Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: BMW X3 or Renault Rafale?
The automotive world is witness to a captivating clash of titans with the BMW X3 and the newly introduced Renault Rafale. Both SUVs epitomize style, performance, and innovation, yet they cater to different palettes in the car enthusiast community. Let's take a deep dive into their specifications, technology, and what sets them apart.
Under the hood, the BMW X3 offers a wide range of engine options, including diesel and petrol mild hybrids, a plug-in hybrid, and pure petrol engines. With power output ranging from 184 HP to a high-performance 510 HP, the X3 provides versatility to match different driving moods. Acceleration varies from 3.8 seconds to 8.4 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint, indicative of its broad spectrum of performance capabilities.
The Renault Rafale, however, captures attention with its hybrid core, offering a cohesive blend of power and efficiency. With two prominent engine options, delivering 200 HP and 300 HP, clocking 8.9 seconds and 6.4 seconds respectively from 0 to 100 km/h, it promises an impressive driving experience with a nod towards eco-friendliness.
For environmentally conscious drivers, the Rafale's full hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants offer remarkable fuel efficiencies of 4.7 L/100 km and 0.6 L/100 km, alongside commendable CO2 emissions ratings of 106 g/km and 14 g/km, respectively. The electric range of 97 km further ensures reduced carbon footprints for the daily commuter.
The BMW X3, with its versatile engine lineup, incorporates sustainability with an electric range up to 90 km for its plug-in hybrid variant, boasting a consumption rate as low as 2.1 L/100 km. It presents a revised CO2 efficiency across engine variations, appealing to the eco-conscious consumer.
Both SUVs conform to sleek, modern design philosophies that highlight their brand identities. The X3 spans a length of up to 4755 mm, a width of 1920 mm, and a height reaching 1669 mm, combining robust German engineering with elegance and utility.
Meanwhile, the Rafale dresses in sleeker dimensions at 4710 mm in length, 1886 mm in width, and a height of 1613 mm, conveying a dynamic presence while optimizing space efficiency for heightened urban maneuverability.
Inside, the Renault Rafale takes a practical lead with a trunk capacity stretching to 627 L, while the X3 offers between 450 L and 570 L, dependent on the model type. Both provide comfortable seating for five, blending luxury with functionality, yet Renault edges slightly ahead in cargo versatility.
Both vehicles are fitted with cutting-edge technology. The BMW X3 integrates advanced infotainment systems and driver assistance innovations, staying true to its tagline of "The Ultimate Driving Machine." Its all-wheel-drive capability also enhances its rugged appeal for those seeking adventure beyond the asphalt.
Renault's commitment to technology in the Rafale is evident with its seamless automatic transmission and energy recuperation technology, capitalizing significantly on fuel economy and driving smoothness, crafting an ideal balance for the eco-enthusiast.
The decision between the BMW X3 and Renault Rafale comes down to personal preference and driving priorities. The X3 offers more powertrain diversity and a premium performance edge, while the Rafale firmly stands with its hybrid efficiency and cargo practicality. Potential buyers must weigh their desire for performance against their need for environmental mindfulness. In the end, both SUVs offer compelling packages that set the bar high in the modern automotive landscape.
Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.
Renault Rafale has a clearly perceptible advantage in terms of price – it starts at 37500 £, while the BMW X3 costs 51300 £. That’s a price difference of around 13715 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Renault Rafale manages with 0.60 L and is therefore significantly more efficient than the BMW X3 with 2.80 L. The difference is about 2.20 L per 100 km.
As for range, the Renault Rafale performs barely noticeable better – achieving up to 97 km, about 9 km more than the BMW X3.
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 clearly perceptible edge – offering 398 HP compared to 300 HP. That’s roughly 98 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the BMW X3 is distinct quicker – completing the sprint in 4.60 s, while the Renault Rafale takes 6.40 s. That’s about 1.80 s faster.
In terms of top speed, the BMW X3 performs clearly perceptible better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Renault Rafale tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 70 km/h.
Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In curb weight, Renault Rafale is slightly lighter – 1734 kg compared to 1930 kg. The difference is around 196 kg.
In terms of boot space, the Renault Rafale offers barely noticeable more room – 627 L compared to 570 L. That’s a difference of about 57 L.
In maximum load capacity, the Renault Rafale performs a bit better – up to 1910 L, which is about 210 L more than the BMW X3.
When it comes to payload, BMW X3 evident takes the win – 570 kg compared to 444 kg. That’s a difference of about 126 kg.
The Renault Rafale proves to be wins the duel decisively and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Renault Rafale is the better all-rounder in this comparison.
@ Renault Group Media
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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@ BMW Group Press
@ BMW Group Press
@ BMW Group Press
@ BMW Group Press
@ BMW Group Press
The Renault Rafale dresses bold coupé-inspired lines around a practical crossover body, turning heads without trying too hard. Inside it serves up a comfortable, well-equipped cabin and engaging driving manners, making it a clever choice for buyers who want a bit of panache with their daily commute.
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@ Renault Group Media
@ Renault Group Media
@ Renault Group Media
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@ BMW Group Press
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@ Renault Group Media
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
51300 - 72400 £
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Price
37500 - 49500 £
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Consumption L/100km
2.8 - 7.7 L
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Consumption L/100km
0.6 - 5 L
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
88 km
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Electric Range
97 km
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Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
64 - 175 g/km
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co2
14 - 109 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
50 - 65 L
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Fuel tank capacity
55 L
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
SUV
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
5
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Doors
5
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Curb weight
1930 - 2140 kg
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Curb weight
1734 - 2025 kg
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Trunk capacity
460 - 570 L
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Trunk capacity
539 - 627 L
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Length
4755 mm
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Length
4710 mm
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Width
1920 mm
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Width
1886 mm
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Height
1660 mm
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Height
1613 mm
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Max trunk capacity
1600 - 1700 L
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Max trunk capacity
1826 - 1910 L
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Payload
570 kg
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Payload
415 - 444 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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|---|---|
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
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Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Full Hybrid
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
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Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
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Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
197 - 398 HP
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Power HP
200 - 300 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.6 - 7.8 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.4 - 8.9 s
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Max Speed
215 - 250 km/h
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Max Speed
180 km/h
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Torque
330 - 670 Nm
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Torque
-
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Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
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Number of Cylinders
3
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Power kW
145 - 293 kW
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Power kW
147 - 221 kW
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Engine capacity
1995 - 2998 cm3
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Engine capacity
1199 cm3
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General |
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|---|---|
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
F, E, B
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CO2 Efficiency Class
B, C
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Brand
BMW
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Brand
Renault
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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.
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