Whats The Difference Between The BMW X3 and X5?
What’s the Difference Between the BMW X3 and X5?
Thinking about getting a BMW SUV but not sure which one fits your lifestyle better? The BMW X3 and X5 are both great choices. They’re stylish, powerful, and full of smart features. But they’re also pretty different when you look closer. Whether you’re driving around Etobicoke or heading out of town for the weekend, it helps to know what each one brings to the table.
Size That Suits Your Life
The biggest difference between the X3 and X5 is their size. The X3 is a compact SUV. It’s easy to park and feels light on the road. Perfect for city driving. The X5 is larger and gives you more space inside. If you have a bigger family or need to carry more stuff, the X5 makes it easier. You’ll also notice the difference in rear legroom and cargo space when loading up for a road trip.
Power That Matches Your Pace
The 2025 X3 comes with a 2.0-litre turbo engine that delivers 255 horsepower. If you go for the M50 version, you get a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-6 with 393 horsepower. It’s quick and fun to drive, especially with standard xDrive all-wheel drive.
The X5 starts with more muscle. Its base 3.0-litre turbo engine offers 375 horsepower. Want more? The X5 M60i pushes out 523 horsepower. And if you want pure thrill, the M Competition version packs 617 horsepower. The X5 also comes with a plug-in hybrid option—the xDrive50e—which helps save on fuel while offering serious power.
Everyday Comfort and Space
Both the X3 and X5 seat up to five people. But the X5 has more room to stretch out. It offers more headroom and extra legroom in the back. Great for taller passengers or longer drives. You also get more cargo space with the X5—up to 72.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The X3 gives you 62.7, which is still impressive for a compact SUV.
Tech That Feels Effortless
In 2025, both the X3 and X5 got sleek tech upgrades. They now include a 14.9-inch touchscreen, which looks sharp and is easy to use. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. The X5 adds a HiFi sound system and a few more premium touches. If you care about sound quality and interior feel, the X5 steps up a bit more.
Safety Comes Standard
No matter which BMW you choose, safety comes built in. Both models include features like blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and front collision alerts. The 2024 X3 and 2025 X5 earned Top Safety Pick+ ratings, which is the highest score from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The 2025 X3 rating is still pending, but the previous results are a good sign.
Which One Offers Better Value?
If price matters most, the X3 is easier on the wallet. It starts around $49,500* in Canada. The higher M50 trim costs more but still offers good value. The X5 starts at $65,700* for the base model. It climbs higher depending on trim and engine. But for that extra cost, you’re getting more power, more space, and more luxury. The plug-in hybrid X5 also gives you better fuel savings in the long run.
Visit Us and Take Them for a Spin
Still deciding between the BMW X3 and X5? Come see both models at BMW Etobicoke. Our team will walk you through each feature and let you test drive both. Whether you’re cruising through the city or heading north for the weekend, we’ll help you find the BMW that’s just right for you.