• BMW and Alfa Romeo go head-to-head in this video review.

• Each automaker's SUV offers something unique to owners.

• Choosing one would come down to personal preference.

• For more motoring stories, go to www.Wheels24.co.za

A while back, Wheels24 reported on the BMW X3 M Competitio and Alfa Romeo Stelvio Q. Both SUVs sit at the top of their respective line-ups, delivering impressive performance and impeccable handling characteristics.

While these machines share similar power outputs and performance figures, they couldn't be more different. Each SUV brings something unique to the table. Choosing between these two SUVs will come down to personal preference, but either choice will leave you content with your decision.

Wheels24's Charlen Raymond says: "I thoroughly enjoyed both SUVs and both garner a fair amount of excitement. The logical choice will be to opt for the BMW, simply because it comes with brand cache and an M-engine. But the Alfa… It comes with flair and a brass personality. It will stir the emotions for all the right reasons and will, in my opinion, leave you with the biggest smile.

Wheels24 editor Janine Van der Post says: "I fall under the Cancerian zodiac sign so everyone knows I am an emotional being.

"The BMW X3 M Competition has all the street cred, there's no doubt about that. It's a solid car, and BMW has a winner here with its powertrain and all its driving dynamics. But, if I am going to choose, my heart strings pull towards the Alfa Romeo Stelvio QV. It's just more planted on the road and feels more steady in corners. And, because it's such a niche product, it stands out from the rest. 

"This really is a tough comparison as both vehicles are put together very well; materials and the equipment on the inside are of high-quality; throttle response to the driver is also immediate on both cars, but the Stelvio is more exciting.

"Perhaps I am biased to the Italian brand because of its rich racing heritage but generally, Alfa Romeo makes really good cars, they just don't relate in sales numbers in SA. And, if my experience in both vehicles is based on the emotional connection, the Alfa wins hands down."

2020 BMW X3 M Competition (left) and Alfa Romeo Stelvio QV (Warren Wilson)