BMW X3 vs Cupra Formentor
What's the difference?

BMW X3

$88,100 - $131,400

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Cupra Formentor

$49,990 - $94,990

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Land Rover Discovery Sport

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mercedes-Benz E53

Mercedes-Benz EQ-Class

Mercedes-Benz Eqb250

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz G63

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Mercedes-Benz GLA35

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Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Summary

2026 BMW X3

2026 Cupra Formentor

By Mark Oastler

By Jack Quick

Safety Rating

Engine Type

—

Fuel Type

—

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

—

Seating

—

Likes

M performance
Rear seat knee/headroom
Versatile family/driver’s car

Well-equipped
Massive range boost for PHEV
Fun and engaging to drive

Dislikes

No ANCAP
Prefers premium fuel
Rear seat shoulder room for three adults

Small boot in PHEV
Formentor S runs out of puff
Lots of tyre roar

2026 BMW X3 Summary

BMW has recently launched its fourth-generation (G45) X3 range, which comprises three petrol variants including the entry-level 20 xDrive, mid-grade 30e xDrive PHEV and top-shelf M50 xDrive.

The new trio brings revised powertrains, new exterior and interior styling, increased standard equipment, enhanced technology and an emphasis on the use of sustainable materials.

We recently trialled the five-seater flagship to see if it has the right mix of performance and practicality to maintain the X3’s enduring appeal for Aussie families.

View full pricing & specs

2026 Cupra Formentor Summary

We’ve waited more than two years and it’s finally here.

Cupra has introduced the updated version of its most popular car in Australia, the Formentor.

A spicy small SUV rival to the likes of the Mini Countryman, BMW X2 and Audi Q3, among others, this design-led small SUV is now offered in more flavours than ever before.

It’s our first time testing out this updated Formentor on local soil, so read on to see how it stacks up.

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Deep dive comparison

2026 BMW X3 2026 Cupra Formentor

Verdict

This is a highly competent all-rounder, given that it has the comfort and practicality for urban family duties yet with its revered M breeding can produce a level of performance which, in competent hands, could hold its own at a track day where its capabilities could be safely explored.

Verdict

It’s clear that Cupra has listened to feedback as this updated Formentor addresses many key criticisms of the pre-update car. Overall it makes it easier to live with and to recommend than before.

Although the VZe's updated PHEV powertrain offers double the amount of electric range, the V forms as a sweet spot of the line-up as it offers all the power and equipment you'd ever need. It's hard to look past the top-spec VZx though as power is a drug.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

BMW X3 vs Cupra Formentor What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

BMW X3 vs Cupra Formentor
What's the difference?