Land Rover Discovery Sport vs Bmw X3: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Land Rover Discovery Sport and Bmw X3, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 397,190 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
The Land Rover Discovery Sport edges ahead in this comparison with a 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 reliability advantage, 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 National Avg | +7 ptsWinner | +5 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,434Winner | £1,792 |
| 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) | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol, Diesel |
| 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 |
Common Problems Comparison
Land Rover Discovery Sport Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Bmw X3 Known Issues
- •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
Which is more reliable, the Land Rover Discovery Sport or Bmw X3?
Based on MOT data, the Land Rover Discovery Sport is more reliable with a 89% pass rate, compared to 87% for the Bmw X3.
Which is cheaper to run?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Land Rover Discovery Sport costs around £1,434 in fuel, while the Bmw X3 costs around £1,792. 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 a 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 reliability advantage, 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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