BMW X3 vs Honda HR-V

BMW offers the 2026 X3 in two flavors: 30 xDrive and M50. The latter is tuned for performance, but the base X3 30 xDrive is so good that you might be happy trading the M50’s outright speed and sheer capability for significant savings. BMW redesigned this compact luxury crossover in 2025, and the only tweaks for 2026 make the base model look and feel a little more upscale inside.

Verdict: For this review, we evaluated the BMW X3 M50. It was terrific, but with a sticker price more than $15,000 higher than the rewarding X3 30 xDrive, it’s hard to justify the extra money.

Available in three trim levels equipped with an underpowered engine and optional all-wheel drive (AWD), the HR-V is an unremarkable subcompact SUV. A refresh for the 2026 model year adds an improved standard infotainment system and minor styling and interior modifications, but nothing that addresses this model’s primary shortcomings. The changes include a larger touchscreen with faster response times, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless smartphone charging.

Verdict: Simply put, the 2026 HR-V is not one of the best subcompact SUVs. It is dreadfully slow, disappointingly inefficient, and barely meets the minimum technological expectations of the young people who might want to buy it. Plus, it demonstrates none of the innovation seen in the original HR-V and in some competitors in the small SUV segment.