Kia Niro vs BMW X3
What's the difference?

Kia Niro

$24,990 - $42,888

2023 price

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BMW X3

$88,100 - $131,400

2026 price

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Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mini 3D Hatch

Mini Countryman

Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Polestar 2 Long Range

Polestar 2 Standard Range

Summary

2023 Kia Niro

2026 BMW X3

By Emily Agar

By Mark Oastler

Safety Rating

Electric motor type

Permanent Magnet

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Vehicle type

Battery Electric

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Electric range

455 km

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Energy consumption

16.2 kWh/100km

Battery capacity

64.00 kWh

Seating

—

Likes

Decent driving range
Pleasant interior design
Easy-to-use tech

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

Dislikes

Rougher ride
Doughy acceleration from a full stop
Expensive compared to rivals

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

2023 Kia Niro Summary

Kia has released the newly updated Niro, which is the smaller and less sporty sibling to Kia’s popular, EV6. As far as EVs go, it has a decent driving range and specs that should entice first-time electric vehicle owners to dip their toes into the EV pool.

However, the updated model does come with a price hike… which might not excite a budget-conscious buyer, especially with such affordable competitors like the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric also available.

I’ve been hanging in it for a week with my family of three to see how it handles!

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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.

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Deep dive comparison

2023 Kia Niro 2026 BMW X3

Verdict

The Kia Niro S Electric is a solid little SUV that has decent space inside and some nice specs, but it's more expensive than its nearest rivals. The EV powertrain can take a little getting used to and I would have liked a smoother ride, but the 460km driving range is good.

For first-time EV owners, this wouldn’t be a bad option if you wanted to dip your toes in the water but it will suit urban dwellers and smaller families, like mine, best. This gets a 7.5/10 from me.

My son wasn’t in love with this one. Not enough buttons for him to press and he did comment on how bumpy the ride was in the back. He gives it a 6.0/10.

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.

Kia Niro vs BMW X3 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Kia Niro vs BMW X3
What's the difference?