How to Choose the Right BMW SUV for You?

The SUV/Crossover trend shows no signs of slowing down globally, with elevated cars increasingly dominating the market over sedans. More contemporary and versatile designs have given rise to the popularity of high-riding vehicles.

Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) have also helped elevate SUVs, improving their handling performance compared to their low-riding counterparts. This suggests that the SUV segment will likely continue to flourish, with even sports-oriented brands like BMW jumping on the bandwagon. The X Series, in particular, is gaining traction.

Alongside Audi’s Q Series and Mercedes-Benz’s GL Series, BMW’s X Series has become a force to be reckoned with in the luxury SUV market. It offers a diverse range of options, from small to large vehicles and classic to fashionable coupe SUVs. BMW aims to cater to a wide range of customers with its extensive selection.

BMW X3 – A Strategic Contender

A few years ago, the Mercedes-Benz GLC almost dominated the luxury compact SUV segment in Vietnam. However, the game seems to have changed with BMW’s locally assembled X3, offering more competitive pricing and a design that outshines the now-familiar GLC.

With local assembly, the BMW X3 is available in three variants: sDrive20i, sDrive20i M Sport, and xDrive30i M Sport. The starting price is VND 1.795 billion. It’s equipped with a 2.0L TwinPower Turbo engine (B46 code), paired with an 8-speed Steptronic sports automatic transmission and either rear-wheel or BMW xDrive all-wheel drive. It delivers 184-245 horsepower and 300-350 Nm of torque, depending on the variant.

The BMW X3 is highly regarded for its performance, boasting an excellent chassis and suspension system, complemented by its compact body. This was evident during test drives on Vietnam’s mountainous roads, where the X3 showcased its capabilities with precise and confident cornering, ample power, and a sense of safety.

However, one shouldn’t expect ample space or luxurious interiors in the X3. It offers a sufficient, simple, and user-friendly cabin. The driver-assistance technologies are basic and don’t stand out compared to those in similarly priced rivals or luxury competitors.

In summary, the BMW X3 is ideal for those who enjoy driving a quick, powerful, and nimble vehicle that still provides a comfortable ride and adequate amenities for the family. Its pricing is a significant advantage, especially considering the features it offers.

Currently, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 AMG 4Matic, priced at VND 2.799 billion, is the X3’s main rival in Vietnam. Other competitors include the Lexus NX350 F-Sport (VND 3.13 billion), Audi Q5 (starting at VND 2.299 billion), and Volvo XC60 (starting at VND 2.32 billion).

BMW X5 and X7 – Formidable Challengers

Similar to how the GLC once dominated the Vietnamese market, the Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLS are often considered the go-to choices in the large luxury SUV segment. However, the BMW X5 and X7 are game-changers in this arena.

Design is arguably the first strength of the X5 and X7. Both models exude a more elegant and refined appearance compared to their less distinctive competitors.

BMW has also paid more attention to luxury in these two models compared to the X3. The BMW X5 features a curved BMW Display duo, consisting of a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central infotainment screen. It also boasts a Walknappa leather-wrapped dashboard, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and a crystal-adorned Start/Stop button and gear lever.

The central control panel includes a crystal Start/Stop button and a gear lever. The X5 also comes with a panoramic sunroof, Vernasca leather seats with memory function in the front, and reclining and folding capabilities in the second row.

The BMW X7, on the other hand, boasts a curved display duo, with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster behind the steering wheel and a 14.9-inch central infotainment screen. The X7’s interior features premium materials such as leather, Fineline wood trim, and black Piano and Chrome accents. The central control panel features a crystal iDrive knob and a crystal gear lever.

All three rows of seats in the BMW X7 are upholstered in high-quality Merino BMW Individual leather, electrically adjustable, and equipped with sunroofs and air vents for each row.

Additionally, the playful designs of the X4 and X6 may be too distinctive for some, as many luxury SUV buyers prefer a more understated look. This means that while the X4 and X6 will have their dedicated fan base, they may not achieve the same level of mainstream popularity as the X3 or X5.

In Vietnam, the BMW X4 xDrive20i M Sport LCI is priced at VND 2.899 billion, competing with the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe, which costs VND 3.089 billion. Meanwhile, the BMW X6 xDrive40i M Sport is priced at VND 3.799 billion and goes up against the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, starting at VND 4.849 billion.

Both the BMW X4 and X6 are equipped with an 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. However, the X4 features a 2.0L TwinPower Turbo engine with four inline cylinders, producing 184 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque, while the X6 boasts a more powerful 3.0L TwinPower Turbo engine, delivering 340 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque.

In conclusion, with its extensive X Series lineup, BMW is well-positioned to become a dominant force in the luxury SUV market. However, the competition is fierce, with Mercedes-Benz still holding the largest market share, and Audi making significant investments for future growth. The luxury SUV segment, in particular, is witnessing one of the most exciting battles in the Vietnamese automotive market, providing customers with an ever-growing array of enticing choices.