Adapted engineering that has won these brands countless races is what makes up your everyday SUV. Since racing DNA flows freely through your luxury performance SUV, you’ll find you’re in for a commute unlike any other.

With historic similarities, it’s no surprise that the Porsche Macan and the BMW X3 share many performance specs, including their number of engines. Additionally, their standard 2.0L turbo engines churn out similar capabilities. Still, you’ll see that engine size means less than capability since the standard engine of the Porsche dominates its rival.

	Porsche Macan	BMW X3
Engine	2.0L 4-cylinder turbo	2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder
Horsepower	261	248
Torque	295 lb-ft	258 lb-ft
Acceleration (0 to 60 MPH)	6.0 seconds	6.0 seconds
Top Speed	144 MPH	130 MPH

Along with similar standard engines, they both also display comparable towing capacities. If you go with the Porsche, it tows a maximum of 4,409 pounds when properly equipped. The BMW tows up to 4,400 pounds when properly configured.

The Porsche Macan and the BMW X3 allow you to customize how your SUV handles. There are several ways you can tailor how your vehicle performs, but selecting a performance package is one of the most popular options.

The BMW X3 comes optionally with the M Sports Package. When selected, this package adds design elements like mesh inserts in the grille, black exterior accents, and your choice of 19-, 20-, or 21-inch wheels.

Porsche Macan drivers can select the available Sport Chrono Package. That being said, this package does much more than make your Macan look sporty—it actually delivers thanks to features like Launch Control and the sport response button. The former ensures optimal start time from a standstill while the latter maximizes engine response time for 20 seconds.

There’s a chance other drivers will cower in your presence on the road. They’ll promptly change lanes when they see the aggressive front fascia approaching in their rearview mirror. This intimidation tactic is part of the design and fun of driving the Macan or the X3.

Some of the performance-inspired design features of Macan you’ll love include:

• 3D textured exterior elements
• Leather upholstery with optional contrast stitching or color accents
• Central tachometer for easy view of performance data
• Analog clock to symbolize the timelessness of this performance model

While the X3 comes with its own collection of performance-inspired design elements, it falls short in comparison to the Macan since it doesn’t come standard with leather upholstery and has no timeless features like you’ll find in the Macan.

Three-zone automatic climate control is found standard with the Macan and the X3. This allows you and your passengers to independently set and adjust your individual preferred temperature settings as you travel for a more fine-tuned comfort experience.

While this feature is found with both SUVs, you’ll find more diversity comes your way with the Porsche. Heated front seats come standard, and you’ll enjoy optional ventilation in the front seats to help provide near-instant cooling when needed. If you’re considering the BMW, all these features are optional.

Three different types of seats can be selected for the visibility and comfort you need in the Macan:

• Standard 8-way comfort seats
• Available 14-way seats
• Available 18-way adaptive Sport Seats

Only one set of standard power front seats can be found in the X3.

Apple CarPlay® integration is found standard on both SUVs, but only the Porsche includes wireless connectivity, eliminating the need for cords or wires. Unfortunately, you’ll have to use a cord to pair your phone to the BMW.

For the different levels of music lover, the Porsche provides three audio systems. Maybe you’re a casual fan or just can’t get enough of blasting your tunes. Either way, the Macan has you covered:

• Standard 10-speaker Sound Package Plus
• Available 14-speaker BOSE® Surround Sound-System
• Available 16-speaker Burmester® High-End Surround Sound-System

The BMW gives you two available systems: the standard 12-speaker HiFi Sound System and the optional 16-speaker Harman Kardon Surround Sound Audio System. With more audio system options in the Porsche, you’ll be able to find the sweet spot of your listening experience.

Beyond entertainment features, the Macan and the X3 are equipped with driver-assist technology to help you feel totally confident behind the wheel. Cameras and sensors constantly monitor a range around your vehicle and alert you to potential hazards you may have missed.

Features like Lane Keeping Assist are found standard with both SUVs, and you’ll have your fair share of parking support with each one, too.

A Surround View system, dynamic guidelines, and self-steering into suitable parking spaces are all optional with the Macan and the X3. Thanks to these features, you’ll become the parking pro of your friend group with the simple touch of a button!