2021 Volvo XC60 vs. 2021 BMW X3: Head to Head Comparison
Refined strength and sleek lines combine in the 2021 Volvo XC60 and 2021 BMW X3. Both five-passenger luxury vehicles are crafted to accommodate long ski poles or furniture when the rear seats are folded. The XC60 is considered a crossover SUV, while the X3 is called a sport activity vehicle, or SAV. Each model is paired with a 2.0L four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive (AWD), perfect for drives in any weather conditions. For more details on each of these vehicles, examine the following XC60 vs. X3 guide created by the team at McLaughlin Volvo Cars.
If you'd like to learn more about the 2021 XC60, explore our XC60 models for sale in Moline, IL, and consider our intriguing XC60 offer. If you have any questions, please contact our Volvo Cars dealership in the Quad Cities region by phone at (866) 982-1024.
To make comparison easier, we have matched the 2021 Volvo XC60 Momentum, which starts at $47,500 MSRP, against the 2021 BMW X3 xDrive30i, which has a starting MSRP of $45,000.

2021 Volvo XC60 vs. 2021 BMW X3Power & Handling
Both the 2021 Volvo XC60 and 2021 BMW X3 have spirited engines under the hood that produce similar fuel efficiency ratings. However, because the XC60 engine is supercharged and turbocharged, the horsepower and torque specifications are significantly higher than the X3 performance figures.
Volvo XC60 Momentum
Engine | T6 2.0L I4 turbocharged, supercharged |
---|---|
Horsepower | 316 HP |
Torque | 295 lb.-ft. |
MPG (city/hwy) | 20/27 |
Drivetrain | AWD |
BMW X3 xDrive30
Engine | 2.0L BMW TwinPower Turbo I4 |
---|---|
Horsepower | 248 HP |
Torque | 258 lb.-ft. |
MPG (city/hwy) | 25/29 |
Drivetrain | Intelligent AWD |

2021 Volvo XC60 vs. 2021 BMW X3Interior
Run your fingers over glamorous textures no matter which vehicle you drive. The 2021 Volvo XC60 has sleek leather upholstery covering the seats and strategically-placed retro Linear Lime wood inlays. The BMW X3 greets your skin with plush SensaTec upholstery and your eyes with alluring Dark Oak wood trim. Other XC60 interior accommodations include:
- Panoramic sunroof with power operation
- Dual zone electronic climate control
- Power adjustable front seats with two-way power lumbar
- Driver's seat with memory settings
- Comfort seat padding

2021 Volvo XC60 vs. 2021 BMW X3Exterior
The exterior finishes on the 2021 Volvo XC60 and 2021 BMW X3 are striking and polished. Both models are equipped with 18-inch wheels bearing y-spoke patterns, which are silver alloy on the XC60. Light up your nighttime commute home to your loved ones with the LED headlights built into both vehicles. Additional XC60 exterior features include:
- Power operated trunk lid
- Color coordinated rearview mirrors
- Tinted windows
- Dual visible tailpipes with chrome sleeves
Still Have Questions?
2021 Volvo XC60 vs. 2021 BMW X3Dimensions
Designed to fit five people or hold kayak paddles with the seats down, the 2021 Volvo XC60 and BMW X3 are spacious vehicles with similar dimensions. View the following table for key specifications.
Volvo XC60
Passenger Capacity | Five |
---|---|
Cargo Capacity | 63.6 cu.-ft. |
Length | 184.6 in. |
Width | 74.9 in. |
Height | 65.3 in. |
BMW X3
Passenger Capacity | Five |
---|---|
Cargo Capacity | 62.7 cu.-ft. |
Length | 185.9 in. |
Width | 74.4 in. |
Height | 66 in. |
2021 Volvo XC60 vs. 2021 BMW X3Technology
Incorporate top technology features into your daily drive regardless of whether you choose the 2021 Volvo XC60 or 2021 BMW X3. Both can use Apple CarPlay® to connect to their infotainment systems for an easy music-listening experience. If you're looking for additional radio channels, these models also both offer SiriusXM® Satellite Radio. Other key XC60 technology features include:
- Android Auto™
- High performance sound system
- 12.3-in. digital driver display
- Bluetooth®


2021 Volvo XC60 vs. 2021 BMW X3Safety
Maintain your sense of calm and confidence when you utilize the driver assist features available on each of these 2021 vehicles. Both are designed to alert you if you appear to be attempting to leave your lane prematurely, known as the lane keeping aid on the XC60 and lane departure warning on the X3. And you can rest assured that you'll be able to call on emergency services at a moment's notice with Volvo On Call or BMW Assist eCall™. Additional XC60 safety features include:
- Collision mitigation support
- Blind spot information system with cross traffic alert
- Park assist camera
- Hill descent control
- Inflatable curtains
- SIPS airbags
- Whiplash protection for the front seats