2018 BMW X3 Review: Is the X1 a Better Buy? — Cars.com

The redesigned 2018 BMW X3's most compelling competition might come from BMW itself in the X1 subcompact SUV, which isn't so sub-sized.

[golfbuddy]

Exterior, I think I prefer the X1, but the X3 interior looks much more premium.

[chonaV]

The harsh ride is what made me give up my X1. So yes, the more luxurious and comfortable ride, plus more trunk space are enough for me to consider the X3.

[dskurth]

Driven both ....x3 hands down and a whole lot more standard features than the x1

[champeight]

Great review and comparison to the practicality of the X1. Hard to beat the price point and complete package of the X1.

[genepatrick]

The front grill is a bit big, passenger seat looks cramped, but I like it.

[igeekone]

X3 RWD platform is the reason to get a BMW SUV.

[tanaytandon]

What colour is that? (on the exterior)

[rainmouse]

X1 should ride better. I have a 2013 x1 just bought it used, the older ones have more power and are based on RWD even in awd. Almost a 50/50 weight distribution too and can add more power with just a pissgyback plug in tune. Great little suv thing. Almost don't miss my 2015 Civic Si

[GuuiYae]

I would go for X3 for sure. Only $8000 plus, I can have a bigger car, more technology, and options, plus display key available from X3 up, and X1 transmission stick looks cheap. Not to mention 360 degree camera doesn't available on X1.

[tetellejenny]

Merci pour les sous titres en français

[zhaoguanyugary]

The rear wheel drive platform will forever> front wheel drive platform

[GEOMETRICINK]

My new X1 is being delivered in two days! I am soooo excited!

[ridaalosman]

The X3 scores better in cargo space and towing capacity. Also, its exterior dimensions are just perfect - at least to me. I am willing to pay the additional 8000 or so and get a sporty SUV rather than a rebadged front wheel drive Mini Cooper!

[DonLee]

People who buy a dadmobile are looking for roominess, price, and looks. If they cared about driving dynamics, they'd get an estate car. So if I were to get a small BMW SUV, I'd get the X1, cuz it has just as much room, if not more than the X3 at a fraction of the price.

[joshs]

The differences between an X1 and an X3 are noticeable but whether or not it's worth the $10, 000 premium is something to reconsider. I had a 2022 BMW X1 for $55, 000 and pulled out of it for a 2021 X3 30i for $63, 000. The interior finishes in the X3 are much nicer in my opinion, X3 comes with more premium add-ons, and the handling does feel more like a traditional SUV than the X1. However that being said, the X1 also offers close to the exact same interior space minus trunk space and shoulder width, and actually boasts more leg room than it's more expensive bigger brother the X3. You'd necessarily be spending less money on fuel with the X1, and holding onto 10-15 grand in your pocket for a rainy day if opting for the X1 instead of the X3.

The X3 is certainly a better model there's no question, but to anyone on a budget or who doesn't have a growing family yet, the X1 is much... much more practical. Take it from me, I'm in my mid 20's, and I know deep down I probably should have kept the X1, I also think the X1 suits the younger crowd better whereas I see a lot of moms and old dads driving my exact X3 on the road

[NONARCS]

Stupid premise. With exception of cargo space you mention no statistics to back up your point don't show the X1 for more than a few seconds don't mention the more sophisticated four-wheel drive and handling of a rear drive chassis as for the quietness and luxury PX3 it's quite poor well that a tremendous amount of money invested but the X1 very far off and not really saving you that much money basically why not just recommend if someone buy a Volkswagen Passat or Jetta

[k.rahulkumar]

X3 is a great car. It's upto you which variant you are looking for. I will surely go for the 3 Lt diesel engine option instead of 2 lt engine. When you are paying some extra money for more fun you should choose a car like that much of power & not the 190 bhp 2 lt diesel engine which is used in X1. Now decision is yours. Choose any one.

[alfredchang]

Driven both back to back at the dealership – X3 wins, hands down.

[Funkoattic]

What!? The X3 vs X1 the X3 is a lot bigger. I just picked up a 2018 X3 and compared to X1 size isnt even close. Also, drove the X5 and (as another viewer said) did not feel as big of a size difference. That is the better

[georgegarner]

I’ll take the x3 BMW cheapened the x1 with the front wheel drive nonsense BMW has forgotten they are supposed to be making luxury vehicles with all the things they are doing like fake leather etc just to name a few