BMW X3 vs BMW X4

The 2018 BMW X3 maintained a classic design approach, avoiding radical changes and instead opting for a timeless look. It featured signature BMW elements such as the four elliptical headlights, twin-kidney grille, and the Hofmeister Kink. The X3 was conservative yet stylish, with details like silver-painted accents on the bumper and sills, and a Dark Olive Metallic paint paired with Canberra Beige Vernasca leather. Inside, the X3 offered minimalist instrumentation and a driver-focused center stack, with multi-color LED ambient lighting adding a touch of elegance. The interior felt spacious and airy, thanks to the panoramic moonroof and large side glass, making it a comfortable space for occupants.

In contrast, the 2019 BMW X4 underwent a redesign that altered its profile, giving it a more pronounced sloping hunch similar to a Kia Stinger or Porsche Panamera. This change improved interior space and cargo room, making it more practical than its predecessor. The X4 was available in xDrive30i and M40i trims, with the xDrive30i offering standard features like 19-inch wheels, a panoramic moonroof, and power-folding heated side mirrors. Inside, it boasted a 10.25-inch iDrive touchscreen, leather seats, and a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel. The M40i trim added performance-oriented features like M Sport brakes and an adaptive M suspension, enhancing its sporty appeal.

The 2018 BMW X3 featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, delivering 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a ZF-designed 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts. The xDrive M40i variant offered a more powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, producing 355 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The X3's all-wheel-drive system ensured confident handling, while the Dynamic Handling Package added adaptive dampers and torque vectoring for improved performance. Despite its capabilities, the X3 prioritized comfort over sporty handling, making it a pleasant commuter vehicle.

The 2019 BMW X4's xDrive30i trim was equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, matching the X3's output of 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The M40i trim offered a 3.0-liter TwinPower turbocharged 6-cylinder engine, generating 355 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. Both trims featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The X4's M Sport suspension provided a balance of comfort and performance, with the M40i adding an adaptive M suspension for enhanced driving dynamics. The M40i's 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds highlighted its performance credentials, while the xDrive30i offered a more efficient and well-rounded driving experience.

The 2018 BMW X3 offered a spacious interior with generous head, leg, and shoulder room for all passengers. The rear seats could recline, and the cargo space measured 28.7 cubic feet, expanding to 62.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. The iDrive 6.0 system was user-friendly, featuring a touchscreen and logical control placement. The X3's interior was designed for comfort, with firm yet supportive seats and a focus on driving without distractions.

The 2019 BMW X4's redesign improved rear headroom and cargo space, offering 18.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50 cubic feet with them folded. The X4 made efficient use of its space, with compartments in the rear cargo area and a load floor that lifted with a support arm. The iDrive system was upgraded to a touchscreen, enhancing ease of use. The X4's interior was practical and comfortable, with a focus on maximizing available space.

The 2018 BMW X3 featured the latest iDrive interface with touchscreen capability, offering a 360-degree camera system and gesture control. The navigation system was fast and accurate, with a head-up display projecting detailed information. The X3 included in-car Wi-Fi, wireless device charging, and Apple CarPlay, enhancing connectivity and convenience.

The 2019 BMW X4 came standard with a 10.25-inch iDrive touchscreen, offering intuitive menu layouts. The Premium Package added a color head-up display and gesture control, allowing for easy volume and station changes. The X4 also featured wireless smartphone charging and Apple CarPlay, with the latest iOS update including Google Maps. The technology in the X4 was user-friendly and enhanced the driving experience.

The 2018 BMW X3 had not yet been rated by NHTSA or IIHS, but the 2017 model received high scores. Safety features included forward-collision alert, auto braking, and adaptive cruise control, available through option packages. The X3 also offered unique safety features like a pre-collision system that could shut the sunroof and windows, and automatic post-crash responses.

The 2019 BMW X4 included standard safety features like a reversing camera and parking sensors. The Driving Assistance Package added blind-spot monitoring and lane-departure warning, while the Driving Assistance Plus Package included forward-collision avoidance and active cruise control. The Parking Assistance Package offered a 360-degree camera and self-parking function, with a 3D camera system providing a novel safety feature.