Suzuki Vitara vs BMW X3
What's the difference?

Suzuki Vitara

$35,990 - $44,990

2026 price

View pricing & specs

BMW X3

$88,100 - $131,400

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Chery Tiggo 8 PRO MAX

Land Rover Discovery Sport

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Mini Countryman

Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi Pajero

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Summary

2026 Suzuki Vitara

2026 BMW X3

By Byron Mathioudakis

By Mark Oastler

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 1.4L

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Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded/Electric

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Fuel Efficiency

5.8L/100km (combined)

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Seating

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Likes

Old-fashioned charm
Performance/economy balance
Practical packaging

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

Dislikes

Ancient dashboard
High prices
Premium unleaded petrol preference

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

2026 Suzuki Vitara Summary

Now that the original Mitsubishi ASX is finally gone, the oldest small SUVs still on sale in Australia today are the Mazda CX-3 and Suzuki Vitara.

Both released in 2015, their longevity is due to a combination of good design, strong engineering, sound driving dynamics and an undefinable charm.

Given their high number of rotations around the sun, it’s also surprising that neither has received a major facelift in all this time. Clearly, their creators got it largely right early on.

Until now. The Vitara steps up with the Series III makeover, ushering in a fresh nose, larger central touchscreen and a hybrid tech upgrade for the (now-sole) turbo powertrain, among other more-minor changes.

Are these enough to keep the venerable Vitara from vulnerability?

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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.

View full pricing & specs

Deep dive comparison

2026 Suzuki Vitara 2026 BMW X3

Verdict

In car years, 11 is ancient.

Back when it was first released, this-generation Vitara’s competitive pricing, progressive yet pretty design, pleasant interior packaging, sporty dynamics and general driving ease helped establish the emerging small SUV segment into the powerhouse it is today.

In some ways, today’s Turbo Hybrid still impresses, especially with its punchy performance, promising economy and no-nonsense packaging. Objectively, it is still a decent proposition, with few actual vices.

But the 2026 Vitara’s high pricing, embarrassingly outdated interior, underwhelming specification and noisy ride leave it feeling too expensive, too old and too exposed against newer and more-sophisticated rivals.

Even the brightest stars eventually need to retire.

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

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.

Suzuki Vitara vs BMW X3 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Suzuki Vitara vs BMW X3
What's the difference?