Volvo XC60 vs BMW X3: Which Is Better for You?

The BMW X3 and Volvo XC60 make for a tricky comparison. Both are popular in the luxury SUV segment among families or solo drivers who want extra space without compromising on style. The XC60 leans on sleek design and top-notch build quality, and the X3 is unmistakably BMW, with a bold look and a tech-filled cabin.

Both have earned plenty of praise over the years. But which one is the better fit for you?

Quick comparison at a glance

Here’s an overview of the key features of the Volvo XC60 and BMW X3:

Next, we’ll explore the features in more detail.

Price comparison

A 2018 Volvo XC60 is available for around £20,000 and up. That is similar to the BMW X3, which ranges from £20,000 to £23,000, though most XC60 listings tend to be slightly newer models.

For new cars, the 2025 BMW X3 vs XC60 shows a price difference of around £3,000 at the entry level and up to about £4,000 at the top end. The new X3 ranges from £51,500 to £73,500. The 2025 Volvo XC60 is slightly cheaper, starting at £48,500 and reaching around £70,000.

The XC60 Core trim makes a confident impression with its simple grille and signature Thor’s hammer headlights. The BMW X3 entry-level trim features a larger, more upright grille and sharp headlights, which create a bolder, more dynamic personality.

There’s also a 2026 Volvo XC60 Plus Pro listed from around £58,500 and up.

Volvo XC60 vs. BMW X3: Size and dimensions

Volvo XC60:

• Length: 4,708 mm
• Width: 1,999 mm
• Height: 1,660 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,865 mm

BMW X3:

• Length: 4,708 mm
• Width: 1,891 mm
• Height: 1,676 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,864 mm

The Volvo XC60 is slightly wider and has a marginally longer wheelbase, and the X3 is a bit taller. The extra width in the XC60 gives rear passengers more shoulder room. Meanwhile, the X3’s greater height makes the cabin feel airier.

Engine options

The BMW X3 offers a broad engine range, with many models featuring 48‑volt mild-hybrid technology. Its base 2.0‑litre turbocharged petrol engine produces around 208 hp. The plug-in hybrid 30e xDrive combines a 2.0‑litre petrol engine with an electric motor delivering roughly 295 hp and an electric range of up to 56 miles. At the top end, the sporty M50 xDrive uses a 3.0-litre inline-six turbocharged engine, also with mild-hybrid support.

The Volvo XC60 offers a similarly flexible setup, with petrol and diesel engines available as mild-hybrids, all based around a 2.0-litre layout. The petrol line-up includes B5 and B6 variants producing 250 hp and 300 hp, respectively. The plug-in hybrid T6 Recharge combines a 2.0‑litre petrol engine with an electric motor for about 340 hp and up to 48 miles of electric-only driving. The more powerful T8 Recharge PHEV, featuring a supercharged and turbocharged petrol powertrain, boosts output to roughly 405 hp with all-wheel drive.

Performance

The X3 comes with BMW’s xDrive on most models, which distributes power between the wheels to maintain grip in varying conditions. The technology provides stability with a noticeably sporty feel on winding roads. The XC60 also features all-wheel drive, which helps the SUV stay solid over wet or uneven surfaces.

Overall, both vehicles’ powertrains deliver consistent output and strong torque. Their AWD capability makes it easier and more stable to tow light loads.

Interior

The BMW X3 has a clean, driver-focused style, with solid materials and supportive front seats that include good lumbar adjustment. The rear seat provides enough room for adults, and overall practicality is strong thanks to wide door openings and thoughtfully placed storage throughout the front and rear.

The Volvo XC60 leans towards a calmer style, with soft textures and exceptionally comfortable front seats that set a high bar for long-distance comfort. The rear seat feels airy and relaxed. Practicality is a strong point due to the deep cubbies, wide armrests, and smart use of space across the seats. A panoramic sunroof on higher trims creates a bright, airy, and open feel in the cabin.

Boot space

The X3 provides 570 litres of boot space, which expands to 1,600 litres with the rear seats folded. The load bay is wide and square, so it handles suitcases or weekly shops easily, and the low loading lip makes heavier items simpler to lift in.

The XC60 offers a smaller 468-litre boot, but it still feels spacious thanks to its deeper floor and broader opening. The XC60 also gives you a long, flat area once the seats go down.

