BMW X1 vs. Volvo XC40: which is better?
BMW and Volvo are well-known for their high-quality SUVs, but which is better between the X1 and the XC40 models?
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If you’re after a small SUV that balances a high driving position with manageable dimensions, these crossovers certainly fit the bill.
Because they belong to brands usually associated with luxurious cars, expect to find high-quality materials and the latest in-car technology in both.
You can also get used Volvo and used BMW models if you want to make savings compared to purchasing brand-new.
Despite being similar in size, they are very different cars that appeal to different types of buyers. We outline the key differences below.
Styling of the Volvo XC40 vs. BMW X1
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BMW cars are typically designed to be sporty, and the same is true of the X1. Even though it’s a small SUV, it has a long bonnet reminiscent of a sports car.
The Volvo XC40 is much more conventional in terms of shape and looks like a smaller version of the boxy XC90 seven-seater SUV.
The interior is where these cars really come into their own. The BMW’s centre console almost wraps itself around the driver so that they can feel part of the car. It’s all designed to invoke a sense of engagement.
The XC40 is a lot more minimal, with a large portrait-oriented touchscreen taking centre stage on the dashboard.
What are the BMW X1 and Volvo XC40 like to drive?
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Previous versions of the X1 were rear-wheel drive, but when BMW updated the model in 2015, it changed this to front-wheel drive. The XC40 is also front-wheel drive.
The benefits of this include greater efficiency and, generally, more interior and boot space. Enthusiasts will argue that rear-wheel-drive cars are more enjoyable to drive, but most drivers going about their daily business won’t be bothered about this.
The majority of BMW X1 models, including the latest-generation version introduced in 2022, are generally sold with four-wheel drive, but Volvo’s primary option is front-wheel drive, with only a small handful available as 4x4 models.
They’re designed to be efficient, but neither of the two models feels particularly slow.
The XC40 has been available with rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive electric options for several years, so finding a used one shouldn’t be too hard.
Front- and all-wheel-drive electric X1s – badged iX1 – are also available, but these were introduced in 2022 and can still be expensive to buy used.
The brands have also introduced various plug-in hybrid variants over the years, each capable of around 30 miles of electric motoring.
Volvo XC40 and BMW X1 interior and technology comparison
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Whichever you pick, you can be sure that the interior is designed to maximise passenger comfort and give the driver all the tools they need to make a journey more pleasant.
The BMW has one of the best infotainment systems in the business, which uses a large touchscreen, voice recognition and gesture control, depending on the model. You could also expect things like adaptive cruise control, parking sensors and cameras, and driver aids like a lane departure warning system.
The Volvo has all the same sort of comforts, but much of this is handled from the large tablet-style touchscreen on the dashboard. The system itself is great, but most drivers will find themselves using smartphone connectivity for most controls anyway.
Both have plenty of optional extras when new, so use our handy search filters to make sure that any used models you have your eye on come with what you’re after.
Which has more boot space: BMW X1 or Volvo XC40?
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Despite its boxier shape, the Volvo XC40 has the smaller of the two boots. The 452-litre space extends to 1,328 litres with the seats folded down.
You’ll notice subtle changes depending on which version you go for. Mild hybrid models lose 19 litres of space with the seats up, while electric models make do with a smaller 413-litre boot. They do get a 31-litre storage space under the bonnet, though.
Previous-generation BMW X1 models built between 2015 and 2021 have a larger 505-litre boot, which extends to 1,550 litres with the seats folded. On paper, this is much more practical for carrying bulky items. Hybrid models sacrifice some boot space.
When new models are introduced, car companies typically look to make them more practical. The latest 2022-onward X1 has a larger boot, which can measure up to 540 litres, or 1,600 litres with the rear seats folded.
The electric iX1 has a 490-litre boot that can be extended up to 1,495 litres, but it doesn’t have the storage space under the bonnet that some other electric cars have.
BMW X1 and Volvo XC40 reliability and safety
There’s not enough data yet to comment on the latest-generation X1’s reliability, but the previous version performed reasonably well.
Other cars, including the 1 Series on which this is based and the larger 3 Series saloon, have suffered in some customer satisfaction reports, but the brand as a whole often outperforms used Mercedes and used Audi models.
Volvo is a brand that’s synonymous with reliability, and the XC40 has come out above many key rivals for several years.
Think Volvo and you’ll likely think safety, but neither car disappoints. The BMW was awarded a five-star Euro NCAP rating in 2022 and 2015, as was the XC40 in 2018.
Volvo XC40 vs. BMW X1 dimensions
Despite their different designs, both models are reasonably similar in terms of their dimensions.
The XC40 is 4,440mm long, 1,910mm wide and 1,652mm tall, which is similar to the latest X1 at 4,500mm long, 1,845mm wide and 1,642mm tall.
Earlier X1 models are slightly shorter, narrower and shorter, but without a tape measure, the difference would be hard to notice.
The key difference between the two is that the X1 is up to 8.9cm narrower than the XC40, which should make it easier to fit through tight gaps and on country lanes, but the driver sits a little lower, which gives the car a sense of being wider anyway.
Volvo XC40 vs. BMW X1: which should you buy?
Despite its SUV looks, most Volvo XC40 models are petrol-powered and front-wheel-drive, so they’re best suited to families looking for a safe and reliable SUV that’s pleasant to be in and practical to use.
The BMW appeals more to those looking for a more engaging and sporty experience. There are plenty of options when it comes to fuel and drive type, so there should be something to suit any driver.