DecodedCarsBMW 3 Series vs Lexus UX
2026 BMW 3 Series vs 2026 Lexus UX — two compact cars compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
The Lexus UX is more fuel-efficient: 43 vs 31 MPG combined in its best version.
That works out to about $1,100 a year less in fuel for the Lexus UX (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
The BMW 3 Series is the bigger car, about 8 inches longer.
The two cars
The 2026 BMW 3 Series is a compact car offered with 2 engines (2.0L 4-cyl turbo and 3.0L 6-cyl turbo), including a hybrid version and rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. It measures about 185 inches long and 72 inches wide on a 112-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,494 lb (3-Series 330i Xdrive 4dr Sedan).
The 2026 Lexus UX is a compact car offered with a 2.0L 4-cyl engine, including a hybrid version and front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. It measures about 177 inches long and 72 inches wide on a 104-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,516 lb.
Buying used? The 2024 3 Series and the 2024 UX have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2019 UX.
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the BMW 3 Series if…
- You want more room (8 in longer)
Choose the Lexus UX if…
- You want lower fuel bills (43 vs 31 MPG)
- You want something easier to park (8 in shorter)
Pros & cons of each
2026 BMW 3 Series
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
- AWD / 4WD available
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
2026 Lexus UX
- Excellent fuel economyUp to 43 MPG combined — 47% better than the average 2026 compact car (29.2 MPG).
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
- AWD / 4WD available
Full 2026 BMW 3 Series specs →Full 2026 Lexus UX specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →