Land Rover Discovery Sport vs BMW X3: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Land Rover Discovery Sport and BMW X3, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 397,190 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The Land Rover Discovery Sport edges ahead in this comparison with an 89% MOT pass rate versus 87% for the BMW X3. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Land Rover Discovery Sport has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the BMW X3 may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Land Rover Discovery Sport
89%
MOT pass rate
200,130 tests
More reliableBMW X3
87%
MOT pass rate
197,060 tests
Full Comparison: Land Rover Discovery Sport vs BMW X3
| Category | Land Rover Discovery Sport | BMW X3 |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 89%Winner | 87% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 11%Winner | 13% |
| vs All-Model Avg | +7 ptsWinner | +5 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (diesel, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,510Winner | £1,908 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 25-35 | 30-42 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £2,000-£3,500 | £2,000-£3,500 |
| Engine Size | 2.0L | 2.5L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Diesel | Diesel, Petrol |
| Segment | Family car | Premium |
| Avg Mileage | 54,913 miWinner | 91,817 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 200,130 | 197,060 |
| Model Years | 9 years | 18 years |
| Best Year | 2014 (92%) | 2021 (94%)Winner |
| Worst Year | 2021 (81%)Winner | 2005 (76%) |
| Reliability Trend | Stable | ImprovingWinner |
Pass rates are the share of MOT tests that ended in a pass (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included), across all years of each model. Best and worst years need at least 100 tests. Fuel cost, insurance group and depreciation are our rough estimates from engine size and make, not official figures.
Common Problems Comparison
Typical issues to check on cars of this type and age, not faults measured for these models.
Land Rover Discovery Sport: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
BMW X3: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Higher tyre and brake wear (larger engine)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
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Land Rover Discovery Sport vs BMW X3 FAQ
Can I compare a Land Rover Discovery Sport and BMW X3 by registration plate?
Yes. Enter each car's UK registration plate on this page or use our free compare tool at carcostcheck.co.uk/compare to see MOT history, mileage, health scores and running costs for the exact vehicles you are considering, not just model averages.
Which is more reliable, the Land Rover Discovery Sport or BMW X3?
The Land Rover Discovery Sport has the higher MOT pass rate, 89% compared to 87% for the BMW X3 (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Land Rover Discovery Sport or BMW X3?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Land Rover Discovery Sport costs around £1,510 in fuel, while the BMW X3 costs around £1,908 (our estimates for diesel versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 19 October 2026). The Land Rover Discovery Sport is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Land Rover Discovery Sport or BMW X3?
The Land Rover Discovery Sport edges ahead in this comparison with an 89% MOT pass rate versus 87% for the BMW X3. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Land Rover Discovery Sport has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the BMW X3 may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Land Rover Discovery Sport Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
BMW X3 Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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