Technology

The X3 features more modern and intuitive tech. Its infotainment system combines a responsive touchscreen with the familiar iDrive controller. Apple CarPlay comes as standard. You also get a solid list of standard features across the range, with higher-spec trims adding a premium sound system for a richer in-car experience.

The XC60 leans more towards a minimalist approach, with most functions controlled through its central touchscreen. It supports Apple CarPlay as well, and the digital driver display adds a clean, modern feel. Some menus can be a touch slower to react.

Safety and driver assistance

Volvo cars generally lean towards a more protective, comfort-forward setup, and the XC60 fits that pattern. Its systems focus on keeping the car stable and the driver relaxed, with adaptive cruise control, climate control, lane support, and more. The XC60 also uses clear alerts and gentle steering nudges to prevent lane departure, and the available 360-degree camera makes tight spaces less of an issue.

The BMW X3 gets a more driver-centric setup. Safety features still play a major role, but the feel is different. The X3’s cruise control and optional adaptive functions respond quickly, and lane-based aids tend to be firmer and more performance-oriented. Its cameras, sensors, and driver-assist features make drivers feel more confident at higher speeds and on winding roads.

Running costs and ownership

In this Volvo XC60 vs BMW X3 comparison, we look at fuel, insurance, servicing, and depreciation:

Fuel and energy efficiency

The XC60 delivers strong fuel economy across its line-up. The B4 diesel returns around 44 mpg, and the B5 petrol manages roughly 36 mpg. The Recharge plug-in hybrid versions add impressive fuel efficiency, with up to 48 miles on electric power alone and combined figures as impressive as 282 mpg.

The BMW X3 offers a similar balance of efficiency and performance: the diesel models achieve around 45 mpg, petrol variants about 35 mpg, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid can cover short distances (20-30 miles) purely on electric power.

Insurance

The Volvo XC60 models fall into insurance groups 25-44, with lower-output and plug-in hybrid versions cheaper to insure thanks to strong safety features. The BMW X3 ranges from groups 23-50, with higher-performance engines and top trims costing more, partly due to higher repair and parts costs despite good safety ratings.

Servicing

Both cars follow roughly 12,000-mile or annual service intervals. XC60 minor services cost around £250-£350, major ones £500-£700. The X3 is slightly pricier: minor £300-£400, major £600-£800.

Costs rise with higher mileage or extra work, and dealer servicing is pricier than independent garages.

Tax

The XC60’s petrol and diesel models emit 22-189 g/km CO2, so first-year rates range from low to mid hundreds of pounds. Plug-in hybrid Recharge versions sit at the lower end thanks to reduced emissions.

The X3 models have slightly wider variation, with CO2 emissions between 20-210 g/km, so first-year tax can be a bit higher for larger petrol or diesel engines. Plug-in hybrids also benefit from reduced VED.

Depreciation

Both cars maintain good resale appeal, especially well-specified models and plug-in hybrids, which remain in demand thanks to their efficiency and lower running costs.

How Carplus can help with financing the car you want

At Carplus, we make getting a car you love simple. We work closely with you to create a finance plan that meets your budget and lifestyle by spreading the cost into manageable monthly payments. Our goal is to remove barriers to car buying.

The BMW X3 and Volvo XC60 aren’t your only choices because we’ll help you drive off in any car you want. With flexible terms and competitive rates, find the right finance plan today!

Who is the Volvo XC60 for?

The XC60 suits families and commuters who prioritise comfort, safety, and a relaxed driving experience. It’s ideal for long motorway journeys or daily school runs where passengers need space and a calm cabin.

Who is the BMW X3 for?

The X3 is geared towards drivers who mix work and leisure. It’s a good fit for those who want a practical SUV that can double up as a weekend adventure vehicle while delivering a more spirited driving experience than typical family cars.

Verdict

In the BMW X3 vs Volvo XC60 debate, both deliver a genuine touch of luxury. The XC60 feels quietly elegant: calm, composed, and designed around comfort and Scandinavian simplicity. The X3, on the other hand, brings a sportier kind of luxury: sharper handling and a more driver-focused cabin.

Every journey in these SUVs gives a grounded, assured experience, so it’s hard to go wrong with either.