GREAT Comparison! We were in the middle of which to select... We selected the XDrive 3 with Drive Dynamics. You are the man when it comes to comparisons. EXCELLENT! Thanks. I've been roaming looking for Drive Dynamics vs non drive dynamics on an X3 (non 40)but this was helpful for X3 vs X5
Thanks for the great comparison. I too was recently faced with the same decision and went with the 2020 X5 xDrive40i M Sport (20 inch all season run flats). After extended driving in both, I felt that the X5 had a very taut, yet supple, and a more sophisticated suspension. Very smooth and buttery. It was also quieter, and the vehicle as a whole had a more solid feel. Even the materials inside felt just that much better for some reason. Yes, the X3 M40i barked, popped, crackled, banged, and burbled, but in my opinion, was only slightly faster and a little more exciting to drive. Surprisingly, the steering in the X3 felt a little twitchy and demonstrated what felt like slight torque steer at wide open throttle from a dig. This was maybe due to the tire pressures, but I drove them back to back to back and noticed that I had to hold the steering a little tighter in the X3 when I floored them both from a dig. For context, I traded out of a F82 M4CS, so I was used to a very sporty and firm ride. Maybe I just figured if I am going to get a SUV, just get the better ride quality and leave the super sportiness to a real/true sports car.
@@prabeeshsidhu For context I live in NYC, so average day to day, stop and go with some highways here and there 17 t0 18. On road trips going 80, I get 26. My Fuelly tracker says I’ve averaged 21 mpg over 6000 miles 65hwy/35city. You should get 20/21 average for city if you live in an area where traffic is not as dense as where I’m located. I got it with 50k on the clock and now it’s at 56k, the only thing I’ve noticed is a somewhat binding sensation from the rear differential in the mornings when it is cold and I make sharp right or left turns. It goes away once it’s warmed up. I had it checked at the dealership and they said it’s ok. It’s still on the CPO warranty until 2025, so I’m not worried. Other than that I love it. Everything is as I described in my first post.
@RothBalloon you traded in your M4CS? No!!!! LOL. I traded in my beloved 2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro (I miss it a lot and hard to find) for a 2024 X3 M40i, for my wife and kept our F87 S55 M2C.
@@USMC_LAterZ 😂 Yes sadly. Every time I see one I break my neck. They are really beautiful cars. But I can always get another one, as they don’t seem to hold value at all. More than likely though, I may pick up a lightly used G80/82. So many great stuff to choose from nowadays.
nice comparison. i have the X3 m40i, absolutely love it! best car i ever owned. but once in while i wonder about the X5. i was dead set on the B58 tune in the X3, i didnt even test drive the X5. i do a lot of long distance driving with family, and at times cargo space is a tad small. this was a good comparison, loved it. not sure if i would give up my X3 for the X5. it fits like a perfect glove to me.
@@eddiemcarslad i made the right choice. i tested GLC 43 amg and Audi SQ5 before getting the X3. longest length of smiles and +ve emotions was when i was in the X3. test drove it about 3 times just to make sure. absolute love! new X5s have more power in the 40 trim. but i’m not sold on idrive 8 due to lack of physical buttons for climate control. which makes me wonder how u feel since u own a tesla now.
I was initially attracted to test the x5 45e because of (at the time) its qualifying $7,500 tax credit...but it became apparent very soon that for us, it was a "size too large" with a greater step in height and overall a bit larger overall...space we did not need. Very happy with our 2023 x3 M40i (coincidently also in Alpine White). Another consideration was wheel choice. We stuck with the o.e. 19" standard wheels that enabled both a smoother ride (higher sidewall that 20's or 21 optional wheels) allowed for ease of tire rotation due to same wheel width in the 19s. and saved some dollars as well.
I am an Audi and a BMW fan and you're absolutely right on Q5 and SQ5 not having enough space. The X3 offers much more usable space, not just in cargo but in door panels, glove compartments,, and still gives you same or better performance.
I have the 2022 X5 and love it. I'm sure the X3 m40i would be more fun with better performance but if you need the extra space, then the X5 gives you that with more luxury. You also have the option of getting a V8 in the X5 which is pretty amazing.
