BMW X2 vs BMW X3: Which One Should You Choose?

When looking for a premium compact SUV BMW is a top choice that offers a range of models designed to meet various needs. Two standout options are the BMW X2 and the BMW X3. Both vehicles offer luxury performance and BMW's signature driving dynamics but they cater to slightly different audiences.

If you're trying to decide between the BMW X2 and BMW X3 you're in the right place. In this comparison we'll break down all the details you need to know. We'll examine their differences in performance features pricing and help you determine which one might be the better choice for your lifestyle. Along the way we'll highlight their potential drawbacks while still keeping the overall tone helpful and practical. We've even brought in the opinion of Alex Collantes who has driven both vehicles and shares valuable insights.

Performance Comparison

Powertrain and Engine Options

When it comes to performance both the X2 and X3 offer that classic BMW driving experience but their powertrains are where they start to diverge.

BMW X2 Engine Options

The BMW X2 is the sportier more compact sibling in this matchup. The X2 offers two main engine choices:

• sDrive28i and xDrive28i: Both feature a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
• M35i: For those craving more power the X2 M35i packs a punch with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 301 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. This model is significantly faster with a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds.

BMW X3 Engine Options

The BMW X3 offers a wider range of engines that cater to a variety of performance needs:

• sDrive30i and xDrive30i: Like the X2 the base X3 models come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine generating 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It's slightly more powerful than the X2 but the difference is subtle in daily driving.
• M40i: The X3 M40i comes with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine that delivers 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. This engine makes the X3 feel much faster than the X2 with a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds.
• X3 M: For the performance enthusiast the X3 M takes things up a notch with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine producing up to 503 horsepower.

Handling and Driving Dynamics

BMW X2 Handling

The X2 is often described as the sportier more agile option of the two. It has a lower center of gravity which makes it feel more like a hatchback than a typical SUV. The steering is sharp and the X2 delivers a fun-to-drive experience especially around city streets and winding roads.

Alex Collantes notes "The X2 is nimble and quick on its feet. It’s not your typical SUV and it almost feels like a sports car with the added practicality of a crossover."

BMW X3 Handling

The X3 on the other hand offers a smoother more composed ride. It has a higher ride height and more traditional SUV proportions. While it’s not as nimble as the X2 it feels more planted on the highway and offers better comfort for long-distance cruising.

“The X3 is a great all-rounder” says Collantes. “It’s more refined than the X2 and offers a better balance between comfort and performance.”

Fuel Economy

If fuel efficiency is a priority for you the BMW X2 might edge out the X3 in this area.

• BMW X2: The X2 sDrive28i gets an EPA-estimated 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway while the xDrive28i gets slightly lower at 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The M35i version drops to 23 mpg combined.
• BMW X3: The X3 sDrive30i gets 25 mpg city and 29 mpg highway while the xDrive30i achieves 24 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. The more powerful M40i gets 23 mpg combined which is impressive given its performance.

Key takeaway:

If you're looking for a balance between sporty driving dynamics and fuel efficiency the X2 might be the better choice but if you prioritize comfort and need more power especially for highway driving the X3 stands out.

Interior and Space

Interior Design

BMW X2 Interior

The X2 has a more driver-focused design with sporty touches throughout. The seating position is lower than in the X3 which adds to the sporty feel but it might feel a bit cramped for taller drivers or passengers.

While the interior quality is solid and what you’d expect from BMW it’s not as luxurious or spacious as the X3. The rear seats in particular are a bit tight making the X2 better suited for smaller families or those who don't often need the extra space.

BMW X3 Interior

The X3 offers a more luxurious and spacious interior. The materials feel more premium and the cabin is more open. There’s plenty of legroom in the rear seats making it a better option for families or those who frequently have backseat passengers. The X3 also has a higher driving position giving you a better view of the road.

Cargo Space

One of the biggest differences between the two models is cargo space. If you need more room for luggage groceries or gear the X3 is the clear winner.

• BMW X2: The X2 offers 21.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 50.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. It's adequate but far from spacious especially compared to the X3.
• BMW X3: The X3 offers a significantly larger 28.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 62.7 cubic feet with them folded down. If cargo space is a priority the X3 is the better choice.

Technology and Features

Infotainment System

Both the X2 and X3 come with BMW’s iDrive 7.0 infotainment system which is widely regarded as one of the best in the industry. The interface is intuitive and it supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

BMW X2 Tech Features

The X2 comes with a standard 8.8-inch display which is responsive and easy to use. It also includes features like navigation a Wi-Fi hotspot and optional upgrades like a head-up display and premium Harman Kardon sound system.

BMW X3 Tech Features

The X3 ups the ante with a standard 10.25-inch display and an optional 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. It offers more advanced driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control lane-keeping assist and a parking assistant which are either optional or unavailable on the X2.

Pricing and Value

BMW X2 Pricing

The BMW X2 has a lower starting price making it more accessible to a broader audience:

• sDrive28i: Starting at $39,200
• xDrive28i: Starting at $41,200
• M35i: Starting at $50,600

BMW X3 Pricing

The X3 is more expensive but also offers more features space and power:

• sDrive30i: Starting at $46,200
• xDrive30i: Starting at $48,200
• M40i: Starting at $63,000
• X3 M: Starting at $76,900

If you’re on a tighter budget the X2 offers a lot of value but if you can stretch your budget the X3 provides a more well-rounded package.

Safety Features

Both the X2 and X3 come with a variety of safety features but there are some differences in standard versus optional equipment.

Standard Safety Features

• BMW X2: Includes automatic emergency braking forward collision warning and lane departure warning. Optional features include adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring.
• BMW X3: Comes with the same standard safety features but also offers more advanced driver assistance technologies like a surround-view camera and adaptive headlights which are only available as options on the X2.

Drawbacks to Consider

BMW X2 Drawbacks

• Cramped interior: The X2’s interior while stylish is tight especially in the rear seats and cargo space.
• Less powerful options: While the X2 M35i offers good power the lower-end models might feel underpowered compared to the competition.

BMW X3 Drawbacks

• Higher price: The X3 is significantly more expensive than the X2 especially in higher trims.
• Bigger size: While it offers more space the X3 can feel bulky in tight city environments or parking spaces.

Verdict: Which BMW is Right for You?

When deciding between the BMW X2 and BMW X3 it really comes down to your personal needs and preferences.

• If you're looking for a sporty fun-to-drive crossover with a more compact footprint and don’t need a lot of space the BMW X2 is a great choice.
• On the other hand if you value comfort more space and a wider range of features especially for long drives or family use the BMW X3 is the better option.

As Alex Collantes puts it “Both are fantastic vehicles but they serve different purposes. If you want something that feels more like a hot hatchback go for the X2. If you need more room and features but still want that BMW performance the X3 is the way to go.”

In the end there's no wrong answer. Both the BMW X2 and BMW X3 are excellent choices in their own right. It all depends on what matters most to you.

Make sure to test drive both models to see which one fits your driving style and needs best.