BMW X3 vs Lexus RZ
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The BMW X3 starts from $86,100 before on-road costs, while the Lexus RZ opens at $91,000. That makes the BMW X3 the more affordable entry point by $4,900.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $94,710 and $100,100 respectively.
The Lexus RZ qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The BMW X3, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The BMW X3 features a 14.9-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Lexus RZ gets a 14-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW X3 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging and Bowers & Wilkins audio that you will not find on the Lexus RZ. The Lexus RZ counters with Apple CarPlay, head-up display, heated front seats, power tailgate, V2L and Mark Levinson audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the BMW X3 gets merino leather upholstery while the Lexus RZ offers synthetic leather. Climate control is 4-zone in the BMW X3 and 2-zone in the Lexus RZ.
Drivetrain
The BMW X3 uses a Petrol producing 150kW and 310Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 6 seconds.
The Lexus RZ responds with a Electric Motor making 230kW and 435Nm, paired to a automatic. It gets to 100km/h in 5 seconds.
The Lexus RZ has the clear power advantage at 230kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the Lexus RZ is 1.0s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The BMW X3 measures 4,755mm long on a 2,865mm wheelbase, 50mm shorter than the Lexus RZ at 4,805mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW X3 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 570L in the BMW X3 and 522L in the Lexus RZ, giving the BMW X3 a 48L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m to 12.1m
Based on 12.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (BMW X3) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus RZ). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW X3 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus RZ if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Lexus RZ takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the BMW X3 has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, BMW X3 and Lexus RZ?
The BMW X3 is the cheapest at $86,100 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Lexus RZ by $4,900.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The BMW X3 uses the least fuel at 7.5L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Lexus RZ all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The BMW X3 has the largest boot at 570L.
Which can tow the most?
The BMW X3 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Lexus RZ makes the most power at 230kW. The Lexus RZ is quickest to 100km/h in 5s.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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