BMW X3
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VOLVO XC60
The new X3 is more refined, while the XC60 has a more composed feel.
BMW X3
Volvo XC60
BMW X3
Volvo XC60
Comparing the BMW X3 and Volvo XC60. The redesigned X3 features a more dynamic front grille and sharper headlight design. The body lines have also been changed to a more linear style, giving the car a powerful look. The M50 xDrive is an M Performance model, and is equipped with exclusive aero parts and large wheels, further enhancing its sporty impression.
On the other hand, the XC60 has an elegant appearance that embodies Scandinavian design, while the Volvo, with its Thor’s hammer-shaped LED headlights and smooth body lines, has a more urban feel.
Both cars have sophisticated designs, but how will they perform in the Japanese market? The XC60, with its calm and composed impression, may be more popular than the X3, with its somewhat aggressive design.
BMW X3 M50 xDrive
Body size = Length 4755mm x Width 1920mm x Height 1660mm
Wheelbase = 2865mm
Vehicle weight = 2000kg
Tire size = 255/45R20 (front) / 285/40R20 (rear)
Volvo XC60 Ultra T6 AWD plug-in hybrid
Body size = Length 4710mm x Width 1915mm x Height 1660mm
Wheelbase = 2865mm
Vehicle weight = 2180kg
Tire size = 255/40R21
The X3 boasts impressive power performance, while the XC60 is characterized by its ease of handling as a PHEV.
BMW X3
Volvo XC60
The X3 M50 xDrive is equipped with the same 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbo engine as the previous M40i, but the maximum torque has been increased by about 40Nm. In addition, the new model adds a 48V mild hybrid system with an 18PS/200Nm motor, raising the maximum system torque to 580Nm.
The combination of the high traction performance provided by the “xDrive” 4WD system with an electronically controlled differential and a dedicated sports suspension provides excellent stability and handling performance on winding roads and highways.
The Volvo XC60, on the other hand, is a plug-in hybrid car that combines a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder turbo engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission with front and rear motors. The front motor produces a maximum output of 70 PS and a maximum torque of 165 Nm, while the rear motor produces 145 PS and 309 Nm, allowing for a maximum EV range of 81 km on a full charge.
BMW X3 M50 xDrive
Engine type = Inline 6-cylinder gasoline turbo engine + motor
Displacement = 2997cc
Maximum output = 381PS/5500rpm
Maximum torque = 540Nm/1900-4800rpm
Transmission = 8-speed AT
Drive system = AWD
Volvo XC60 Ultra T6 AWD plug-in hybrid
Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo engine + motor
Displacement = 1968cc
Maximum output = 253PS/5500rpm
Maximum torque = 350Nm/2500-5000rpm
Transmission = 8-speed AT
Drive system = AWD
The new X3 M Performance model also offers significantly improved fuel economy.
BMW X3
Volvo XC60
The price of the plug-in hybrid XC60 is higher, but the price of the X3 has also been raised with a model change, so the price difference between the two cars is only about 200,000 yen.
The two cars are similarly priced and have similar body sizes, but their vehicle characteristics and personality are very different. The X3’s “M50 xDrive” is a clear sports model, overwhelmingly superior in terms of power performance and handling. However, the XC60’s “Ultra T6 AWD Plug-in Hybrid” also has sufficient power performance, and has the added benefit of being usable as an EV for short distances.
The average fuel economy in the WLTC mode is 11.9km/L for the X3, which is about 1.4km/L better than the previous M40i, compared to 14.3km/L for the XC60. Considering the power performance, it can be said that the fuel economy of the sports model M50 xDrive is not that bad.
