X3 G01 vs Forester V (SK): which is better?
BMW X3 G01 (2017–2024) vs Subaru Forester V (SK) (2018–present): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
BMW X3 G01
Subaru Forester V (SK)Specifications
| BMW X3 G01 | Subaru Forester V (SK) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2017–2024 | 2018–present |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.0 Turbo (xDrive20i) | 2.5 |
| Power, up to | 184 hp | 185 hp |
| Torque, up to | 290 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | CVT |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 708 mm | 4 625 mm |
| Width | 1 891 mm | 1 815 mm |
| Height | 1 676 mm | 1 730 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 864 mm | 2 670 mm |
| Ground clearance | — | 220 mm |
| Fuel tank | 65 L | 63 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 16 475 ₸ | ≈ 29 450 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
BMW X3 G01
Pros
- Gearbox ZF 8HP: a reliable gearbox
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine BMW B46/B48/B58: oil and coolant leaks at high mileage
- Gearbox ZF 8HP: rarely, mechatronics and bushings at high mileage
Engine (BMW B46/B48/B58): oil and coolant leaks at high mileage; water pump failures occur.
Gearbox (ZF 8HP): reliable gearbox; rarely — mechatronic and bushings at high mileage.
Subaru Forester V (SK)
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- High ground clearance: 220 mm
- Currently in production — can be bought new
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Subaru FB20/FB25 engine: oil consumption on 2011–2014 engines
- Subaru Lineartronic gearbox (CVT): torque converter and chain wear
Engine (Subaru FB20/FB25): oil consumption on 2011–2014 engines; oil leaks.
Gearbox (Subaru Lineartronic (CVT)): torque converter and chain wear; overheating when wheels spin.
Which one to choose
- X3 G01 — if you care more about: torque, wheelbase, fuel tank, kz tax 2026.
- Forester V (SK) — if you care more about: power.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: X3 G01 or Forester V (SK)?
X3 G01: up to 184 hp, Forester V (SK): up to 185 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: X3 G01 — about 16 475 ₸, Forester V (SK) — about 29 450 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.