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Audi Q3 F3 vs BMW X3 G01

Audi Q3

Audi Q3

F3 · 2018 – 2025

The second-generation Q3 on the transverse MQB platform.

VS
BMW X3

BMW X3

G01 · 2017 – 2024

The third-generation X3 on the rear-drive CLAR platform.

First car
Second car

Verdict

Pick this one if…

Audi Q3

Pick the Q3 for maximum interior space, a bigger boot and modern technology.

Best engine: The 35 TFSI (petrol) or 35 TDI (diesel) — the sweet spot.
Read the full guide
Pick this one if…

BMW X3

Pick the X3 for sharp handling, a big boot and strong engines in a premium mid-size SUV.

Best engine: The xDrive20d (190 hp diesel) — the thrifty, torquey sweet spot.
Read the full guide

Performance

EA211 35 TFSI · Petrol vs B48 20i · Petrol

Audi Q3 BMW X3
Power
150 hp
184 hp Winner
Torque
250 Nm
290 Nm Winner
0–100 km/h
9,2 s
8,3 s Winner
Top speed
205 km/h
215 km/h Winner
Power-to-weight
101,7 hp/t
105,4 hp/t Winner
CO₂ emissions (WLTP)
143 g/km Winner
154 g/km
Consumption (WLTP)
5,7 L/100km Winner
6,8 L/100km

Dimensions & space

Audi Q3 BMW X3
Boot
530 L
550 L Winner
Boot (seats folded)
1.525 L
1.600 L Winner
Wheelbase
2,68 m
2,86 m Winner
Length
4,50 m
4,71 m
Ground clearance
17,0 cm
20,4 cm
Turning circle
11,8 m Winner
12,0 m
Towing capacity (braked)
2.000 kg
2.000 kg

Powertrain & tech

Audi Q3 BMW X3
Platform MQB A2 (transverse) CLAR (rear-wheel-drive base)
Drive Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive · All-wheel drive
Engine family EA211 evo 1.5 TFSI · EA888 2.0 TFSI · EA288 evo 2.0 TDI B48 petrol · B47 diesel · plug-in hybrid
Transmission S tronic (DSG) 8-speed automatic
Fuel Petrol Petrol
Euro standard Euro 6d-TEMP Euro 6d-TEMP
LEZ access Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation)

Reliability & watch-outs

Known issues

Audi Q3
  • Infotainment software (early cars)
  • S tronic maintenance (DQ200 models)
  • Cooling system needs checking
  • DPF on diesels
BMW X3
  • EGR cooler can leak on B47 diesels
  • Transfer case (xDrive) judder on early cars
  • Adaptive dampers need checking at high mileage

Pros

Audi Q3
  • Roomy interior & big boot
  • Modern tech (Virtual Cockpit)
  • Modular EA engines
BMW X3
  • Rear-drive base gives sharp handling
  • Big boot (550 l) & roomy rear seat
  • Strong, efficient B-series engines

Cons

Audi Q3
  • Early infotainment quirks
  • Pricier than the VW Tiguan on the same platform
BMW X3
  • Firm ride on M Sport suspension (run-flat)
  • Pricier than most rivals

For sale at dealers