BMW X3 vs Mazda CX-5: Which SUV is Right for You?

When it comes to compact SUVs, two names often come up in conversation: BMW X3 and Mazda CX-5. These two vehicles cater to slightly different audiences, but both offer a compelling package in terms of design, performance, features, and value. Whether you're looking for a luxury compact SUV like the BMW X3 or a budget-friendly yet sporty SUV like the Mazda CX-5, this article will help you make the right choice.

I got the chance to drive both of these models recently and spent enough time behind the wheel to offer some real insights. Let’s break down everything about these SUVs so you can figure out which one fits your needs best. I’ll cover the pros and cons of each model, compare them head-to-head in categories like design, performance, technology, and practicality. We’ll also hear from Alex Collantes, a car enthusiast who has owned both vehicles and offers his take on these two SUVs.

Performance

BMW X3: Punchy Yet Refined

The BMW X3 has long been celebrated for its dynamic driving experience. BMW equips the X3 with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that produces 248 horsepower. There’s also a 3.0-liter inline-6 turbocharged engine that bumps power to 382 horsepower for the M40i trim. BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system comes standard, offering precise handling in all weather conditions.

Pros of the X3’s performance:

• Powerful engine options: You can go for the 2.0-liter engine if you prefer efficiency or the more powerful 3.0-liter engine if you crave speed.
• Balanced ride: The X3 offers one of the best blends of comfort and performance in its class.
• Smooth 8-speed automatic transmission: The transmission seamlessly shifts, ensuring an engaging drive without compromising comfort.

However, the X3 is not perfect. Alex Collantes, who drove the X3 for over a year, had this to say, "The BMW X3’s performance is undeniably impressive but I did notice that when you drive it in city traffic the transmission can feel jerky at low speeds. Plus the M40i model gets expensive quickly especially with add-ons."

Cons of the X3’s performance:

• Expensive upgrades: If you go for the higher-end models with the inline-6 engine or opt for extra features, the price tag skyrockets fast.
• Fuel efficiency isn't great: Though reasonable for its class, it’s not the most fuel-efficient vehicle, especially with the more powerful engine.

Mazda CX-5: Fun and Sporty at a Bargain

The Mazda CX-5 punches above its weight in terms of driving dynamics. The standard 2.5-liter inline-4 engine produces 187 horsepower. If that’s not enough, you can upgrade to the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that delivers 256 horsepower. Mazda’s handling dynamics are known for being sharp, and the CX-5 lives up to that reputation.

Pros of the CX-5’s performance:

• Impressive handling: The CX-5 is one of the best-handling compact SUVs on the market.
• Optional turbocharged engine: This adds a considerable boost in performance without costing a fortune.
• Excellent braking system: Provides strong stopping power for added confidence in emergency situations.

That being said, the CX-5 does have some limitations, particularly when compared to the X3. Alex mentions, "I really enjoyed how the CX-5 drove but the standard engine feels a bit sluggish especially if you have passengers or gear in the car."

Cons of the CX-5’s performance:

• Base engine lacks power: If you don’t opt for the turbocharged engine, the CX-5 can feel underpowered compared to rivals like the X3.
• Automatic transmission is not as refined: The transmission sometimes feels slow to respond, especially during hard acceleration.

Interior & Comfort

BMW X3: Spacious but Pricey

The interior of the BMW X3 screams luxury. From the high-quality materials to the refined design, the cabin feels upscale. The seats are comfortable and supportive, perfect for long drives. You’ll find 10-way power-adjustable seats with lumbar support standard, and an optional upgrade to heated and ventilated seats. There’s ample room for passengers in both the front and rear seats.

Interior pros of the BMW X3:

• Premium materials: The interior looks and feels high-end, with soft-touch surfaces and real wood or aluminum trim.
• Generous cargo space: With 28.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, the X3 is more spacious than many of its rivals.
• Quiet cabin: Road and wind noise are impressively low even at highway speeds.

But even with its luxurious features, the X3 does have a few shortcomings in the interior department.

Interior cons of the BMW X3:

• Expensive optional features: Many features that should be standard on a luxury SUV, like ventilated seats or a premium sound system, come at an additional cost.
• Infotainment system can be tricky: BMW’s iDrive system is powerful but has a bit of a learning curve. Some users find it complicated, especially when using voice commands.

Mazda CX-5: Stylish and Cozy

The Mazda CX-5 punches above its weight class again in the interior department. For a vehicle that’s far more affordable than the X3, the CX-5 offers a surprisingly upscale cabin. Mazda uses high-quality materials throughout the interior, and the design is sleek. The seats are comfortable, though not quite as plush as those in the X3.

