BMW X1 vs X3

So it's that time again to upgrade to a new vehicle. Maybe you're ready to step up to the luxury class for the first time, or you're interested in what a crossover SUV can offer that a typical sedan cannot. Either way, you've landed on the BMW X Series lineup as a potential option. Good choice.

The X Series helped transform the North American SUV segment with powerful-yet-efficient models based on the frame of the wildly popular BMW 3-Series. Since the emergence of the X Series, most of BMW's immediate competitors have released a model in the luxury crossover segment, including the Mercedes-Benz GLK, Audi Q5, Acura RDX and Infiniti EX. 

The BMW X1 is the smallest SUV in the BMW lineup, placing an emphasis on elite fuel economy. The BMW X3 is more powerful and is rated for towing up to 3,000 pounds, while still retaining respectable fuel efficiency ratings. If you are strongly considering a BMW luxury SUV, use this BMW X1 vs. X3 comparison to ensure you make the best choice based on all of your driving needs.

BMW X1 vs X3 Tale of the Tape

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Pricing and cost of ownership

Recent car rankings list both the BMW X1 and X3 models among the most affordable in the luxury SUV class. The difference between the base price of the BMW X1 vs. X3, however, is substantial, with the X1 coming in at $30,900, nearly ten grand less than the $39,800 for the base X3. Upgrading to a 3.0 L V6 will add about $5,000 to the X3 price tag and about $8,000 to the X1 along with an all-wheel-drive upgrade. If a modest price tag is the number one priority for your next vehicle, the X1 is the clear winner.

If low cost of ownership and efficienct fuel economy are both on your list of priorities, neither the X3 or X1 will disappoint, but the X1 has truly elite MPG ratings. WIth the base four-cylinder engine, the  X1 averages 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. That's comparable to top economy sedans like the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima. The BMW X3 earns a respectable 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, which is solid for an SUV.

Performance and handling

When it comes to performance, the BMW X1 vs. X3 comparison shows both models have the power and handling drivers have come to expect from BMW. Many reviews prefer the base 4-cylinder engine for the X1 because it delivers that fabulous MPG rating while still retaining the sporty and athletic performance BMW has come to hang its hat on.

For the price, the engine upgrade may not be worth it; the six-cylinder feels more like a lumbering SUV, while the four-cylinder gives the X1 the feel of a 3-Series sedan. With a 34 MPG rating on the highway, the X1 has truly elite fuel economy for any vehicle class, but especially for SUVs. It has a tight suspension that is never rough, and communicative steering that's never jerky. 

The BMW X3 has the same base four-cylinder engine as the X1, though the X3 comes standard with AWD. It gets the same amount of horsepower, but because the X3 is bigger and heavier, the performance is not as sporty as the X1. Performance and handling reviews were still positive, citing a calm and steady ride with ample power for almost any driving situation.

One criticism is the auto stop-start between applying the brakes and gas, which can be annoying in heavy traffic. The transition between stopping and starting isn't particularly smooth. Both the turbocharged four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines are explosive, with the four-cylinder going from zero-sixty in about six seconds, while the six-cylinder is capable of topping 60 mph in about five seconds. 

Options and features

If you're shopping for a luxury sport utility vehicle, you're probably interested in all the advanced high-tech options and features that go along with the elite performance and handling, and both of these models have plenty. Both the BMW X1 vs. BMW X3 include the iDrive infotainment system and offer a host of available communications and tech options, including:

• Bluetooth wireless connectivity
• Navigation with real-time traffic information
• USB Port
• Rearview camera
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Satellite radio
• 11-speaker Harman/Kardon surround-sound system 

Reviews for the iDrive infotainment are mostly mostly positive, citing that the system is intuitive and easy to use, even while driving, allowing you to easily control audio, smartphone and navigation functions. 

Safety features

If keeping your family safe on the road is your top priority, both the X1 and X3 scored exceptional marks in crash tests and host a wealth of standard safety features. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave Top Safety Picks to the X1 and the X3. Airbags protect the driver and passenger from the front, rear and side. You can also find features and options that help make driving in tough situations easier, including the following:

• 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
• Brake assist
• Electronic stability control
• Traction control
• Lane departure warning
• Daytime running lights
• Rain-sensing wipers

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The BMW X1 and X3 models have a lot in common, but the one big difference between these two vehicles may be the one factor that helps you to decide which car to buy. The BMW X1 has a youthful, sporty body style that gives it an edgier feel. The BMW X3, on the other hand, has a more classic luxury SUV body style.

Drivers looking for a refined and sophisticated car may go for the X3, while drivers looking for a sporty SUV may opt for the X1. And if you're looking for something even more powerful, compare the BMW X3 against the X5.

As you begin to shop for your next luxury SUV, be sure to review the buyer's guide for any models that interest you before you take a test drive. Complete your BMW X1 vs. X3 comparison and use Buyerlink to find the lowest local price quotes from reputable dealers in your area.