Very cool as there aren't that many good X3/X5 comparison videos. I still can't decide between the two. X5 is more luxurious, but at 5'9 its pain to get in. X3 is much more fun to drive and over all has perfect proportions. Fun fact: current X3 is the same size as the original E70 X5
Man I have the x3 30i lol but I love it and have driven a x5 loaner once and that was just like driving on clouds almost but if I had to choose I'd take a x3 m40 mainly for the extra power
These are both great vehicles (I suspect, I never considered the X3 due to size, as I had driven a three-row Mercedes GL for 10 years). I’m sure the X3, being smaller and lighter, is quicker and more fun to drive. That said, I bought an X5 40i in the Tanzanite Blue, with the M-Sport pro package and 22-inch black wheels, so the only chrome on the car are the badges on the rear. It’s a stunning look that I constantly receive compliments on. Just a great vehicle and a lot more fun than my old Mercedes (also a great vehicle, nearly trouble-free for 125k miles).
Would be interesting to compare to X5 xDrive50e that comes with 483hp and 4.6s vs 4.4s for X4 M40i. The air suspension supposedly is standard on 50e that might be both sporty and comfy.
@@islandknight6105 That does not seem accurate. More like ~ $11k in starting price but yeah you can go crazy on options. In any case, your point is well taken it's the next size up sort of speak.. Just also looking for bigger / sportier / easier on gas, if that exists besides Model Y
That's tough. Both are great options. The M50i is going to be comfortable and less aggressive than the X3M Comp. The X3M might fill that void you are missing from C63s
In real life, the “space” difference in rear seating is less than an inch. You only realize that extra 2-3” in the cargo area, and it isn’t all that noticeable. There’s a softer “feel” in the x5, and more body roll with inspired driving, but people waste too much time speaking about the “space” differences. The X5 is a little wider, a little taller, a little longer - emphasis on little. Both are great, but don’t make your decision based on cargo space, legroom, etc…
Well ypu went over a lot of helpful stuff here. Im in the boat of having to decide between a X3 M40i or a X5 M40i myself at the moment. Twst drove the X3M and rode in a Friend's X5M. Couldn't believe how Harsh the ride was in comparison. Those 22" wheels on 30 series tires sure dont help. Toy Surprise the 21" tires/wheels on the X5 M40i rode quite well,even with stupid Run Flats which will be leaving shortly after purchase. Probably going with the X5 because the room is perfect for my needs. No kids/wife bit i always rhrow a lot of stuff in my vehicles, plus its definitely more comfortable for passengers as well as the ride just felt nicer. The one i test drive had the comfort seats which were perfect. Not a fan of the Stiff ass sport seats at all. I've gotta see if i can get the X5 M40i with the sport package/black out package without the black "22 inch wheels.... probably not. Love the look but it just takes away so much of the ride quality. Anyway great review 👍🏻
@@eddiemcars Funny I just grabbed my phone and saw this. I literally just test drove a 2022 X3 M Competition and was really impressed actually. On comfort mode with the 21" wheels it was actually less harsh than I thought! Couldn't believe the power of that thing. Stock! And the handling and braking. Holy Shit! Anyway might close the deal on it tomorrow. Wow did I do a 180 on my decision 😂
So I saw where this is your wife's vehicle, not yours. I'm "torn" between the X3 & X5 purely from a personal size standpoint. I'm 5' 10" / 300 lbs. (Unfortunately) & really having a tough time deciding which. Obviously, the X3 M40i gives you more "bang for your buck" but I'm concerned it might be too cramped for me. I have a friend who's 5'8" & her husband is 6'2" They own an X3 & insist the fit is fine. I've sat in both & really didn't notice all that much of a difference... Your opinion?
I was in the same situation last month but I went with the x5, x3 m40i is brutal but x5 is no slouch either, and is more comfortable for me, 6”3 and 200lb, x3 just felt little small, x5 ride quality is better , it really depends on what you want.
I had the same concerns that the X3 might be a little cramped. I'm frustrated because I'm trying to get everything I can for my buck, but it just isn't going to happen. In this case I really like having ventilated seats, but they aren't offered in the x5 40i at any price. Despite costing a lot more, the X5 is probably the better choice for me too.
