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BMW X3 vs Lexus RX: X3 is The Ultimate Choice

When performance, practicality, and long-term value are evaluated together, the BMW X3 stands clearly ahead.

Which Luxury SUV Delivers More?

If you’re comparing the 2026 BMW X3 and 2026 Lexus RX, you’re probably focused on a few key questions:

 

Which SUV is faster?

Which is more comfortable?

Which has more cargo space?

Which offers better fuel economy?

Which gives you more for your money?

 

Here’s a clear, side-by-side breakdown.

Performance: Which Is Faster?

2026 BMW X3 xDrive30

255 horsepower

295 lb-ft of torque

0–60 mph in 6.0 seconds

 

2026 Lexus RX 350 AWD

275 horsepower

317 lb-ft of torque

0–60 mph in 7.2 seconds

 

Even though the Lexus RX posts slightly higher peak numbers on paper, the BMW X3 is 1.2 seconds quicker to 60 mph.
In everyday driving, that translates to more confident merging, easier passing, and a more responsive feel when you ask for power.

 

Advantage: BMW X3

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Ride Comfort and Refinement

The 2026 BMW X3 has been further refined for improved ride quality and cabin insulation.

 

You get:

 

  • Smooth suspension tuning
  • Quiet cabin refinement
  • Balanced chassis control
  • Reduced road noise

 

The result? The X3 delivers elevated comfort without sacrificing performance precision.

It doesn’t force you to choose between sport and luxury — it gives you both.

 

Advantage: BMW X3

Fuel Economy: Which Is More Efficient?

BMW X3 xDrive30

27 MPG city

33 MPG highway

29 MPG combined

 

Lexus RX 350 AWD

21 MPG city

28 MPG highway

24 MPG combined

 

The BMW X3 offers up to 6 MPG better city fuel economy and 5 MPG better highway efficiency.

That means fewer stops at the pump and lower long-term fuel costs.

 

Advantage: BMW X3

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Cargo Space and Practicality

BMW X3

31.5 cubic feet (rear seats up)

67.1 cubic feet (rear seats folded)

 

Lexus RX

29.6 cubic feet (rear seats up)

46.2 cubic feet (rear seats folded)

 

With seats down, the BMW X3 provides over 20 additional cubic feet of cargo space.

For families, travel, and active lifestyles, that difference is dramatic.

 

Advantage: BMW X3

Standard Features and Value

The BMW X3 includes premium features that are limited or shortened on the Lexus RX:

 

BMW X3 advantages include:

  • 3 years / 36,000 miles of complimentary maintenance
  • 12-month SiriusXM trial (vs. 3 months in Lexus)
  • Sport Seats standard
  • Quick Select drive mode control
  • 13 available paint colors (vs. 8)
  • Available 20-inch wheels

 

BMW includes more — without requiring costly upgrades.

 

Advantage: BMW X3

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Ownership Benefits

BMW offers:

3 years / 36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance

Lexus provides only the first two service visits within 12 months.

 

That means BMW ownership is:

  • More predictable
  • More comprehensive
  • More valuable long term

 

Ownership Advantage: BMW

Starting Price Comparison

2026 BMW X3 xDrive30: $50,900

2026 Lexus RX 350 AWD: $52,775

 

The BMW X3 costs less upfront — while delivering faster acceleration, better fuel economy, and significantly more cargo space.

Final Verdict: BMW X3 vs Lexus RX

The 2026 BMW X3 does not compromise.

 

It delivers:

  • Faster acceleration
  • Better fuel efficiency
  • Substantially more cargo space
  • More standard features
  • Longer complimentary maintenance
  • Elevated ride comfort and refinement

 

When performance, practicality, and long-term value are evaluated together, the BMW X3 stands clearly ahead.

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