2018 BMW X3 - What else can you buy for a similar price

The new BMW X3 has finally been launched in India today. Available in two variants, the xDrive 20d Expedition is priced at Rs 49.99 lakhs, while the xDrive 20d Luxury Line is priced at Rs 56.70 lakhs. The new X3 will further help the German car manufacturer to strengthen its foothold in India. Here below is a list of cars across different body styles that you can opt for a similar price.

SUV

Speaking of its competition within the bodystyle, the new X3 takes on the likes of Audi Q5, Lexus NX, Volvo XC60 and the Jeep Wrangler. The Audi Q5 comes closest to the new Q3 in terms of performance figures, however it justifies the slightly extra premium pricing over the X3 with its new Virtual Cockpit along with ambient lighting and large infotainment screen with MMI function. Powered by a 2.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, the Lexus NX300h holds its unique identity as a hybrid SUV. As for the Volvo XC60, it holds the coveted title of world car of the year, need we say more? Speaking of hardcore old school rugged SUVs, the Jeep Wrangler offers a standard 4x4 drive system in petrol as well as diesel engine guise.

Sedans

Well, this one is the globally oved category. Hate it or love it, but sedans will always hold a special place in the global automotive market. If you have the budget for the X3 and yet would like to consider options from the sedan category, you have the Audi A6 Matrix in petrol and diesel engine options. Interestingly, the A6 Matrix is the only car in the segment to be offered with a dynamic damping setting. For a similar price you also have the A5 which is fairly decent performer in the segment. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has been a popular choice for years now and the current fifth-generation model remains unperturbed with the LWB (Long Wheel Base) version being sold in India. The Lexus ES300h emerges as the only one in a similar price range to offer a hybrid setup in India. There is also the Volvo S90 which is known for class leading safety features.

Within family, you also have the BMW 5 Series which is based on the new Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform. The new G30 5 Series is around 100kgs lighter than its outgoing model.

Roadster

Well, this one would be like comparing apple to an orange. However, given our taste for fancy cars, you can also opt for the Audi A3 Cabriolet. The A3 Cabriolet is clearly a sportier iteration of the A3 sedan and the main highlight for it is the soft fabric roof that is stretched over a lightweight kinematic mechanism made of magnesium steel.