SHOWDOWN: Compact Luxury SUVs Side-By-Side -- BMW X1 vs. Audi Q3

You know it isn't until you see two vehicles side-by-side that you realize how similar they are. Don't get me wrong, the X1 and Q3 each have their own look and feel; however, when you look at the interiors, you may have to do a double take to tell which is a BMW and which is an Audi.

Additionally, when you get a look at their specifications, there isn't much differentiation. Their dimensions and interior volumes are only marginally different and there is only 11 pounds separating the two.

Now, take all of that and make sure to see the side-by-side shots of the new BMW X1 and all-new 2012 Audi Q3 by clicking "Read Article."

Audi's all new Q3 has just been released, which was not unexpected considering Audi has a vehicle in every segment that BMW has one.

The new Q3 is certainly aesthetically pleasing, but when I first saw it, I didn't have a strong reaction one way or the other. I think that is a function of the fact that like most Audis today, it is fairly similar to every other Audi product, especially the Q5. So while it's not ugly, it is a bit booring to me...

[Source: xbimmers]

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internationalmanofmystery - 4/15/2011 9:10:21 AM

0 Boost

When comparing TWO things, it is the largER not largEST!

0to60 - 4/15/2011 10:45:29 AM

+1 Boost

Premium, yes. Luxury, no. Audi looks better, BMW drives better

dumpsty - 4/15/2011 11:45:31 AM

+1 Boost

Agreed. Though I know the X1 is a wonderful road vehicle, the styling isn't all that spectacular for a "smaller" version of the X3. I though when you took designs to a smaller scale, it would be easier to throw-in some of the fun little creases & curves to make the "little guy" look a bit more interesting. The X1 in styling is a bit "ho-hum" wrt other cheaper small SUVs and wagons.

I think BMW put much of its design uniqueness/quarkiness in the MINI brand which leaves the smaller BMW model lines looking fairly bland. Is BMW now building these small vehicles to balance out production capacity for other projects for its subsidiaries?

sdcarguy - 4/15/2011 2:23:26 PM

-2 Boost

Range Rover Evoque trumps both. (IFF the quality is there.)

0to60 - 4/15/2011 4:23:07 PM

+1 Boost

do they even come close to competing? Like comparing a CRV to an Explorer.