Question of the Day: 2011 BMW X3, Audi Q5 or Mercedes-Benz GLK

Here it is – the 2011 lineup of compact SUVs, Crossovers or whatever you want to call them. BMW yesterday announced official pricing on the new reengineered and redesigned 2011 BMW X3 so we figured it’s finally time to ask a question we’ve been waiting to ask for a long time; which of the following compact SUVs would you buy – the 2011 BMW X3, 2011 Audi Q5 or the 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK.

Keep in mind that each automaker offers different powertrains and different price points – so if one seems to cost less than the other – it’s probably because one is offering less power and interior features as standard option. Let’s take a look at pricing vs. power.

The $37,625 2011 BMW X3 xDrive28i is powered by a 3.0L inline 6-clyinder unit making 240-hp and 230 lb-ft of torque. Pricing for the X3 xDrive35i jumps up to $41,925 since you get the 3.0L inline 6-clyinder N55 with direct fuel injection, twin-scroll turbo technology and Valvetronic that produces 300-hp and 300 lb-ft of torque.

The 2011 Audi Q5 2.0T, which is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder making 211-hp, starts at $35,3700, so while that’s less than the X3, it also comes with a 4-cylinder turbo making less power. Moving up a notch, the 2011 Audi Q5 3.2 FSI, which is powered by a 3.2L V6 making 270-hp, starts at $42,500. That’s more than the 2011 BMW X3 xDrive35i and once again, offers less power.

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK is the only one offered in one variant – the GLK350. Power comes from a 268-hp 3.5L V6 engine with prices starting at $35,500.

However, if power is not your concern then all offer the similar amount of limited utility, all seat 5-passengers, all are German and all offer some good reliable quality along with a solid drive and comfort.

The question is, which one would you buy?

Have your say in the poll below and let us know your thought process in the comments after the jump.

– By: Omar Rana