The 2019 BMW X3 is a versatile compact crossover that delivers on rising expectations.
Pros Handsome exterior Responsive and sharp powertrains Standard automatic emergency braking this year Good outward vision Ample interior room
Cons Can easily reach more than $60,000 CarPlay with a subscription? Really? Conservative compared to competitors No electrified version yet Relatively heavy steering
The 2019 BMW X3 ranked #5 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the BMW X3 has a score of 8.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 13 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Powerful engines Nimble handling Spacious, supportive seats Above-average cargo capacity
Cons Rivals are more opulent inside Above-average starting price
Fifteen years ago, it might have been difficult to foresee the success of the X3. Back then, BMW's 3 Series wagon set the standard for the class and offered all the practicality you could want in a vehicle that size. Why get something that didn't handle as well and got worse fuel economy? But that original 2004 X3 helped pioneer the entry-level luxury SUV class, and the 2019 X3 is now a hugely important staple in the BMW lineup.
Pros Both available engines are fuel-efficient and powerful Wide variety of standard and optional features for personalization Plenty of room for front and rear passengers
Cons Android Auto is conspicuously absent from the options list
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class captivates crossover types with its lush cabin and its plush ride; there’s AMG power on tap if you must.
Pros Cabinet-grade interior (agency or furniture) Choose your body Choose your engine Burmester audio thrills Doesn’t cut short on technology
Cons Expensive safety options It’s not a Coupe, it’s just less useful Numb steering (GLC 300) Rivals have diesel, plug-ins
Two new models join the GLC-Class lineup: the GLC 350e plug-in hybrid and the performance-oriented AMG GLC 63. Heated wipers are now standard, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can now be added with the Smartphone Integration package. Mercedes has also renamed some packages to better convey the features added.
PROS Balance of comfort and performance makes it an appealing daily driver Elegant design inside and out gives it a true luxury appearance Plenty of room for adult-size passengers in back Solid fuel economy from the standard four-cylinder engine
CONS Feature for feature, it is pricier than many competitors Technology interface isn't always easy to use
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class ranked #3 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class has a score of 8.8 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 30 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Outstanding interior Plenty of standard tech features Quiet, smooth ride
Cons Some rivals are more athletic Below-average cargo space in coupe models
