The 2023 Mazda CX-50 is a more appealing premium SUV than the 2023 BMW X3

When shopping for your next premium midsize SUV, two models are likely to find their way onto your shopping list: the 2023 Mazda CX-50 and the 2023 BMW X3. Both vehicles offer an impressive combination of luxury, performance, and features. But which one is right for you? Let's take a look at how they compare across three key metrics: spaciousness, performance, value, and features.

Spaciousness

The Mazda CX-50 is renowned for its airy cabin. It offers plenty of space for passengers and their cargo, with a total interior volume of 152 cubic feet—more than enough for five people and their luggage. The BMW X3 is slightly smaller, offering 144 total cubic feet of interior volume—still ample space but not quite as expansive as the CX-50.

Performance and efficiency

When it comes to performance, both vehicles offer an impressive balance between power and efficiency. The Mazda CX-50 comes standard with a peppy 2.5L four-cylinder engine that will consume one full litre per 100km less fuel, according to NRCan, than the X3’s base turbocharged 2.0L engine in combined driving.

The Mazda’s available turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder produces up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque while averaging an NRCan estimated 9.4L/100km in mixed driving. The BMW X3’s available 3L turbocharged six-cylinder engine develops marginally more torque at 369 lb-ft but at the expense of consuming an NRCan estimated 10.1L/100km.

Features

The Mazda includes standard features such as a 10.25-inch full-colour centre display, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, a panoramic moonroof, and a host of advanced safety technologies—all included in its base price without having to pay extra for any additional packages or options! Meanwhile the BMW requires you to pay extra for most of these same features if you want them included in your vehicle.             

Value

Finally, let's talk about value. The Mazda CX-50 comes with a base price of well under $40,000 while the BMW X3 starts at over $55,000—a difference of more than $15,000 before any options or packages are added to either vehicle! And, if you want the larger engine in the BMW, the price difference jumps to a staggering $20,000+.

All things considered, it's easy to see why selecting the 2023 Mazda CX-50 over the competing 2023 BMW X3 makes more sense when shopping for a premium SUV this year: It offers far more space inside its cabin along with comparable performance but comes at a much lower price point when compared to its German rival. With all that said, if you're looking for a luxurious yet affordable SUV option this year—look no further than the 2023 Mazda CX-50!