2021 BMW X1 vs. 2021 BMW X3

The 2021 BMW X3 starts at almost $8,000 more than the 2021 BMW X1, but since it also offers more standard features, more powerful engine options, and a little more cargo space, you just might decide that it’s worth the extra cost! Our comprehensive BMW X1 vs. X3 comparison covers everything you need to know before you dive into our inventory.

BMW X1 vs. X3: Features 

The interior of the BMW X3 is a little bit more luxurious than the interior of the X1. Compare the BMW X1 and X3 on the points that matter most:

• Both models offer Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™, BMW ConnectedDrive®, and Active Park Distance Control as standard.
• The X1 comes equipped with seven speakers, while the X3 comes equipped with twelve.
• The X1 comes standard with an 8.8-inch central touch display. The X3 offers a 10.25-inch central touch display.
• The X1 provides BMW Remote Services, including Remote Lock/Unlock. The X3 has these features too, but it also offers the Connected Package Plus with Concierge Services.

BMW X1 vs. X3: Fuel Economy

The X1 has a lower starting price, and it often has a lower cost-to-own. The X1 gets better fuel economy than the X3, even if you equip optional all-wheel drive:

• X1 Fuel Economy: 24 mpg city and 34 mpg highway (FWD) / 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway (AWD)
• X3 Fuel Economy (Base Engine): 25 mpg city and 29 mpg highway (FWD) / 23 mpg and 29 mpg highway (AWD)
• X3 Fuel Economy (M Engine): 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway (Standard AWD)

So, if you’re looking at gas-powered vehicles, the X1 always does a little better than the X3. However, only the BMW X3 offers a plug-in hybrid powertrain! This model gets up to 60 MPGe when gas and electric power are working together on the roads of Encinitas.

BMW X1 vs. X3: Engine Options

As you can see from the fuel economy breakdown, the X3 offers more engine options than the X1:

• The X1 is only offered with a 228-hp 2.0L BMW TwinPower Turbo i4. sDrive FWD is standard, but xDrive AWD is optional.
• The X3 is offered with a 248-hp 2.0L BMW TwinPower Turbo i4, a 382-hp BMW M TwinPower Turbo i6, and a plug-in hybrid powertrain that delivers a total of 288 hp.

With a towing capacity of 4,400 pounds, the BMW X3 is a little more capable when you need to move heavy cargo. However, the X1 can tow up to 3,700 pounds when properly equipped.

BMW X1 vs. X3: Interior Space & Luxuries

Although the X3 is the larger of the two models, these two Sport Activity Vehicles® actually have similar interior dimensions. 

BMW X1 Interior

• 40.4 inches of 1st-row legroom
• 37 inches of 2nd-row legroom
• 27.1 cubic feet of cargo space (rear seats upright)
• 58.7 cubic feet of cargo space (rear seats flat)

BMW X3 Interior 

• 40.3 inches of 1st-row legroom
• 36.4 inches of 2nd-row legroom
• 28.7 cubic feet of cargo space (rear seats upright)
• 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space (rear seats flat)

Although four extra cubic feet of cargo space can certainly come in handy, you really can’t lose either way! Drivers who want even more space can compare the BMW X3 vs. X5.

Compare BMW Models at BMW of San Diego

Whether you’re leaning toward the X1 or the X3, you can enjoy a better experience from start to finish when you compare BMW models and shop at BMW of San Diego! Start exploring our leasing specials and financing offers from your home in Chula Vista or El Cajon.