When I drove the BMW X3 M for the first time, the first car comparison that came to mind was the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio. That was the car that the X3 M reminded me of most and not just on paper. While they’re similar on paper, they have a similar brutality that isn’t typically seen in SUVs. even performance ones. But the real question is: which one is better? Auto Express finds out.
Before we take a look at which one AE liked better, let’s check the specs. The BMW X3 M Competition uses a 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine with 510 PS (503 hp) and 442 lb-ft of torque. While the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio uses a 2.9 liter twin-turbocharged V6 that makes 505 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. They both use eight-speed ZF-sourced automatics and are both all-wheel drive. See? Similar.
They’re also both rated at around 4.0 seconds to 60 mph. However, independent tests have clocked both cars to be quicker than that, with the Stelvio being the quicker of the two, typically.
But which one is actually better to drive? According to Auto Express, it’s the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifolgio. Both cars handle extremely well, ride extremely harshly and are remarkably quick. Where the BMW X3 M Competition edges the Alfa is inside. Its cabin is significantly better. However, where the Stelvio bests the BMW X3 M is in its handling. While they’re both highly capable machines, the Alfa is said to be the more enjoyable, more energetic of the two.
Having driven both, I can see that. The BMW X3 M is a fantastic car and one that I like quite a bit. But there’s a seriousness to it that can’t match the Alfa’s enthusiasm. What’s funny is that, compared to the rest of the BMW lineup, the X3 M is a hilarious and entertaining car. But compared to the ever-so-charming Alfa, the big Bimmer is second place.
[Source: Auto Express]
I lol’d when they said the Alfa would depreciate less, Wtf this is such a blatant paid review
Nobody wants a used Alfa…they barely want a new one due to reliability history…so yeah totally agree with you…maybe book value will be better but in reality dealers wont give you that book value
Respectfully, I think your comments about Alfa Romeo are outdated;
1. Autoexpress magazine from the UK conduct an annual survey of best cars to own. In 2019, the 18,000 survey respondents with cars 0 to 3 years of age, showed the Gulia came in 3rd, just behind Lexus and Toyota. Have a look where BMW came, its not pretty. As for the C-class, 2nd last. Yes, there are highly publicised car magazines highlighting their problems with their Gulias with the 1st generation just released cars, however once the software update came through, not one problem. Motor Trend ran a Guilia for a year and didn’t have one single issue.
2. Buying a used Alfa Guilia that is 2 or 3 years old is actually an astute way to get into arguably the best drivers sedan in the market. Many financially astute individuals relish the chance to buy a car for half price.
Sorry – I am being harsh, but Alfa Romeos $5 billion investment deserves better. Their lack of sales is caused by a number of reasons, one of which are outdated stereotypes.
if you read what i said you would understand what i mean …they have a bad HISTORY in terms of reliability im not saying they are anymore but that stereotype got stuck with the brand
If by “ever-so-charming” they mean “always in the shop” then yes, very charming.
Respectfully, I think your comments about Alfa Romeo are outdated;
1. Autoexpress magazine from the UK conduct an annual survey of best cars to own. In 2019, the 18,000 survey respondents with cars 0 to 3 years of age, showed the Gulia came in 3rd, just behind Lexus and Toyota. Have a look where BMW came, its not pretty. As for the C-class, 2nd last. Yes, there are highly publicised car magazines highlighting their problems with their Gulias with the 1st generation just released cars, however once the software update came through, not one problem. Motor Trend ran a Guilia for a year and didn’t have one single issue.
Sorry – I am being harsh, but Alfa Romeos $5 billion investment deserves better. Their lack of sales is caused by a number of reasons, one of which are outdated stereotypes.
Fair enough. I’m glad to hear somebody defend it because it’s an amazing vehicle. I hope you are right and they’ve turned the corner on reliability.
Looks like Alpha finished second to LAST so I guess I’m not ready to believe they have turned the corner.
https://www.consumerreports.org/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars/
I would still take X3M as it’s just as charming in terms of handling, if not more. Plus the X3M looks handsome as well as mature and not like the fat toad that’s called the Stelvio. The X3M does offer the whole package. Alfa’s own Giulia is way more sexier than the Stelvio if anything. Add on top of that, Alfas depreciate less? Really? In what dimension?