With the introduction of the new 2015 BMW X4 as well (a somewhat lower, swoopier take on the X3), as well as the 3-Series GT, BMW now has several nearly like-sized models, each blending different amounts of performance and utility in a relatively compact footprint.
Among these the X3 is the most utility-minded, with the best height and versatility.
We'd call the smaller BMW X1 a rival, too, but it makes more obvious sacrifices in usability and interior space, all in the name of saving just a bit of parking space that to Americans wil be insignificant.
The Audi Q5's cabin wows, but a stiff ride upsets its pleasant demeanor.
The Benz GLK is a great choice for steering and ride, and for acceleration, but its cargo space is smaller than the X3's.
The Acura RDX was completely new this past year, and its new V-6 powertrain and more conventional design aims right at the luxury mainstream.
With a lower sticker price, the Volvo XC60 is rated tops for safety and has decent on-road handling, space, and fit and finish.
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 2015 BMW X3Browse Used Listings |  2015 Acura RDXBrowse Used Listings |  2015 Audi Q5Browse Used Listings |  2015 BMW X1Browse Used Listings |  2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK ClassBrowse Used Listings |  2015 Volvo XC60Browse Used Listings |
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| Quick Specs | |||||
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Among compact crossovers, the 2015 BMW X3 doesn't try to be rugged; instead it's one of the sportiest and most fuel-efficient in its class, and this year's new sDrive and diesel models add to that while the lineup gets even more tech and active-safety options. |
A sporty yet smooth driving feel, quiet interior, and top-tier safety all add up to a lot of appeal for the 2015 Acura RDX, although its lack of features and flair stop it short of greatness. |
The 2015 Audi Q5 remains one of the most elegant, truly car-like crossovers on the market. |
The 2015 BMW X1 runs a little short on versatility, but it's big on style and enthusiasm. |
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK offers two great engine options in a baby-SUV shell, but with the comfort and dynamics of a crossover. |
The 2015 Volvo XC60 crossover stays stylish--and now it gets much better gas mileage from a new four-cylinder engine. |
| MSRP From | |||||
| $38,500 | $35,095 | $39,300 | $31,200 | $37,900 | $35,750 |
| Gas Mileage | |||||
| 19 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 33 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | |||||
| Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 | Premium Unleaded V-6 | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 | Premium Unleaded V-6 | Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4 |
| EPA Class | |||||
| Small SUV 2WD | Small SUV 2WD | Small SUV 4WD | Large Cars | Small SUV 2WD | Small SUV 2WD |
| Style Name | |||||
| RWD 4-Door sDrive28i | FWD 4-Door | quattro 4-Door 2.0T Premium | RWD 4-Door sDrive28i | RWD 4-Door GLK 350 | FWD 4-Door T5 Drive-E |
| Drivetrain | |||||
| Rear Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | |||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | |||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | |||||
| Sports Activity Vehicle | Sport Utility | quattro Sport Utility | Sports Activity Vehicle | Sport Utility | Sport Utility |
| Transmission | |||||
| Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | |||||
| 2015 BMW X3 vs. 2015 Acura RDX | 2015 BMW X3 vs. 2015 Audi Q5 | 2015 BMW X3 vs. 2015 BMW X1 | 2015 BMW X3 vs. 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK Class | 2015 BMW X3 vs. 2015 Volvo XC60 | |