@@jetfixer3207I would say test drive both first! And test drive back to back like I did, I just took my x5 from Houston to Oklahoma City today, super comfortable! and I’ll be on a 1600miles road trip with in 2 week, my baby already rack up 4K miles after 1 month of ownership 😂
I took your advice, they didn't have any new X3 M40i's but they did have a 2020 lease return. (close enough) The "fit" in the X3 is fine, but for a daily driver, its a little too "immediate/twitchy" for me. They had a couple of X5's but none with the M Sport package. (again, close enough) I have to give up my ventilated seats, which I love, but otherwise I just liked it a little better all the way around. Bottom line, I went X5 too.
You need the X5, for sure. At 5’11” 205lbs, I would say I’m bordering discomfort in my gf’s x3 m40i. It’s fun as hell to drive but I don’t want to be behind the wheel for any considerable amount of time.
@eddiemcars So why you didn't get the M50i? Which now it goes by M60i. Yea 40i is good for the X3. Due to its size. The X5 is worthy of the V8. X5 M60i yes please.
GREAT Comparison! We were in the middle of which to select... We selected the XDrive 3 with Drive Dynamics. You are the man when it comes to comparisons. EXCELLENT! Thanks. I've been roaming looking for Drive Dynamics vs non drive dynamics on an X3 (non 40)but this was helpful for X3 vs X5
Thanks for the great comparison. I too was recently faced with the same decision and went with the 2020 X5 xDrive40i M Sport (20 inch all season run flats). After extended driving in both, I felt that the X5 had a very taut, yet supple, and a more sophisticated suspension. Very smooth and buttery. It was also quieter, and the vehicle as a whole had a more solid feel. Even the materials inside felt just that much better for some reason. Yes, the X3 M40i barked, popped, crackled, banged, and burbled, but in my opinion, was only slightly faster and a little more exciting to drive. Surprisingly, the steering in the X3 felt a little twitchy and demonstrated what felt like slight torque steer at wide open throttle from a dig. This was maybe due to the tire pressures, but I drove them back to back to back and noticed that I had to hold the steering a little tighter in the X3 when I floored them both from a dig. For context, I traded out of a F82 M4CS, so I was used to a very sporty and firm ride. Maybe I just figured if I am going to get a SUV, just get the better ride quality and leave the super sportiness to a real/true sports car.
What kind of fuel economy have you seen? How has it been so far! Congratulations on the new ride! I’m looking into a 2020 x5 40i as well
@@prabeeshsidhu For context I live in NYC, so average day to day, stop and go with some highways here and there 17 t0 18. On road trips going 80, I get 26. My Fuelly tracker says I’ve averaged 21 mpg over 6000 miles 65hwy/35city. You should get 20/21 average for city if you live in an area where traffic is not as dense as where I’m located.
I got it with 50k on the clock and now it’s at 56k, the only thing I’ve noticed is a somewhat binding sensation from the rear differential in the mornings when it is cold and I make sharp right or left turns. It goes away once it’s warmed up. I had it checked at the dealership and they said it’s ok. It’s still on the CPO warranty until 2025, so I’m not worried. Other than that I love it. Everything is as I described in my first post.
@RothBalloon you traded in your M4CS? No!!!! LOL. I traded in my beloved 2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro (I miss it a lot and hard to find) for a 2024 X3 M40i, for my wife and kept our F87 S55 M2C.
X3 M40i is cheaper, so it's not really a comparison.
@@USMC_LAterZ 😂 Yes sadly. Every time I see one I break my neck. They are really beautiful cars. But I can always get another one, as they don’t seem to hold value at all. More than likely though, I may pick up a lightly used G80/82. So many great stuff to choose from nowadays.
Thanks for the video, This was the determining factor that helped me purchase a 2023 X3 M40i
Great video, exactly the info I was looking for and is thoughtfully presented!
Glad it was helpful!
Those wheels man are so so nice on the X3.
Great video! I like the comparison info you provided about the two vehicles, and your relaxed conversation style of presentation!
nice comparison. i have the X3 m40i, absolutely love it! best car i ever owned. but once in while i wonder about the X5. i was dead set on the B58 tune in the X3, i didnt even test drive the X5. i do a lot of long distance driving with family, and at times cargo space is a tad small. this was a good comparison, loved it. not sure if i would give up my X3 for the X5. it fits like a perfect glove to me.
The X3 feels lighter on it's feet and fun!
@@eddiemcarslad i made the right choice. i tested GLC 43 amg and Audi SQ5 before getting the X3. longest length of smiles and +ve emotions was when i was in the X3. test drove it about 3 times just to make sure. absolute love! new X5s have more power in the 40 trim. but i’m not sold on idrive 8 due to lack of physical buttons for climate control. which makes me wonder how u feel since u own a tesla now.
