Compare BMW and Mercedes diesel engines.

What is the power output of the BMW X3 1,997cc engine? How do you think it compares with the Mercedes-Benz 2,054cc unit?

Denis O Riordan (Dub)

Jul 2016 Filed under: diesel

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Expert answer

Hi Denis,

It depends which model you mean. The X3 18d has 150hp, while the X3 20d (using the same basic engine) has 190hp. It’s a grand engine (and seems to have gotten over its tendency to throw the timing chain) and really nice to drive, but a touch noisy at times. The same goes for the Merc alternative, which comes in 140hp, 170hp and 204hp forms. Good and frugal, but noisy. Right now, Audi has the best engine in the class, with its updated 150hp and 190hp 2.0-litre TDI unit, with Volvo’s D4 190hp in a very close second.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor
@neilmbriscoe