2024 BMW X3 vs. 2024 Lexus RX 350 Vehicle Comparison
Compact luxury
The 2024 BMW X3 and the 2024 Lexus RX350 may come from different parts of the globe, but they're direct rivals for the attention of discerning shoppers in Tacoma, Seattle, and Bellevue looking for a premium compact SUV. But which one is best? Let's take a closer look.
Putting on the style
The BMW X3 strides onto the stage with an air of confidence. Its chiseled lines and athletic stance scream "performance." The signature kidney grille, flanked by piercing LED headlights, exudes the authority of a vehicle and brand sure of its prominent place in the market. The X3's silhouette is a harmonious blend of elegance and aggression, like a tuxedo-clad secret agent who's happy not to be not-so-secret at all.
The Lexus RX 350 enters with a serene grace. Its spindle grille, a signature Lexus feature, commands attention without shouting. The LED L-shaped daytime running lights add an otherworldly glow. The RX 350's curves flow, but the strikingly modern lights and front grille are somewhat at odds with the curvy sheet metal.
Performance matters
The 2024 Lexus RX 350 is the baby of the RX lineup, which is why it gets the smallest powerplant. Under the hood is a 2.5-liter turbo-four that produces a spirited 275 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque and comes mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is an option. Fuel economy is nothing to shout about at 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for front-drive models.
Although the entry-level BMW X3 comes with a 2.0 four-pot that develops 248 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque, the BMW's engine sends its power through its own eight-speed automatic transmission to the rear wheels. That makes it much more of a driver's car than the RX 350, and you can also upgrade to AWD or a bigger engine, such as the 382 horsepower 3.0-liter turbo-six that can get you from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. The alternative powerplant for the RX350 is a hybrid that doesn't have much more to offer than the standard powerplant apart from better fuel economy.
Features and equipment
Inside the X3, you'll find a cockpit straight out of a sci-fi movie. The iDrive infotainment system responds to your touch like a loyal AI companion. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a panoramic sunroof come standard. Safety features? The X3 has them in spades, from blind-spot monitoring to adaptive cruise control. The Lexus makes a good fight in a head-to-head comparison of features, but details matter. Although both SUVs get you standard heated and ventilated front seats, the X3 throws a standard panoramic sunroof into the mix. And although both models are awash with high-tech safety features, the X3 has more sensors for a better all-around picture of what's happening outside.
Conclusion
The 2024 Lexus RX 350 is an excellent luxury compact SUV, but the 2024 BMW X3 edges it out in many key areas. And while the interior of the Lexus is like one of those exclusive gentleman's clubs, the BMW goes for a considerably more contemporary and sporty take on the luxury theme. Oh, and the BMW also costs a little less than the Lexus for a better vehicle and badge. Check out why the X3 is so sensational with a test drive from BMW Northwest at 4011 20th Street East Tacoma, WA, or call us