since the X3 comes with standard all-wheel drive, which costs extra on the X5. But the X5 comes with more standard power, as well additional options for even more power. This includes a plug-in hybrid option that’s perfect for someone who needs a bigger SUV, but doesn’t want to pay more at the pump for it. While the V8-powered versions of the X5 are the quickest, including an astonishingly quick 3.7-second 0-60 time for the X5 M Competition, while the highest performance version of the X3 – the lighter I6-powered X3 M50 xDrive manages it in 4.4 seconds. Both comfortably accommodate 5 passengers, but there is certainly a difference in overall size between these two SUVs, which brings us to our next section.
X3 VS X5 – Dimensions
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| 2026 BMW X3 | VS | 2026 BMW X5 |
| 187.2 inches | Overall Length | 194.3 inches |
| 112.8 inches | Wheelbase | 117.1 inches |
| 20 feet | Turning Radius | 20.6 feet |
| 75.6 inches | Width | 78.9 inches |
| 65.4 inches | Height | 69.5 inches |
| 31.5 cubic feet | Cargo Space (back seats up) | 33.9 cubic feet |
| 67.1 cubic feet | Cargo Space (back seats folded) | 72.3 cubic feet |
The X3 is a compact SUV, while the X5 is a mid-sized SUV; what this translates to for you is a bit more shoulder room from side to side, and cargo space behind the rear seats. The X5 is also taller by nearly 4 inches, and you’ll experience this as a tad more headroom in the larger SUV as well. BMW being BMW means that even though the X5 is longer by over 7 inches – there is hardly any difference in turning radius, demonstrating BMW’s commitment to nimble driving dynamics regardless of overall size. In short, everything that makes a great BMW SUV is present in both models, and the question of which one is right for you mostly comes down to your needs for additional room and performance needs.
*Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for vehicle as shown does not necessarily represent the dealer’s actual sale price and does not include tax, title, license, registration and adjusted market value. Dealer sets actual price. Please consult your selected dealer.