Comparing The Volvo XC60 Vs. BMW X3

You'll inevitably find yourself comparing Volvo XC60 vs. BMW X3 models when it comes to finding your next two-row luxury SUV – so why not start right now? Below, our Gunther Volvo Cars Daytona Beach team covers trim options, performance specs, plug-in hybrid availability, notable features, and more to assist you in finding the perfect combination of style and capability for your next automobile. Let's dive into the differences between the 2025 Volvo XC60 and the 2025 BMW X3.

Compare Volvo XC60 vs. BMW X3 Models With Gunther Volvo Cars Daytona Beach

The BMW X3 is built for those who crave a sporty edge. Known for its agile handling and smooth, powerful performance, it offers an engaging ride thanks to its precision engineering. On the other hand, the Volvo XC60 offers a reputation for safety and a Scandinavian-inspired design. It combines a luxurious interior with advanced driver aids, including the Volvo Pilot Assist driver-assistance technology, along with powerful yet fuel-efficient engine options.

View the table below for a quick overview of performance specs, driver-support technology, and standard features for both models. Then, read on to compare the Volvo XC60 against one of its primary rivals.

Compare Volvo XC60 vs. BMW X3 Models With Gunther Volvo Cars Daytona Beach

The BMW X3 is built for those who crave a sporty edge. Known for its agile handling and smooth, powerful performance, it offers an engaging ride thanks to its precision engineering. On the other hand, the Volvo XC60 offers a reputation for safety and a Scandinavian-inspired design. It combines a luxurious interior with advanced driver aids, including the Volvo Pilot Assist driver-assistance technology, along with powerful yet fuel-efficient engine options.

View the table below for a quick overview of performance specs, driver-support technology, and standard features for both models. Then, read on to compare the Volvo XC60 against one of its primary rivals.

Volvo XC60 vs. BMW X3: Trim Levels

The Volvo XC60 comes out of the gate with three trim levels, but unlike other models, you don't need to upgrade to higher configurations for a better engine. The Volvo XC60 trims are equipped with the same B5 AWD mild-hybrid powertrain across the entire lineup. The three options include:

• 2025 Volvo XC60 Core
• 2025 Volvo XC60 Plus
• 2025 Volvo XC60 Ultra

As you look to the higher trims, you can upgrade to a number of additional features. For example, the Plus trim comes standard with interior illumination and a 360-Degree Camera, whereas the Ultra trim provides a futuristic Head-Up Display and Harman Kardon® premium sound system.

The Volvo XC60 PHEV offers the same three trim levels plus the Polestar Engineered, which includes the Polestar-engineered chassis and 21-inch wheels. To see all of the configurations available, check out our new Volvo selection.

Now, let's take a look at the BMW X3. The BMW SUV doesn't offer as many options, only providing two different models in the lineup and not offering as many standard features as the Volvo XC60. For example, the Volvo XC60 comes standard with a panoramic sunroof, whereas the BMW X3 requires an additional package to get this feature. The BMW X3 trims include:

• 2025 BMW X3 xDrive30
• 2025 BMW X3 M50

Volvo XC60 vs. BMW X3 Performance and Safety

At first glance, the BMW X3 may appear to be the more powerful luxury 5-seater – and it should, given the automaker's emphasis on sport performance. However, we'll see below that without the option for a plug-in-hybrid powertrain, it can't keep up with the Volvo sport-ute.

Performance

As mentioned above, the Volvo XC60 comes equipped with the B5 AWD powertrain across the entire lineup, along with standard all-wheel drive for better traction. While the BMW X3 does churn out more horsepower with its engine, you have to opt for the highest trim level in order to get the maximum performance.

Another notable performance category that can't be overlooked in this category is the BMW lineup's lack of a plug-in-hybrid variant for the BMW X3. The Volvo XC60 Plug-In Hybrid comes with a T8 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine that actually makes more horsepower than the higher-spec 3.0-liter engine in the BMW X3. The Volvo XC60 PHEV produces up to 455 horsepower compared to 393 for the BMW X3.

This is also where we see the Volvo model do laps around the BMW SUV in terms of fuel efficiency. While the BMW X3 gets slightly better MPG ratings, it can't hold a candle to the EPA-estimated 63 MPGe (Combined)⁴ offered by the Volvo XC60 Plug-In Hybrid.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Technology

Whether you accept the Volvo XC60 PHEV performance as a valid inclusion in this debate or believe it should be considered separately, there's no denying that the mild-hybrid Volvo XC60 outpaces the BMW X3 at every turn of the safety and driver-support race.

