Performance SUVs dominate the luxury vehicle category. The BMW X3 and Alfa Romeo Stelvio excel in this group. Although these vehicles are similar in size and price, they differ in performance and features. The X3 is 185.9 inches long, 74.4 inches wide, and 66 inches high. The Stelvio measures 184.6 inches in length, 74.9 inches in width, and 66 inches in height. Prices begin at $49,500 for the X3 and $45,950 for the Stelvio. In this article, we take an in-depth look at both cars to help you decide which one fits your lifestyle.
Performance Prowess
Both the BMW X3 and the Alfa Romeo Stelvio are powerful vehicles. The X3's base model produces 248 horsepower with its 2.0-liter engine, while the Stelvio's entry-level option delivers 280 horsepower. If you're a thrill-seeker, the sportier BMW X3 M40i boasts a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six, cranking out 382 horsepower. The high-performance Stelvio Quadrifoglio features a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V-6, delivering an impressive 505 horsepower.
While the base xDrive 301 requires 6.2 seconds to accelerate from zero to 60 mph, the inline-four-powered Alfa Romeo completes the dash in 5.3-5.5 seconds. The BMW's 4,400-pound towing capacity is significantly higher than the Alfa Romeo's 3,000 pounds despite its more powerful engine options.
These statistics highlight two high-performance machines, each with its own distinctive style. The X3 shines with a combination of power and efficiency that's hard to beat. It effortlessly translates raw speed into a smooth driving experience.
Tech Showdown
Both the BMW X3 and Alfa Romeo Stelvio offer state-of-the-art technology features. If you're a tech lover, you'll find plenty to get excited about. The X3 boasts a large 10.3-inch touch screen, upgradeable to a 12.3-inch display, coupled with BMW's easy-to-use iDrive controller, allowing you to navigate menus and settings effortlessly.
Although the Alfa Romeo Stelvio's 8.8-inch touch screen seems outdated compared to the X3's base infotainment system, it includes a wireless phone charger as standard equipment. Both luxury vehicles provide Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. If you take your music wherever you go, you'll appreciate the Stelvio's optional 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system that provides exceptional sound quality.
Both vehicles offer several advanced safety features. The X3 SUV comes with pre-crash front seatbelts, active head restraints, and a PostCrash iBrake system. The Stelvio keeps pace with adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. For 2024, the X3 has received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick Plus rating, while the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives it a five-star overall safety rating. This confirms BMW's commitment to passenger safety.
Comfort and Space
These two luxury compact SUVs offer distinct interior experiences. While the X3 boasts a driver-focused layout with quality materials and expert craftsmanship, the Stelvio showcases a bolder interior, featuring leather seats and carbon fiber details. Although both cars provide an exciting driving experience, the X3 is roomier, with an extra 3.8 cubic feet of passenger space. This translates to more headroom, legroom, and storage space. The X3's back seats can also recline for added comfort.
The X3 excels in terms of cargo capacity, offering 28.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 62.7 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Alfa Romeo only provides 18.5 and 56.5 cubic feet, respectively. If you want a vehicle for everyday use, the BMW provides a smoother ride. It offers noise-canceling technology and a fine-tuned suspension. Extra features such as ventilated front seats and adjustable mood lighting with 11 color options increase its luxurious feel. Although the Stelvio offers a sportier style, taller passengers may be more comfortable in the X3, especially in the back.
Budget and Brand Cachet
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio and BMW X3 stand out in the luxury compact SUV segment. Even though the Stelvio's starting price of $45,950 is lower than the X3's $49,500, the BMW retains its value better over time. After five years, it loses 37% of its value, while the Stelvio loses 43%. This means you'll be able to sell your X3 for a higher price.
The BMW brand is well known, with over 360 US dealerships. Alfa Romeo is working to improve its ratings and grow its presence, with around 120 US dealerships.
Warranty packages from these manufacturers are competitive and comprehensive. BMW offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty with three years of free maintenance. Alfa Romeo provides a five-year/unlimited warranty and five years of road assistance. Alfa Romeo's maintenance costs are typically lower, with a set price of $573 for a five-year or 75,000-mile service. BMW service costs can change based on the car's condition.
The X Factor: The BMW X3's Appeal
The X3 is practical and powerful. It can tow up to 4,400 pounds, which is significantly more than the Alfa Romeo's 3,000-pound limit. The xDrive 30e shows off its off-road skills with a wading depth of approximately 20 inches. Its approach, departure, and breakover angles are equally impressive. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system with dynamic torque split provides excellent traction in diverse conditions.
BMW's Driving Experience Control feature allows you to adjust the vehicle's performance. You can add the Adaptive M Suspension for better handling, while standard LED headlights and fog lights provide excellent visibility when driving at night. It's no surprise that this vehicle ranks first among 28 options on the Best Luxury Small SUV list.
Experience the BMW X3 at Ciocca BMW
The BMW X3 offers refined performance and intuitive technology. If you're interested in this exceptional SUV, we invite you to visit Ciocca BMW of York, Pennsylvania, where our knowledgeable team will walk you through its features and capabilities. We provide a wide range of new and pre-owned options to suit various preferences, as well as financing plans tailored to your budget and needs. Our state-of-the-art service center will ensure that your vehicle stays in optimal condition. Visit us for a test drive. Reach out to us or browse our website for current offers.