BMW X3 vs Lexus GX
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 GX opens at $119,950. That makes the BMW X3 the more affordable entry point by $33,850.
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 $131,945 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BMW X3 by roughly $4,560 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the BMW X3 and Lexus GX hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The BMW X3 packs more ADAS features with 5 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 4 in the Lexus GX.
Both include the essentials: lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. The Lexus GX adds a 360-degree camera that the BMW X3 misses.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW X3 stands out with Harman Kardon audio that you will not find on the Lexus GX. The Lexus GX counters with head-up display, heated front seats, ventilated seats and power tailgate. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
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 GX responds with a Petrol making 262kW and 650Nm, paired to a 10-speed auto driving the rear wheels.
The Lexus GX has the clear power advantage at 262kW vs 150kW. 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, 200mm shorter than the Lexus GX at 4,955mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW X3 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 570L in the BMW X3 and 390L in the Lexus GX, giving the BMW X3 a 180L advantage. The Lexus GX seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Lexus GX leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 2,500kg. That 1,000kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.1m diameter
Large
Based on 12.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,938/year for the BMW X3 and $2,850/year for the Lexus GX. That is a $912 annual difference in favour of the BMW X3.
Estimated annual total: $1,938 (BMW X3) vs $2,850 (Lexus GX). The BMW X3 saves you roughly $912 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (BMW X3) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus GX). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW X3 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus GX if: You prioritise performance, need stronger towing, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BMW X3 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The BMW X3 will save you roughly $912 a year in fuel. 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 GX?
The BMW X3 is the cheapest at $86,100 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Lexus GX by $33,850.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The BMW X3 uses the least fuel at 6.8L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — BMW X3 and Lexus GX 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 Lexus GX has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Lexus GX makes the most power at 262kW.
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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