Interior pros of the CX-5:

• Attractive design: The cabin has a minimalist yet upscale feel with plenty of soft-touch materials.
• Comfortable front seats: The CX-5’s seats are well-padded and provide good lumbar support.
• User-friendly infotainment system: The Mazda Connect system is easy to navigate and features a large 10.25-inch display.

That said, the CX-5 isn’t without its flaws when it comes to interior comfort.

Interior cons of the Mazda CX-5:

• Cramped rear seats: Taller passengers in the back might find legroom to be lacking compared to the X3.
• Limited cargo space: With only 30.9 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seats, the CX-5 offers less space than rivals.

Technology & Features

BMW X3: Packed with High-Tech Gadgets

When it comes to technology, the BMW X3 has a lot to offer. The iDrive 7.0 system powers the infotainment setup, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as standard. There’s also an optional 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and head-up display, which brings all your important driving information to eye level.

Technology pros of the BMW X3:

• Large high-definition displays: Both the infotainment and digital gauge cluster are sharp and responsive.
• Advanced safety features: The X3 includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring standard.
• Premium audio system: The available Harman Kardon surround sound system is a must for audiophiles.

Despite its tech-savvy setup, the X3 does have a few shortcomings in this category.

Technology cons of the BMW X3:

• Complicated iDrive system: While powerful, the iDrive system can feel a bit overwhelming to new users.
• Expensive add-ons: Many of the best tech features are part of expensive option packages.

Mazda CX-5: Simple but Effective

The Mazda CX-5 might not have all the bells and whistles of the X3, but it still offers a solid set of features. The infotainment system is straightforward, and the 10.25-inch display is responsive, though it’s not a touchscreen. Mazda also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard.

Technology pros of the Mazda CX-5:

• Intuitive interface: The infotainment system is easy to use with physical controls for common functions.
• Standard driver assistance features: Even on the base model, you get blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and rear cross-traffic alert.

However, the CX-5 falls short in terms of technological sophistication.

Technology cons of the Mazda CX-5:

• Limited advanced tech features: You won’t find a digital gauge cluster or head-up display like in the X3.
• No touchscreen: Some users might miss having a touchscreen interface for quicker inputs.

Fuel Efficiency & Price

BMW X3: Efficient but Expensive

The BMW X3 offers decent fuel efficiency for a luxury SUV, but it’s not a standout in its class. The 2.0-liter engine returns an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined (23 city/29 highway), while the M40i’s 3.0-liter engine drops to around 23 mpg combined. The X3’s starting price is $46,200, but fully loaded models can easily push past $60,000.

Fuel efficiency pros of the BMW X3:

• Good for its class: The X3’s fuel economy is on par with other luxury compact SUVs.
• Eco-friendly driving modes: The Eco Pro mode helps maximize fuel efficiency on long trips.

Fuel efficiency cons of the BMW X3:

• Expensive starting price: The X3 costs significantly more than the CX-5 and many other competitors.
• Fuel costs rise quickly: The more powerful engines burn through fuel at a higher rate.

Mazda CX-5: Affordable and Efficient

The Mazda CX-5 stands out for offering a balance between performance and fuel economy at an affordable price. The base engine returns 28 mpg combined (24 city/30 highway), and even the turbocharged model manages a respectable 24 mpg combined. The CX-5 starts at around $29,000, making it a great value in the compact SUV market.

Fuel efficiency pros of the Mazda CX-5:

• Impressive fuel economy: The CX-5 delivers solid fuel efficiency across its engine lineup.
• Affordable starting price: It’s much more budget-friendly compared to the X3, making it a great option for buyers on a budget.

Fuel efficiency cons of the Mazda CX-5:

• Turbo model sacrifices efficiency: While the turbo engine boosts power, it comes at the expense of fuel economy.
• Limited high-tech fuel-saving features: The CX-5 lacks advanced fuel-saving features like auto start/stop technology.

Final Thoughts

Both the BMW X3 and Mazda CX-5 are excellent compact SUVs, but they cater to different types of buyers. The BMW X3 is for those who want a luxury experience, powerful engines, and high-end tech features. However, it comes with a higher price tag and some costly upgrades. On the other hand, the Mazda CX-5 offers a sporty drive, affordable pricing, and a comfortable interior, but it lacks some of the refinement and high-end features of the X3.

Alex Collantes summarizes it best: "If you want luxury and don’t mind paying for it go for the BMW X3 but if you're looking for the most bang for your buck and still want a fun drive I’d go with the Mazda CX-5."