The Volvo XC60 comes stocked full of technology to aid you on your drives and keep your family safe, including the following:

• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™) and Cross Traffic Alert
• Rear Collision Mitigation Support
• Intelligent Driver Information System
• Hill Start Assist
• Whiplash Injury Protection System
• Oncoming Lane Mitigation
• Lane Keeping Aid
• Road Sign Information
• Rear Park Assist with Camera
• Slippery Road Alert

That doesn't even take into account the available technologies for the 2025 Volvo XC60. By contrast, the BMW X3 offers a much smaller collection of standard inclusions listed below:

• Active Blind Spot Detection
• Lane Departure Warning
• Frontal Collision Warning
• Active Driving Assistant
• Active Protection

Plus, the BMW X3 requires you to dig through several optional packages to unlock the available features you'll find on higher trims of the Volvo XC60, such as a Head-Up Display. If the safety of your loved ones is paramount, the well-appointed Volvo XC60 comes out on top every time.

Volvo XC60 vs. BMW X3 Interior

Both the Volvo XC60 and BMW X3 provide spacious interiors with a number of different user-friendly features, infotainment systems, and quality materials for drivers. Let's dive into the details of both models.

Volvo XC60 vs. BMW X3 Dimensions

While the Volvo XC60 and BMW X3 both provide comfortable interiors with seating for five passengers, the Volvo XC60 prioritizes passenger space with more legroom. The BMW X3 has 40.2 inches of front legroom and 36.3 inches of rear legroom. The Volvo XC60 comes in at 41.5 inches of front legroom and 38 inches of rear legroom.

Volvo XC60 vs. BMW X3 Technology

The Volvo XC60 and BMW X3 both have several standard and available technology features:

Volvo XC60

• Google built-in services
• Bowers & Wilkins® audio system
• Head-Up Display
• Apple CarPlay®

BMW X3

• BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant
• BMW Digital Key Plus
• Harman Kardon® surround sound system
• BMW Curved Display with the optional BMW Digital Premium package

Volvo XC60 vs. BMW X3 Review: Who Wins?

Volvo Cars makes cars for families, and safety and cabin comfort are of the utmost priority for the project engineers each time they begin a new design. Volvo Cars is known for implementing standard safety features that will ensure your most precious companions are safe and sound, whether they're absorbed in their favorite show or grabbing a much-needed nap.

We encourage you to come visit our showroom at Gunther Volvo Cars Daytona Beach to compare BMW X3 vs. Volvo XC60 models further with one of our vehicle experts. They'll introduce you to our Volvo lease specials or explore financing options with you. Be sure to compare the BMW X3 with these specials before making a decision. We have used cars available as well, including the Volvo XC60 from past model years. So, come by and see for yourself what sets this Volvo SUV apart from its competitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is bigger: BMW X3 or Volvo XC60?

Compare Volvo XC60 vs. BMW X3 dimensions, and you'll find that the BMW X3 is slightly longer than the Volvo XC60. Specifically, the Volvo XC60 measures 185.4 inches long, while the BMW X3 measures 187.2 inches long. Despite this difference, the Volvo XC60 still manages to offer more legroom in both rows, providing additional comfort for you and your passengers. Contact us to learn more about the dimensions.

Which costs more: the BMW X3 vs. Volvo XC60?

The BMW X3 costs more than the Volvo XC60, yet the Volvo XC60 comes with more standard features, whereas the BMW X3 generally requires additional packages to get certain amenities. This means that while the BMW X3 may initially appear more premium, the Volvo XC60 delivers greater value right out of the gate with features like a panoramic sunroof and advanced driver-assistance technologies included in its base model.

How does the Volvo XC60 compare to the BMW X3?

While both of these elegant SUVs offer a fun driving experience and plenty of luxe features, the Volvo XC60 is the superior vehicle. It pairs better value for your dollar with more standard features. The Volvo XC60 is also full of cutting-edge technology and a refined Scandinavian style. Visit Gunther Volvo Cars Daytona Beach today for a Volvo XC60 test drive.

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¹When properly equipped.

²EPA estimated range is 23 MPG city/30 MPG highway/26 MPG combined (B5 AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov/

³Preliminary EPA-estimated figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on speed, driving habits, trip length and driving conditions; actual mileage may be lower.

⁴Estimated range according to the EPA driving cycles. The actual range achieved under real conditions varies depending on driving behavior, driving conditions, how you maintain your vehicle, battery and other external factors. Visit fueleconomy.gov for further information.