The compact crossover BMW X3 gets 28.7-62.7 cubic feet of cargo space; The midsize luxury SUV BMW X5 gets 33.9-72.3 cubic feet of cargo space; BMW X3 vs. X5: Performance. Both BMW models offer powerful engines with plenty of towing capability for your Park Ridge adventures, as well as a choice of rear-wheel drive and the intelligent BMW xDrive
The older gen X5 was built off of the e39 chassis (5-series) whereas the X3 is built off the old 3-series (e46) chassis. I think the new X5 is a standalone platform (someone correct me if I am wrong). When you compare e39's to e46's, the e39's always seem to have much better build quality, when you look at the interiors, trimwork etc.
It's really about perceived need for power and cost. The top-dog 6-zylinder diesel has always been brilliant fun and the X3 35d is no exception, but the 30d is plenty fast. My pop has the X5 3.0sd/xDrive35d and that has way more power than it ever needs.
Compare 2021 BMW X3 vs. 2020 BMW X5. Compare the 2021 BMW X3 with the 2020 BMW X5: car rankings, scores, prices and specs. Model Year.sSwx.