Volvo XC40 vs BMW X3
What's the difference?

Volvo XC40

$36,990 - $55,990

2024 price

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BMW X3

$88,100 - $131,400

2026 price

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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 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

2024 Volvo XC40

2026 BMW X3

By Emily Agar

By Mark Oastler

Safety Rating

Electric motor type

Permanent Magnet

—

Vehicle type

Battery Electric

—

Electric range

485 km

—

Energy consumption

19.4 kWh/100km

Battery capacity

82.00 kWh

Seating

—

Likes

Cute kerb-side presence
Decent cabin space for class
Good driving range and energy consumption

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

Dislikes

Ride comfort isn't there on long journeys
Loud cabin at higher speeds
Interior trims don't match grade level

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

2024 Volvo XC40 Summary

The XC40 Recharge Twin Motor is the flagship model for the segment leading small electric SUV from Volvo.

Well positioned in terms of price, specifications and driving range, it continues to prove itself a fierce rival to the Mercedes-Benz EQA, Lexus UX and newcomer BMW iX1.

But does it bring its A-game to every attribute buyers in the small electric SUV segment demand? In this review, we put it to test to find out.

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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

2024 Volvo XC40 2026 BMW X3

Verdict

The Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Motor is a cute small electric SUV that offers a decent specs list and a sweet urban driving experience. It’s not the nicest ride on a longer journey but it does have a decent range to be able to tackle one, if needed. I didn’t love the interior design but there’s lots the XC40 gets right.

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.

Volvo XC40 vs BMW X3 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Volvo XC40 vs BMW X3
What's the difference?