| 2025 BMW X3 | vs. | 2025 BMW X5 |
| 2.0L BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder engine | Standard Engine | 3.0L BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine with eBoost 48V mild hybrid technology |
| 255 hp | Standard Horsepower | 375 hp |
| xDrive (intelligent all-wheel drive) | Standard Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Available BMW M model | Optional Performance Upgrades | Available electrified and BMW M models |
| 4,850 pounds | Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,200 pounds |
| $49,500 | Starting MSRP | $65,700 |
From striking styles to impressive performance and versatility, BMW SUVs allow you to share a refined driving experience with friends and family. If you are considering a model from the lineup, you may be looking at SUVs, like the 2025 BMW X3 and the 2025 BMW X5. How do these models compare? In the following BMW X3 vs. BMW X5 guide, the team at Sandia BMW will discuss the differences in powertrain options and towing capabilities.
The rugged X3 delivers all-terrain performance, while the X5 offers several performance levels. That said, when looking at the 2025 BMW X3 vs. 2025 BMW X5 standard performance, the X5 provides more horsepower than the X3. However, the X3 has standard xDrive (intelligent all-wheel drive), while the X5 has rear-wheel drive as standard instead. In other words, the entry-level X3 configuration will have better handling on the roads of Rio Rancho.
Compare the standard performance specs for these models here:
2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive
2025 BMW X5 sDrive40i
If you want to upgrade, the BMW X3 lineup has 1 BMW M model that delivers up to 393 hp. As for the X5, there are more trim levels—some electrified and others BMW M models.
With the 2025 BMW X5 engine options being more powerful than those of the X3, it’s expected that the X5 can tow more than the X3. Still, the BMW X3 towing capacity is impressive and sufficient for outdoor adventures near Corrales. Discover the 2025 BMW X3 vs. 2025 BMW X5 maximum towing capacity below:
While the new BMW X5 offers a variety of performance and overall more power, the BMW X3 is an excellent option for drivers who do not need additional power. Whether you are from Placitas or Albuquerque, visit our showroom sometime and tour the interiors of the X3 and X5. We look forward to seeing you soon.
If you’re wondering if you should pay more for your next vehicle in Rio Rancho, then consider the performance level you need or want. While both SUVs produce impressive specs on the road, the BMW X5 offers a higher level of specs on every configuration and also includes both gas-powered and plug-in hybrid options. On the other hand, the BMW X3 has plenty of power for everyday drives, and you can still upgrade to either the M40i or M trim for even more power
Compare the X3 vs. X5 engine specs here:
2024 BMW X3 Engine Options
2024 BMW X5 Engine Options
Another factor to think about when researching for your next BMW SUV is the interior capacity. Both models have a standard seating of five occupants, so you can head out in Placitas with some friends or your family in either the X3 or X5. However, if you have a growing family, only the X5 has a third-row seating option that’ll bump up the capacity to seven. It’s also important to note that the X5 has slightly more cargo space, but the X3’s cargo area is plenty generous to begin with. Here are the 2024 X3 vs. X5 interior dimensions:
2024 BMW X3 Dimensions
2024 BMW X5 Dimensions
