@ BMW Group Press
@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
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BMW X3 vs Ford Kuga – Which one offers the better deal?

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW X3 or Ford Kuga?

X3 @ BMW Group Press

Head-to-Head: BMW X3 vs Ford Kuga

In the competitive realm of mid-size SUVs, the BMW X3 and Ford Kuga are noteworthy contenders for those seeking a blend of performance, practicality, and cutting-edge technology. While both vehicles make compelling cases, their differences in technical aspects and innovative offerings might sway potential buyers. Let's delve into the specifics to see how these two titans compare.

Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Performance and Powertrain Options

The BMW X3 offers a broad range of engine options catering to various performance preferences. The available engine types include Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, and Petrol, with power outputs stretching from 184 HP to an impressive 510 HP for the top-tier M variants. A noteworthy feature across the X3 range is the automatic transmission coupled with all-wheel drive, enhancing traction and driving dynamics.

In contrast, the Ford Kuga provides a choice of Petrol, Full Hybrid, and Plugin Hybrid engines, delivering power from 150 HP to 243 HP. The Kuga offers both manual and automatic transmission options, with a mix of front-wheel and all-wheel drive, thus catering to different driver preferences and conditions.

X3 @ BMW Group Press

Efficiency and Environmental Impact

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Kuga shines with its plug-in hybrid variant achieving a consumption of 0.9 L/100km and a substantial electric range of 69 km. These numbers support its reputation as an eco-friendly option, with CO2 emissions as low as 20 g/km.

The BMW X3's hybrid model also impresses with a similar electric range of up to 90 km and a fuel consumption of 2.1 L/100km, thanks to its advanced battery with a capacity of 19.7 kWh. However, some of the higher-performance models have higher fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, indicative of their robust power outputs.

Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Dimensions and Space

Both SUVs comfortably accommodate five passengers, but differences arise in terms of cargo capacity. The BMW X3 offers trunk space that ranges from 450 to 570 liters, depending on the configuration. Its length varies slightly across models but generally stays around 4713 mm, with a curb weight between 1875 kg and 2140 kg.

On the other hand, the Ford Kuga presents a trunk capacity of 412 liters. Its length varies slightly less than the X3, spanning from 4604 mm to 4645 mm, and it has a lighter curb weight between 1526 kg and 1859 kg, making it easier for city navigation and parking.

X3 @ BMW Group Press

Innovations and Features

BMW's reputation for incorporating advanced technology is evident in the X3, which offers a wide array of driver assistance systems and infotainment options. Features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a high-resolution touch interface are standard across most variants, enhancing both safety and comfort.

The Ford Kuga also embraces technology with its intuitive SYNC 3 infotainment system, offering seamless smartphone integration, advanced voice commands, and driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. The Kuga's pragmatic approach emphasizes user-friendly technology that complements everyday driving needs.

Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Final Thoughts

In the battle between the BMW X3 and Ford Kuga, both vehicles offer distinct advantages. The X3 stands out with its powerful engine lineup and luxury detailing, ideal for those who prioritize performance and a premium feel. Meanwhile, the Kuga promises a practical and eco-conscious drive, appealing to those who value efficiency and modern tech without sacrificing capability.

Ultimately, the choice between these SUVs will depend on whether your priorities lie with high-end performance and luxury, or practicality and efficiency. Both models showcase the best of modern automotive engineering, making the decision less about which is better, and more about which suits your lifestyle and needs.

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

X3 @ BMW Group Press

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Ford Kuga has a decisively advantage in terms of price – it starts at 34200 £, while the BMW X3 costs 51300 £. That’s a price difference of around 17015 £.

Both cars consume an average of 2.80 L per 100 km – no difference here.

As for range, the BMW X3 performs evident better – achieving up to 88 km, about 20 km more than the Ford Kuga.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the BMW X3 has a noticeable edge – offering 398 HP compared to 243 HP. That’s roughly 155 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the BMW X3 is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.60 s, while the Ford Kuga takes 7.30 s. That’s about 2.70 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the BMW X3 performs slightly better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Ford Kuga tops out at 200 km/h. The difference is around 50 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: BMW X3 pulls decisively stronger with 670 Nm compared to 240 Nm. That’s about 430 Nm difference.

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 curb weight, Ford Kuga is distinct lighter – 1526 kg compared to 1930 kg. The difference is around 404 kg.

In terms of boot space, the BMW X3 offers evident more room – 570 L compared to 412 L. That’s a difference of about 158 L.

In maximum load capacity, the BMW X3 performs slight better – up to 1700 L, which is about 166 L more than the Ford Kuga.

When it comes to payload, BMW X3 hardly perceptible takes the win – 570 kg compared to 550 kg. That’s a difference of about 20 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the BMW X3 shows itself to be wins the duel decisively and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £51,300
X3 @ BMW Group Press

BMW X3

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 197 - 398 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.8 - 7.7 L
  • Electric Range : 88 km

BMW X3

The BMW X3 mixes Bavarian poise with everyday practicality, delivering a composed ride and a cabin that feels both premium and lived-in. It’s the sort of SUV that lets you enjoy sporty handling without sacrificing family-friendly space, so you get fun and sense in one neat package.

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Ford Kuga

3.5 (2)
rate

The Kuga is Ford’s adaptable family SUV that blends usable space with a surprisingly lively driving character, making daily commutes and weekend escapes equally enjoyable. With smart interior packaging, an easy-to-use infotainment setup and composed road manners, it’s a sensible choice for buyers who want a bit of fun without the fuss.

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BMW X3
Ford Kuga
X3 @ BMW Group Press
Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Costs and Consumption

Price
51300 - 72400 £
Price
34200 - 46300 £
Consumption L/100km
2.8 - 7.7 L
Consumption L/100km
2.8 - 6.8 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
88 km
Electric Range
68 km
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
1.1 - 14.4 kWh
co2
64 - 175 g/km
co2
55 - 154 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
50 - 65 L
Fuel tank capacity
42 - 54 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1930 - 2140 kg
Curb weight
1526 - 1859 kg
Trunk capacity
460 - 570 L
Trunk capacity
412 L
Length
4755 mm
Length
4604 - 4645 mm
Width
1920 mm
Width
1882 mm
Height
1660 mm
Height
1673 - 1681 mm
Max trunk capacity
1600 - 1700 L
Max trunk capacity
1534 L
Payload
570 kg
Payload
541 - 550 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol, Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, CVT, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
197 - 398 HP
Power HP
150 - 243 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.6 - 7.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.3 - 9.9 s
Max Speed
215 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
195 - 200 km/h
Torque
330 - 670 Nm
Torque
240 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
145 - 293 kW
Power kW
111 - 178 kW
Engine capacity
1995 - 2998 cm3
Engine capacity
1496 - 2488 cm3

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
F, E, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, D, B
Brand
BMW
Brand
Ford
What drive types are available for the BMW X3?

The BMW X3 is offered with All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.