VS
At a Glance
Power
255hp @ 4700
285hp @ 6100
Torque
295lb-ft @ 1600
262lb-ft @ 5000
Towing
4001lbs
5000lbs
Engine
2.0 L/122cc
3.5 L/212cc
Choosing between the BMW X3 and the Honda Pilot is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The BMW X3 delivers 255hp @ 4700 while the Honda Pilot produces 285hp @ 6100. Pricing starts at $50,900 for the X3 and $50,395 for the Pilot. 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.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
255hp @ 4700
285hp @ 6100
Torque (lb-ft)
295lb-ft @ 1600
262lb-ft @ 5000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.0 L/122cc
3.5 L/212cc
Engine Layout
—
V
Cylinders
4
6
Fuel Type
—
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
—
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
27mpg
18 (Est)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
33mpg
23 (Est)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
17.2gal
18.5gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
187.2in
200.4in
Width (in)
75.6in
78.5in
Height (in)
65.4in
72in
Wheelbase (in)
112.8in
113.8in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4176lbs
4722lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
4001lbs
5000lbs
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
✓ 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
Honda Pilot
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Pilot
Practicality
Pilot
Pros & Cons
BMW X3
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Honda Pilot
Lower starting price ($50,395)
Higher towing capacity (5000lbs)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the X3 or Pilot?
The X3 produces 255hp @ 4700 and 295lb-ft @ 1600 of torque while the Pilot delivers 285hp @ 6100 and 262lb-ft @ 5000 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the X3 and Pilot?
The X3 starts from $50,900 and the Pilot from $50,395. The Pilot is cheaper by $505 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the X3 or Pilot?
The X3 has a braked towing capacity of 4001lbs and the Pilot can tow 5000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the X3 or the Pilot?
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.