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The 2023 BMW 3 Series is the gold standard when it comes to luxury compact sedans. The 3 Series has a great way of blending performance with poshness, and it comes at a great price point. However, not everyone in the market is looking for a BMW. In that case, here are three alternatives that are just as luxurious as a BMW 3 Series but a little more unique.

A side shot of the 2023 BMW 330e
2023 BMW 330e | BMW

1. Genesis G70

2023 Genesis G70 posing in the sunset.
2023 Genesis G70 | Genesis

If you haven’t checked out the Genesis line of cars, you owe it to yourself to do so. The G70 is the South Korean brand’s entry-level compact sedan and is posing a great challenge to the BMW 3 Series. The Genesis G70’s contemporary styling inside and out sets it apart from the rest, as does its healthy list of standard features.

Some of those features include a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, simulated leather seating, Apple Carplay/Android Auto, and dual-zone climate control. In addition to these luxuries, the G70 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that sends 252 hp to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Although it may look a little funkier than the BMW 3 Series, the Genesis G70 is a great alternative for anyone that wants to think outside of the box.

2. 2023 Alfa Romeo Giulia

Alfa Romeo Giulia.
Alfa Romeo Giulia. | Kelly Sullivan/Getty Images for The Hollywood Reporter

Speaking of funky-looking cars, the 2023 Alfa Romeo Giulia is another good candidate. The Giulia has a distinct Italian style with a V-shaped front grille and an overall high-end look. On the inside, the Giulia boasts a simplistic design, but it’s just as luxurious as the BMW 3 Series. Some of its standard features include dual-zone climate control, an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a set of Brembo brakes.

The Alfa Romeo Giulia is also performance-oriented with its standard turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 280 hp and 306 lb-ft of torque. However, if you need more power, there is a stronger Quadrifoglio trim level that puts out 505 hp, which is more akin to BMW’s M3. No matter which trim level you choose, you’ll definitely have a different set of wheels with the Alfa Romeo.

3. 2020 Jaguar XE

Jaguar XE
Jaguar XE | Raymond Boyd/Getty Images

If you don’t mind looking at the used market, the 2020 Jaguar XE is a unique alternative to the BMW 3 Series. Although it’s now discontinued, Car and Driver once sang its praises, saying, “Its good looks and athletic moves had it vying to be our favorite in the small-luxury-sedan segment.” It’s still quite the looker with its subtle but athletic aesthetics.

Some notable standard features include leather seating surfaces, Apple Carplay/Android Auto, and a digital gauge cluster. It doesn’t skimp on performance, either. Under the hood is a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that puts out 247 hp in the lower trim and 296 hp in the higher trim level. That power is matched to a livable ride quality that exudes a sporty feel when needed, thanks to an adaptive suspension.

This entry-level Jaguar may be extinct, but it still poses a rare threat to the BMW 3 Series in the afterlife.

Unique BMW 3 Series alternatives that are just as luxurious

Although the BMW 3 Series is the standard by which many luxury buyers measure other cars in its class, it’s not the only car to pick. Other rivals, like these three, can give any luxury shoppers a unique dose of luxury without using a fancy German badge.

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