X3 vs QX50
Brand preference aside, the X3 and the QX50 are close competitors, both pitched at compact luxury suv buyers. The data points to two closely matched options rather than a clear favorite.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Trade-off
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance4.0
- Engine & Performance4.2
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The QX50 has 13 hp more power
The QX50 nudges ahead with 268 hp, while the X3 lists 255 hp. The QX50’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
-
The X3 has 15 lb-ft more torque
This one is close enough that other factors could outweigh it, but on paper the X3 leads with 295 lb-ft to 280 lb-ft. Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | X3 | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | N/A (not specified) | 184.7 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | N/A (not specified) | 74.9 in |
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 110.2 in |
Engine & Performance
Trade-off
This is where the two diverge. The X3 delivers 15 lb-ft more torque; the QX50 delivers 13 hp more power. If you’re torn on engine & performance, the other sections may help break the tie.
Total system output
X3: 255 hp QX50: 268 hp More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
Torque
X3: 295 lb-ft QX50: 280 lb-ft More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
Side by side, the space & practicality figures for the X3 and the QX50 barely differ. Don’t let space & practicality decide this one; look at the other sections instead.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
There’s no meaningful winner in the off-road & towing section; the two are too close to separate. Neither car gives you a reason to choose it on off-road & towing.
Safety & Tech
The X3 and the QX50 differ on safety & tech in ways that are described rather than measured. The table has the details.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | X3 | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas (48V mild hybrid) | Gas |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | 2.0L turbo I4 (VC-Turbo) |
| Total system output | 255 hp | 268 hp (winner) |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft (winner) | 280 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) | FWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | X3 | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | N/A (not specified) | 26 mpg |
| Fuel economy (city) | N/A (not specified) | 23 mpg |
| Fuel economy (highway) | N/A (not specified) | 29 mpg |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | X3 | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | N/A (not specified) | 31.4 cu ft Biggest cargo area |
| Cargo (seats folded) | N/A (not specified) | 65.1 cu ft Most room, seats folded |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | X3 | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | X3 | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 60,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | X3 | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | N/A (not specified) | 184.7 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | N/A (not specified) | 74.9 in |
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 110.2 in |
Price
| Spec | X3 | QX50 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $49,500 | N/A (not specified) |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the X3 if…
- you want more pulling power from low speeds (295 lb-ft vs 280 lb-ft of torque)
- you trust BMW and want to keep things familiar
Choose the QX50 if…
- you merge, overtake or climb hills with a full load (268 hp vs 255 hp)
- you already use other Infiniti products
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the X3 or the QX50?
There’s no single right answer. The X3 leads on pulling power and the QX50 on performance.
Executive Summary
I read both spec sheets (the X3’s and the QX50’s) so you don’t have to. Honestly, 15 lb-ft more torque on the X3 does a lot of the persuading for me. Still, if you care most about 13 hp more power, the QX50 deserves a look.
A quick self-test: do you care more about pulling power or performance? The first answer means the X3, the second means the QX50.
My pick: whichever matches your priority, since pulling power means the X3 and performance means the QX50.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.