Blog

2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Vs. 2023 BMW X3 — Which One Is Better?

side view of 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio and BMW X3Both Alfa Romeo and BMW are known for delivering upscale vehicle models in the market. These luxury car brands promise efficiency, performance, intricate detailing and modern styling with their diverse model lineup. One of the recent additions to the Alfa Romeo family is the 2023 Stelvio — a good-looking compact SUV paired with dozens of state-of-the-art features. Due to its natural agility, wide range of technological innovations and remarkable performance capabilities, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio shares a close competition with the 2023 BMW X3, having somewhat similar features. If you’re looking to buy a small-size SUV but not sure which one is the best for you, follow along as the experienced product specialists at Alfa Romeo Ottawa have broken down the major differences between both these luxury SUVs based on their engine performance, technological amenities, styling and more to help you find your perfect match. 

[READ MORE: 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Vs. 2023 Audi Q5 Sportback Comparison]

Engine Capabilities 

Specifications 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio 2023 BMW X3
Engine Type 2.0L Turbocharged I4 engine 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Engine
Horsepower 280 248
Torque (lb-ft) 306 258
Transmission 8-speed automatic 8-speed Steptronic Sport

All the trim levels of the 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio (except for Quadrifoglio) come standard with the 2.0-litre turbocharged I4 engine. This highly efficient engine produces 280 horsepower and 306 pound-feet of torque, delivering a sturdy, powerful performance on different road surfaces. This compact SUV is paired with a DNA Mode Selector with different driving modes (Dynamic, Natural and Advanced Efficiency) to let you customize all your rides for better engine performance, fuel economy, transmission, steering response and speed. For a race track-inspired performance, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio comes exclusively with the Race Mode. This compact SUV also features an advanced Q4 all-wheel drive system to offer optimum traction and control over challenging road conditions. 

In contrast, the 2023 BMW X3 rides on a 2.0-litre TwinPower engine, outputting 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Like the Stelvio, the BMW X3 also features an intelligent all-wheel drive system for a smooth drive over tricky terrains. The other engine option available with the BMW X3 is the 3.0-litre six-cylinder, whose efficiency and power are lesser than what the 2.9-litre V6-cylinder engine of the Stelvio Quadrifoglio produces. 

Design 

With detailed craftsmanship and a wide pool of impressive design features, the 2023 Stelvio always impresses the bystanders. The carbon-fibre craftsmanship adds significantly to the durability, agility and performance of the compact SUV. Its near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution improves handling and braking. The Stelvio Estrema comes with exclusive badging and striking dark accents, exuding dominance. On the inside, the 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio promises top-tier luxury and comfort with its different convenience systems and intricate styling. To continue its epic racing heritage, the Stelvio is also available in red or black sports performance seats with perforated panels in a ribbed design. 

The 2023 BMW X3 also promises luxury with its subtle and sophisticated exterior styling accompanied by different head-turning features like an LED lighting group, a wide range of exterior paint colours and multiple wheel options. Compared to the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, the BMW X3 dons a traditional design with limited innovation. Its look is inspired mainly by its predecessors, which often fails to impress onlookers. Moreover, the interior of the BMW X3 is also not as luxurious as its competitors in the market, especially the Stelvio. 

Technological Features and Safety Systems 

The 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio promises the ultimate experience with the available Harman Kardon Premium System, featuring a high-powered amplifier and 14 speakers. It promises you seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity to let you enjoy a vast music library, online podcasts, online radio streaming and more. You also get the 8.8-inch multi-touch display to tailor your driving preferences as desired. The 2023 BMW X3 impresses everyone aboard with its standard 10.25-inch central information display. It also offers easy connectivity to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems to give you a comprehensive driving experience. 

In terms of safety, both these SUVs keep you safe against potential on-road threats with their vast array of safety features and driver assistance technologies. The 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio comes standard with the following safety features:

  • Lane Keep Assist 
  • Intelligent Speed Control 
  • Highway and Traffic Jam Assist 
  • Driver Attention Alert 
  • Forward Collision Warning with Full Stop 
  • Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path Detection 
  • Front and Rear Park Assist 
  • Active Blind Spot Assist 

Final Verdict 

If you need more power, efficiency and performance, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio should be your go-to option. This new-age SUV is packed with modern technologies to promise an intuitive experience. On the other hand, the BMW X3 also offers the same level of comfort, as well as luxury but its traditional design and limited innovations may not impress buyers looking for a future-forward vehicle. To learn more about the 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, visit Alfa Romeo Ottawa to get in touch with our team of experienced automotive professionals.