I was initially attracted to test the x5 45e because of (at the time) its qualifying $7,500 tax credit...but it became apparent very soon that for us, it was a "size too large" with a greater step in height and overall a bit larger overall...space we did not need. Very happy with our 2023 x3 M40i (coincidently also in Alpine White). Another consideration was wheel choice. We stuck with the o.e. 19" standard wheels that enabled both a smoother ride (higher sidewall that 20's or 21 optional wheels) allowed for ease of tire rotation due to same wheel width in the 19s. and saved some dollars as well.
Same here! Love my X3 M40i. The X5 is too big and heavy especially with that engine. No regrets at all
I am an Audi and a BMW fan and you're absolutely right on Q5 and SQ5 not having enough space. The X3 offers much more usable space, not just in cargo but in door panels, glove compartments,, and still gives you same or better performance.
I love my G05.
I have the 2022 X5 and love it. I'm sure the X3 m40i would be more fun with better performance but if you need the extra space, then the X5 gives you that with more luxury. You also have the option of getting a V8 in the X5 which is pretty amazing.
YEP 😊 NOW I KNOW WHICH ONE I'M GETTING THE X3 CAUSE IT'S ME NO KIDS AN IT'S A JUST ME TYPE OF CAR 😊 HAVE A BLESSED WEEK 🎉🎉🎉
Very cool as there aren't that many good X3/X5 comparison videos. I still can't decide between the two. X5 is more luxurious, but at 5'9 its pain to get in. X3 is much more fun to drive and over all has perfect proportions. Fun fact: current X3 is the same size as the original E70 X5
I believe it. The X3’s grew over time. It's only when there's a car seat, I notice how small the rear space is.
X3/4 is noticeably narrower than X5. X3 front sits are also much smaller more for shorter people under 5.9
I guess that’s why I fit fine in the X3, but I can see why the taller people would prefer the 5 series of the X line up for the extra leg room.
I'm 6'4" and fit just fine in the X3. I don't like how wide the x5 is. Like my wife's explorer.
That white X3 is sexy....the wheels just puts in on another level!
Great detailed review....much appreciated!
Man I have the x3 30i lol but I love it and have driven a x5 loaner once and that was just like driving on clouds almost but if I had to choose I'd take a x3 m40 mainly for the extra power
What is the cost of these SUV’s for the manufacturer? and what is the markup at the dealership? How much do the dealers profit? 😀
In Europe with limited parking space, M40i is just perfect for me. Keen to upgrade to X5 but the parking problem comes to mind
The M40i is a good compromise!
Is the wider x5 trickier to get through spaces that an x3 can take? A single door garage?
These are both great vehicles (I suspect, I never considered the X3 due to size, as I had driven a three-row Mercedes GL for 10 years). I’m sure the X3, being smaller and lighter, is quicker and more fun to drive. That said, I bought an X5 40i in the Tanzanite Blue, with the M-Sport pro package and 22-inch black wheels, so the only chrome on the car are the badges on the rear. It’s a stunning look that I constantly receive compliments on. Just a great vehicle and a lot more fun than my old Mercedes (also a great vehicle, nearly trouble-free for 125k miles).
I’ve been causally looking for a certain spec Tanzanite II X5! Great color and wheel choice!
Only if it had driving assistance professional package then only will it get adaptive cruise control!
Nice!
Would be interesting to compare to X5 xDrive50e that comes with 483hp and 4.6s vs 4.4s for X4 M40i. The air suspension supposedly is standard on 50e that might be both sporty and comfy.
There’s almost a $40k difference between those two cars though. The two cars he compared cost about the same.
