2025 BMW 3 Series 330i vs 2025 Acura TLX Base
$4,450 less and 7 mpg better vs 8.7″ longer and AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $4,450 price gap, 255 vs 272 hp, 31 vs 24 MPG.
The 3 Series 330i leads on $4,450 less, 7 MPG better. The TLX Base leads on 8.7″ longer, AWD. The spec table compares 8 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 8 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i | 2025 Acura TLX Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $45,950 | $50,400 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 255 hp | 272 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 28 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 35 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 31 | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.6 gal | 15.9 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,850/yr | $2,400/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,644 lbs | 3,990 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 113.0" |
| Length | 185.9" | 194.6" |
| Width | 71.9" | 75.2" |
| Height | 56.8" | 56.4" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 6yr/70k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/unlimited | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i and 2025 Acura TLX Base?
The 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i starts at $45,950, $4,450 less than the 2025 Acura TLX Base at $50,400. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $79/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i?
The 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,450 in your pocket and the 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $395/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Acura TLX Base?
The 2025 Acura TLX Base is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i or 2025 Acura TLX Base?
The 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i rates 31 combined MPG, 7 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i or 2025 Acura TLX Base?
The 2025 Acura TLX Base produces 272 hp, 17 more than the 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i at 255 hp. The 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i also leads in torque at 295 lb-ft vs 280 lb-ft. The 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i runs a 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo; the 2025 Acura TLX Base uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: RWD on the 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i, AWD on the 2025 Acura TLX Base.
Is the 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i bigger than the 2025 Acura TLX Base?
The 2025 Acura TLX Base is 8.7″ longer at 194.6″ vs 185.9″. The 2025 Acura TLX Base has a 0.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i and 2025 Acura TLX Base have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Acura TLX Base comes with AWD, while the 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i uses RWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The BMW 3 Series comes with 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. The Acura TLX offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 6yr/70k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: BMW trims, BMW 3 Series trims, Acura trims, Acura TLX trims
- 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Acura TLX Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the 3 Series and TLX Stack Up
Two compact cars, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i starts at $45,950; the 2025 Acura TLX Base at $50,400. The $4,450 gap adds up to $79/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: 3 Series vs TLX
The 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i runs a 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo; the 2025 Acura TLX Base uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 17 hp difference (272 vs 255) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Acura TLX Base comes with AWD; the 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i uses RWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i saves roughly $395/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,975. The 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Acura TLX Base weighs 346 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i when you want to keep $4,450 in your pocket and the 2025 BMW 3 Series 330i covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Acura TLX Base when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. At $79/month more, the 2025 Acura TLX Base needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with BMW or Acura or any dealership.