Toyota Fortuner vs BMW X3
What's the difference?

Toyota Fortuner

$49,755 - $70,888

2025 price

View pricing & specs

BMW X3

$88,100 - $131,400

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Land Rover Discovery Sport

Mercedes-Benz EQ-Class

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz G63

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Mini Countryman

Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi Pajero

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Renault Megane E-Tech

Renault Scenic E-Tech

Summary

2025 Toyota Fortuner

2026 BMW X3

By Marcus Craft

By Mark Oastler

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Diesel Turbo 4, 2.8L

—

Fuel Type

Diesel

—

Fuel Efficiency

7.6L/100km (combined)

—

Seating

—

Likes

Capable 4WD
Rugged build
Function over fashion

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

Dislikes

Feels old
Lacklustre performance
Driver-assist tech needs work

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

2025 Toyota Fortuner Summary

The Toyota Fortuner has been around since 2015 with very few significant changes in the years between then and now.

And that’s telling because the HiLux-based Fortuner has never managed to make the mark in its market segment that Toyota would so dearly like it to.

With a new Fortuner possibly due in the not-too-distant future – with Toyota’s mild-hybrid 48V V-Active system onboard perhaps? – it’s worth revisiting the seven-seat Fortuner to see how the current ageing 4WD wagon stands up against its fresher rivals.

Read on.

View full pricing & specs

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

2025 Toyota Fortuner 2026 BMW X3

Verdict

The Toyota Fortuner is a family friendly wagon and a very capable 4WD, but it’s looking and feeling decidedly old, especially when cross-shopped against the current highly competitive 4WD wagon market in which vehicles are increasingly stylish, sophisticated and packed with driver-assist tech (that isn't clunky) and standard features (that are extensive).

The Fortuner is practical and easy to live with as a daily driver, and in GXL spec it makes a lot of sense as a functional not flashy off-road tourer, but it’s far from the best family 4WD wagon around.

Until a next-generation Fortuner possibly arrives, there are plenty of Toyota fans who’d happily settle for a current Fortuner – if they haven’t already.

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.

Toyota Fortuner vs BMW X3 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Toyota Fortuner vs BMW X3
What's the difference?