2025 BMW X3 vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was a more rugged alternative to the CX-5, with a design that emphasized its broad-shouldered proportions. It was lower, wider, and longer than its sibling, featuring square wheel arches and faux air vents. The CX-50 came in eight trim levels, with the 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition standing out for its active-lifestyle image, all-terrain tires, and earthy color palette. The interior was well-designed, with a BMW-like infotainment screen and impressive material quality for a non-luxury brand. However, the CX-50's aspirations to be more upscale were not fully realized, as it still had some features reminiscent of its mainstream roots.

In contrast, the 2025 BMW X3 was seductive in appearance, with a long hood and athletic proportions. The test model's Arctic Race Blue paint and 21-inch wheels emphasized its sporty look. Inside, the X3 featured a simple yet spacious cabin with a BMW Curved Display and quality materials. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats were less so, with complaints about the hard front seat-back panels. The cargo area was practical, with a lightweight cover and additional storage under the load floor. Overall, the X3 offered a more luxurious and spacious interior compared to the CX-50.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbo version delivered up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, along with Normal, Sport, and Off-road driving modes. The CX-50 was a competent daily driver, but its handling was less engaging than the CX-5, and the all-terrain tires on the Meridian Edition added noise and reduced grip.

The 2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Despite its weight, the X3 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in six seconds, thanks to its eight-speed automatic transmission and xDrive AWD system. The X3 also had a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for improved responsiveness. For more power, the M50 xDrive offered a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 393 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque, achieving 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The X3's performance was impressive, with a fun driving experience on twisty roads, although the sport-tuned suspension made for a firm ride.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 had similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom. It offered 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 56.3 cubic feet with them folded. While the CX-50 trailed competitors in cargo space, it had a power liftgate for easier access. The interior layout was sensible, with adequate storage space and a substantial shifter and rotary infotainment controller on the center console.

The 2025 BMW X3 provided a spacious and comfortable interior, with power-adjustable front seats and a wide dashboard featuring the BMW Curved Display. The cargo area measured 31.5 cubic feet and included a lightweight cover, netted storage, and a temporary spare tire. The rear seats were less comfortable, with complaints about the hard front seat-back panels. Overall, the X3 offered a more luxurious and spacious interior compared to the CX-50.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, controlled by a rotary controller and buttons. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay, but Android Auto required a cable. Higher trims included wireless phone charging, SiriusXM, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The infotainment system was straightforward but felt dated, making it suitable for buyers who preferred simplicity.

The 2025 BMW X3 featured the BMW Curved Display with iDrive 9 software, offering a user-friendly experience with Quick Select menus. However, creating profiles and accessing BMW Digital Services proved challenging during testing. The system occasionally froze, but wireless Apple CarPlay worked flawlessly. Despite the issues, the X3's infotainment system had potential, with features like augmented video navigation and a digital voice assistant.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. However, it received a "Basic" score for nighttime pedestrian detection. NHTSA ratings were incomplete, but the CX-50 had a five-star frontal crash-test rating. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, with optional rear automatic braking and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2025 BMW X3's driver assistance features were more rewarding than its infotainment system. The standard Active Driving Assistant suite included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Premium Package added adaptive cruise control and Parking Assistant Plus, while the Driving Assistant Professional Package offered hands-free Traffic Jam Assistant and Lane Change Assistant. The X3 earned a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four-star ratings for frontal-impact crash tests.