Audi Q3 vs. BMW X3
Audi Q3 vs. BMW X3: Price
The all-new 2026 Q3 has a simplified model lineup, with only a single trim along with a variety of available option packages, giving shoppers an easy, streamlined shopping experience. Here’s its starting MSRP:
- 2026 Audi Q3 TFSI® quattro S tronic®: $43,700
On the other hand, the X3 lineup has two available models, with the main difference between the two being their powertrains:
- 2026 BMW X3 30 xDrive: $51,300
- 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive: $66,500
Comparing their base models, the X3 starts out at over $7k more expensive before adding any option packages. So, does the BMW do enough to justify its heftier price tag?
Audi Q3 vs. BMW X3: Performance
The Q3 was recently updated for the 2026 model year, and it’s now available with a more powerful 2.0-liter engine that cranks out 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. It Also comes standard with quattro® all-wheel drive and a 7-speed automatic transmission, and this setup allows it to do a 0 to 60 run in just 5.5 seconds.
Meanwhile, the X3 30 also comes with a 2.0-liter engine that creates 255 horsepower and comes standard with xDrive all-wheel drive. However, despite having more torque (295 pound-feet), it’s significantly slower than the Q3 with a 0 to 60 time of 6.0 seconds.
The BMW lineup also offers a more powerful X3 M50 with a six-cylinder engine that puts out a combined 393 horsepower, giving it an impressive 0 to 60 time of 4.4 seconds. However, shoppers will pay significantly more than they would for the Q3, and there are quite a few other attractive options at that price point.
Audi Q3 vs. BMW X3: Size
One of the biggest differences between the Q3 and X3 is their size. The Q3 is considered a subcompact SUV, while the X3 belongs to the larger compact SUV class, and this is evident in their exterior dimensions, with the 2026 X3 measuring roughly 187 inches long, while the Q3 is about 10 inches shorter.
As one would expect, this difference in size translates to a difference in interior space. Both have two rows of seating with room for five to fit comfortably, but the X3 has up to 67.1 cubic feet of storage space, while the Q3 maxes out at 50.0 cubic feet behind the first row.
Worried that the Q3 is too small for your next family road trip? Fret not, shoppers looking for an Audi model that’s closer in size to the X3 should check out the Audi Q5.
Audi Q3 vs. BMW X3: Interior
The Q3 comes with an 11.9-inch instrument cluster and 12.8-inch MMI touch screen display, both of which run Android Automotive OS for seamless connectivity. The Audi virtual cockpit, AI-assisted voice assistant, wireless phone charger, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are all standard, and the SONOS sound system and head-up display are available as upgrades.
The X3 gets a 12.3-inch information display and 14.9-inch center touch screen. The system runs BMW’s iDrive 9 system and includes BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™, and it also has an available head-up display.
Both have an advanced infotainment setup, which comes standard across all models.
Test Drive the New Audi Q3 in Kansas City
Are you interested in checking out the Q3 for yourself? Visit Audi Kansas City, where we have a top-notch selection of new and pre-owned models, as well as Audi lease deals so you can drive the car of your dreams without breaking the bank.
Contact us online or call us at 816-572-6985 to schedule an appointment today.