@@islandknight6105 That does not seem accurate. More like ~ $11k in starting price but yeah you can go crazy on options. In any case, your point is well taken it's the next size up sort of speak.. Just also looking for bigger / sportier / easier on gas, if that exists besides Model Y
Debating newer x5 m50i for the v8. I miss from my old c63s coupe, or the x3’s comp for around the same price
That's tough. Both are great options. The M50i is going to be comfortable and less aggressive than the X3M Comp. The X3M might fill that void you are missing from C63s
In real life, the “space” difference in rear seating is less than an inch. You only realize that extra 2-3” in the cargo area, and it isn’t all that noticeable. There’s a softer “feel” in the x5, and more body roll with inspired driving, but people waste too much time speaking about the “space” differences. The X5 is a little wider, a little taller, a little longer - emphasis on little. Both are great, but don’t make your decision based on cargo space, legroom, etc…
Well ypu went over a lot of helpful stuff here. Im in the boat of having to decide between a X3 M40i or a X5 M40i myself at the moment. Twst drove the X3M and rode in a Friend's X5M. Couldn't believe how Harsh the ride was in comparison. Those 22" wheels on 30 series tires sure dont help. Toy Surprise the 21" tires/wheels on the X5 M40i rode quite well,even with stupid Run Flats which will be leaving shortly after purchase. Probably going with the X5 because the room is perfect for my needs. No kids/wife bit i always rhrow a lot of stuff in my vehicles, plus its definitely more comfortable for passengers as well as the ride just felt nicer. The one i test drive had the comfort seats which were perfect. Not a fan of the Stiff ass sport seats at all. I've gotta see if i can get the X5 M40i with the sport package/black out package without the black "22 inch wheels.... probably not. Love the look but it just takes away so much of the ride quality. Anyway great review 👍🏻
I felt the ride was very harsh on the full X3 M.
Would you consider a pre owned M Sport X5 40i?
@@eddiemcars Funny I just grabbed my phone and saw this. I literally just test drove a 2022 X3 M Competition and was really impressed actually. On comfort mode with the 21" wheels it was actually less harsh than I thought! Couldn't believe the power of that thing. Stock! And the handling and braking. Holy Shit! Anyway might close the deal on it tomorrow. Wow did I do a 180 on my decision 😂
What color is the x5?
Was the ride quality better with the x3 m40i?
It wasn’t as cushy the X5 but a lot smoother than the X3M or X5M. The X3M40i has a firmer ride but it’s not harsh.
So I saw where this is your wife's vehicle, not yours. I'm "torn" between the X3 & X5 purely from a personal size standpoint. I'm 5' 10" / 300 lbs. (Unfortunately) & really having a tough time deciding which. Obviously, the X3 M40i gives you more "bang for your buck" but I'm concerned it might be too cramped for me. I have a friend who's 5'8" & her husband is 6'2" They own an X3 & insist the fit is fine. I've sat in both & really didn't notice all that much of a difference... Your opinion?
I was in the same situation last month but I went with the x5, x3 m40i is brutal but x5 is no slouch either, and is more comfortable for me, 6”3 and 200lb, x3 just felt little small, x5 ride quality is better , it really depends on what you want.
I had the same concerns that the X3 might be a little cramped. I'm frustrated because I'm trying to get everything I can for my buck, but it just isn't going to happen. In this case I really like having ventilated seats, but they aren't offered in the x5 40i at any price. Despite costing a lot more, the X5 is probably the better choice for me too.
@@jetfixer3207I would say test drive both first! And test drive back to back like I did, I just took my x5 from Houston to Oklahoma City today, super comfortable! and I’ll be on a 1600miles road trip with in 2 week, my baby already rack up 4K miles after 1 month of ownership 😂
I took your advice, they didn't have any new X3 M40i's but they did have a 2020 lease return. (close enough) The "fit" in the X3 is fine, but for a daily driver, its a little too "immediate/twitchy" for me. They had a couple of X5's but none with the M Sport package. (again, close enough) I have to give up my ventilated seats, which I love, but otherwise I just liked it a little better all the way around. Bottom line, I went X5 too.
You need the X5, for sure. At 5’11” 205lbs, I would say I’m bordering discomfort in my gf’s x3 m40i. It’s fun as hell to drive but I don’t want to be behind the wheel for any considerable amount of time.
Is the exhaust on the g01 stock?
Yes, it’s completely stock
The X3 M40i is like a little hamster 😮💨
I lol’d 😂
I guess. You dont want V8 power. Both are 40i's.
The tuning on the M40i and smaller package makes it more fun.
Personally, I would get the M50i even though I don’t need the power
@eddiemcars So why you didn't get the M50i? Which now it goes by M60i. Yea 40i is good for the X3. Due to its size. The X5 is worthy of the V8. X5 M60i yes please.
european here, bmw is known for 6 cylinder engines, their V8 has problems
@@reynaldocordero4247fuel economy and price, I presume.
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