2026 BMW X1 Vs. X3

2026 BMW X3 on road

2026 BMW X1

vs.

2026 BMW X3
2

Powertrain Options

2
Standard

xDrive All-Wheel Drive

Standard
312 hp

Maximum Horsepower

393 hp
5

Seating Capacity

5
57.2 cubic feet

Maximum Cargo Capacity

67.1 cubic feet
Standard

Wireless Device Charging

Standard

Choosing between the 2026 BMW X1 and the 2026 BMW X3 is a matter of deciding which level of versatility and performance best suits your lifestyle. Whether you are navigating the bustling streets of Myrtle Beach, taking a scenic drive down to Ocean Isle Beach, NC, or heading out for a weekend getaway in Holden Beach, NC, both of these Sports Activity Vehicles (SAVs) offer the luxury and precision engineering that define the BMW brand.

In this comparison, we look at the key differences in performance, interior space, and technology to help you make an informed decision.

2026 BMW X1 Vs. BMW X3: Performance

Performance is a cornerstone of the BMW lineup, and the BMW X1 and X3 are no exception. Regardless of which model you choose, you’ll enjoy heart-pounding acceleration and responsive handling on the roads of Ocean Isle Beach, NC. That said, drivers looking to add a touch of adrenaline to their morning commutes should consider the 2026 BMW X3 lineup. With a six-cylinder engine available on the sporty M50 xDrive trim, the BMW X3 delivers more overall horsepower than its smaller X1 counterpart.

Compare the 2026 BMW X3 vs. X1 engine options and specifications below for more details:

2026 BMW X1 Powertrain Options

  • 2.0L BMW TwinPower Turbo 4-Cylinder Engine: Capable of up to 241 hp
  • 2.0L BMW M TwinPower Turbo Inline 4-Cylinder Engine: Capable of up to 312 hp 

2026 BMW X3 Powertrain Options 

  • 2.0L BMW TwinPower Turbo 4-Cylinder Engine: Capable of up to 255 hp
  • 3.0L BMW M TwinPower Turbo 6-Cylinder Engine: Capable of up to 393 hp 

2026 BMW X3 Vs. X1: Seating & Cargo Space

Another significant difference between the BMW X1 and X3 is the amount of room you can expect inside the cabin. Although the 2026 BMW X1 lineup falls into the subcompact class, it offers passenger space and seating capacity similar to those of the compact X3. However, the BMW X3 is built on a longer wheelbase, allowing for more overall cargo space throughout the cabin. Explore each model’s interior dimensions in detail to determine which best suits your lifestyle:

2026 BMW X1 Interior Dimensions

  • Seating Capacity: 5
  • Headroom With Sunroof (Front/Rear): 40.5 inches / 38 inches
  • Elbow Width in xDrive28i (Front/Rear): 57.5 inches / 57.4 inches
  • Elbow Width in M35i xDrive (Front/Rear): 56.1 inches / 55.1 inches
  • Legroom (Front/Rear): 40.4 inches / 37 inches
  • Cargo Capacity (Seats Up/Folded): 25.7 cubic feet / 57.2 cubic feet

2026 BMW X3 Interior Dimensions

  • Seating Capacity: 5
  • Headroom With Sunroof (Front/Rear): 40.5 inches / 38.2 inches
  • Elbow Width (Front/Rear): 59.9 inches / 58.1 inches
  • Legroom (Front/Rear): 40.2 inches / 36.3 inches
  • Cargo Capacity (Seats Up/Folded): 31.5 cubic feet / 67.1 cubic feet

2026 BMW X1 Vs. BMW X3: Amenities

No matter which BMW SUV you prefer, you’ll find a wide variety of premium amenities designed to elevate your trips through Holden Beach, NC. Standard features on both models include:

  • Multi-color, adjustable ambient lighting
  • 2-zone automatic climate control
  • Perforated Veganza upholstery
  • Multi-stage heated front seats
  • BMW Curved Display
  • Cloud-based navigation system
  • Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
  • Wireless device charging
  • HiFi sound system

Find Your Next BMW SUV At BMW of Myrtle Beach

When you’re ready to continue your BMW X1 vs. X3 comparison from behind the wheel, reach out to BMW of Myrtle Beach. Our team will schedule an appointment at our Myrtle Beach dealership so you can explore each SUV firsthand. In the meantime, continue learning more about what the BMW X1 and X3 have to offer with the in-depth guides at our research center.

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