VS
At a Glance
Power
255hp @ 4700
278hp @ 6000
Torque
295lb-ft @ 1600
317lb-ft @ 1700
Fuel
30 mpg est.
—
Towing
4001lbs
6000lbs
Engine
2.0 L/122ci
2.4 L/146ci
Choosing between the BMW X3 and the Toyota 4runner is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The BMW X3 delivers 255hp @ 4700 while the Toyota 4runner produces 278hp @ 6000. Pricing starts at $49,950 for the X3 and $55,910 for the 4runner. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Specification
BMW X330 xDrive Sports Activity Vehicle 2025 - From $49,950
Toyota 4runnerTRD Sport Premium 4WD (Natl) 2026 - From $55,910
Performance
Power Output (hp)
255hp @ 4700
278hp @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft)
295lb-ft @ 1600
317lb-ft @ 1700
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.0 L/122ci
2.4 L/146ci
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
—
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
8
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
Four Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy (Combined, est.)
30 mpg est.
—
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
27mpg
—
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
33mpg
—
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
17.2gal
19gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
187.2in
194.9in
Width (in)
75.6in
77.9in
Height (in)
65.4in
73.1in
Wheelbase (in)
112.8in
112.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4176lbs
4850lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
4001lbs
6000lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
—
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Toyota 4runner
2 / 4 categories
Performance
4runner
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
X3
Practicality
4runner
Pros & Cons
BMW X3
Lower starting price ($49,950)
Few notable weaknesses
Toyota 4runner
Higher towing capacity (6000lbs)
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the X3 or 4runner?
The X3 produces 255hp @ 4700 and 295lb-ft @ 1600 of torque while the 4runner delivers 278hp @ 6000 and 317lb-ft @ 1700 of torque. The 4runner is the more powerful option.
What is the price difference between the X3 and 4runner?
The X3 starts from $49,950 and the 4runner from $55,910. The X3 is cheaper by $5,960 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the X3 or 4runner?
The X3 has a braked towing capacity of 4001lbs and the 4runner can tow 6000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the X3 or the 4runner?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.