BMW X3 vs. Volvo XC60: which is better?
These are two impressive SUVs – but which is the model for you?
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BMW X3 vs. Volvo XC60: which is better?
Premium SUVs are the bee’s knees right now in terms of what motorists fancy on the roads.
There are so many options to choose from, and each one is good at different things.
Take the BMW X3 and the Volvo XC60 – these are two luxe SUV options that would be perfect for an on-trend family or solo motorist who enjoys a lot of extra space.
While the XC60 prioritises high-quality build and sleek styling, the X3 is every bit the BMW with its aggressive look and attention to tech.
Both are impressive options that have had their fair share of praise over the years – but which of the two SUVs is best for you?
Styling
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There’s no denying that both the X3 and XC60 are real lookers, and they both have a similar appeal.
Based on that classic 'estate-on-stilts' SUV shape, the front of each car gets its own menacing chrome grille and squinting headlights.
These are chunky SUV models that lean away from the sporty look that models like the Porsche Cayenne showcase, and they keep to their rugged roots.
There are a few different trims that help you take styling to the next level.
The sporty XC60 R-Design adds 19-inch wheels and illuminated door handles, while the X3 M Sport also ramps up the sportiness with 19-inch alloys and a gloss-black trim.
The M40i X3 might be the flashiest-looking model among the lot, with extra-chunky 21-inch wheels, remodelled bumpers and a whole load of ‘M’ badges.
What are they like to drive?
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Both the Volvo and the BMW have some mild-hybrid tech, giving you a more efficient drive.
In the XC60, all engines get some form of electric assistance, and you can spot the mild hybrids as they’re marked with a ‘B’.
The four-wheel-drive petrol B5 model can achieve up to 35.7mpg, while the plug-in Recharge model can get up to 282.1mpg combined.
Mild-hybrid, all-wheel-drive models are standard across the whole X3 range, with the diesel option capable of up to 48.7mpg.
There’s a plug-in hybrid option too in the form of the xDrive30e, capable of up to 134.5mpg combined.
Both cars are a lot of fun on the roads, with the BMW really nailing it when it comes to handling.
It’s slightly sharper than the XC60, but that doesn’t mean the Volvo feels sluggish in comparison. You’ll enjoy driving regardless of which option you pick.
Interior and technology
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You won’t be disappointed in the interiors of these SUVs.
As standard, the X3 gets sports seats that are upgraded to electrically operated seats with memory function in the M40i and M40d.
There’s also a 12-inch driver’s display and digital dials, with lots of additional traditional buttons for easy navigation of the functions.
Plus, you get the coveted BMW iDrive software, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The XC90 offers a nine-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash and sits it up in portrait for an interesting twist. You’ll also get built-in Apple CarPlay, but Android Auto is not available as of November 2023.
There’s no denying the quality of each cabin, and they’re regularly compared as being pretty much on par with each other. It's also a bonus that the quality starts even in the entry-level models.
Boot space and practicality
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The BMW X3 gets a mammoth-sized 550-litre boot that can easily be extended to 1,600 litres if you fold the rear bench.
The backseat is formed of a 40:20:40 split so you can fold down seats to suit your luggage. It’s a truly impressive loading space, but can still be topped by the likes of the Land Rover Discovery Sport if you want even more room (689 litres, to be exact).
The Volvo XC60 isn’t quite as spacious in the rear, but it still offers plenty. You're looking at a 483-litre loading space, or 1,420 litres with the back seats down.
The XC60 Recharge has a slightly smaller boot but it's still roomy at 468 litres (1,395 litres with the seats folded).
Pair all this space with the comfortable cabins, and you have two practical SUVs for daily use.
Safety and reliability
The Volvo XC60 received a full five-star Euro NCAP safety rating after its test in 2017, scoring 98% for adult occupants and 87% for children.
The BMW X4 holds its own as well, also scoring five stars from Euro NCAP with 93% for adult occupants and 84% for children.
Safety tech in the X3 includes active cruise control, cross traffic alerts and lane departure assistance, depending on which packs you get. The XC60 offers kit like autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist and traffic sign recognition as standard in all models.
Both cars are reliable and built with safety in mind, but the Volvo does have a bit more finesse when it comes to the safety features available as standard.
Size and dimensions
BMW X3
Length: 4,708mm
Width: 1,891mm
Height: 1,676mm
Boot space: 550 litres
Volvo XC60
Length: 4,708mm
Width: 1,902mm
Height: 1,653mm
Boot space: 483 litres
Verdict: BMW X3 vs. Volvo XC60: which should you buy?
These are two brilliant SUVs that are both pretty perfect in their own way – you have to really get down to the details to pick the best option.
While the X3 is a gorgeous example of what BMW can do, it doesn’t quite offer the same safety and reliability that the XC60 does. It’s still a safe and dependable model, but some would argue that the Volvo takes the edge.
The X3 does, however, have a chunkier boot and a really sophisticated cabin. You’ll be able to pack both SUV contenders up with passengers and luggage and be comfortable, but the large X3 boot goes unbeaten.
You’ll likely have to make this decision based on which features are more important to you, and which aesthetic is more appealing overall.