BMW X3 vs Polestar 2
What's the difference?

BMW X3

$88,100 - $131,400

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Polestar 2

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2026 price

View pricing & specs

Land Rover Discovery Sport

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

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Mercedes-Benz E53

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Mercedes-Benz Eqb250

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Summary

2026 BMW X3

2026 Polestar 2

By Mark Oastler

By Jack Quick

Safety Rating

Engine Type

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Electric motor type

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Fuel Type

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Vehicle type

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Fuel Efficiency

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Electric range

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Energy consumption

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Battery capacity

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Seating

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Likes

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

Fun and agile to drive
More efficient and quicker charging
Amazing (yet optional) Bowers & Wilkins sound system

Dislikes

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

Cabin space and storage still compromised
Options add up quick
No cover for panoramic glass roof

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 Polestar 2 Summary

The Polestar 2 was one of the first electric vehicles (EVs) in Australia to break through to the mainstream, however it has always been relegated to the Tesla Model 3’s shadow.

As a result Polestar is constantly playing catch up, releasing update after update for this premium-pushing electric liftback. The most notable was a major mid-life update in 2024.

Two years after this, Polestar has just rolled out the 2026 model year (MY26) update which introduces a range of subtle changes, largely under the surface.

It comes as Polestar is now introducing newer models, there’s mounting pressure from legacy carmakers who are only now catching up to EV tech, and Australians are moving away from buying passenger cars to SUVs.

Has this latest update improved the appeal? Read on to find out.

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Deep dive comparison

2026 BMW X3 2026 Polestar 2

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

This latest update for the Polestar 2 is lovely, but driving the original is a reminder of how solid this car has always been if you overlook the inherent impracticalities of being an EV on a combustion-engine platform.

The fact you still get steady flow of over-the-air software updates bringing new features, plus you can now upgrade to the new Qualcomm processor chip, saving some coin and getting a second-hand model that’s a couple of years old isn’t a bad option at all.

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

BMW X3 vs Polestar 2 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

BMW X3 vs Polestar 2
What's the difference?