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Subaru Forester vs BMW X3 - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (180 HP vs 393 HP), trunk space and price (30,000 $ vs 50,000 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Subaru Forester or BMW X3?

Subaru Forester vs BMW X3: Key differences

Subaru Forester

  • significantly cheaper
  • somewhat more efficient
  • slightly lighter

BMW X3

  • significantly more power

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Forester

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Subaru Forester is significantly cheaper – starting at 30,000 $ , while the BMW X3 costs 50,000 $ . That’s a price difference of around 19,955 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Subaru Forester performs somewhat better – achieving 26 mpg, compared to 21 mpg for the BMW X3. That’s a difference of about 5 mpg.

X3

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the BMW X3 offers significantly more power – delivering 393 HP compared to 180 HP. That’s roughly 213 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the BMW X3 delivers significantly more torque with 428 lb-ft compared to 178 lb-ft. That’s about 250 lb-ft more.

Forester

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Subaru Forester is slightly lighter – 3,510 lbs compared to 4,176 lbs. The difference is around 666 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The BMW X3 is barely ahead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $50,000
X3

BMW X3

  • Engine Type :
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All Wheel
  • Power HP : 255 - 393 HP
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Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

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General
View detailed analysis

Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is the outdoorsy family SUV that shrugs off muddy trails and bad weather as easily as it handles school runs. With airy visibility, a practical cabin, and unflappable all-wheel-drive confidence, it delivers no-drama comfort during the week and genuine adventure vibes on the weekend without trying too hard.

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BMW X3

The BMW X3 blends real-world practicality with that familiar Bavarian poise, turning everyday errands into a small celebration of good steering. Inside, it feels classy without shouting, and the ride has the calm confidence that makes you invent detours just to keep driving.

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BMW X3

Costs and Consumption
Price
30,000 - 40,300 $
Price
50,000 - 64,700 $
FuelEconomy City
25 - 26 mpg
FuelEconomy City
21 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
32 - 33 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
26 - 28 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
16.6 gal
Fuel tank capacity
17.2 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,510 - 3,664 lbs
Curb weight
4,176 - 4,535 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
-
Length
183.3 in.
Length
187.2 in.
Width
72 in.
Width
75.6 in.
Height
68 in.
Height
65 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
All Wheel
Drive Type
All Wheel
Power HP
180 HP
Power HP
255 - 393 HP
Torque
178 lb-ft
Torque
295 - 428 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2.5 L
Engine Displacement
2 - 3 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,025
Brand
Subaru
Brand
BMW
What is the price of the Subaru Forester?

The Subaru Forester starts at 30,000 $.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.