While EVs get a lot of attention in the media, it seems Americans aren't ready to abandon their obsession with crossover SUVs—so much so that European automakers Volvo
and BMW are in a fierce competition to win this market segment. While electric SUVs
may become popular in the near future, they still need a bit of work to compete with their combustion engine counterparts. In any case, here is our comparison of the BMW X1 vs. Volvo XC40. While buying a new car will probably increase insurance rates
, both these vehicles are worth considering if you're in the crossover market. BMW X1 vs. Volvo XC40: engine and specs
Sometimes, these types of comparisons require complex spreadsheets given all the various trims and add-ons. It will be a little easier pitting the BMW X1 vs. the Volvo XC40 since the X1 has just one trim.
The BMW X1 comes with a compact turbo 2.0-liter inline-four engine. While inline-four engines were mocked in the past, the turbocharged aspect gives this vehicle some extra power. It can produce 288 hp and go from 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds, as reported by HotCars
. Not bad for an SUV. The Volvo XC40 is a little more complex to break down, given its two trims. No matter the trim, you can also expect a turbo 2.0-liter inline-four engine. However, due to different iterations, different trims will have different power. The T4 trim can produce 184 hp, whereas the T5 can produce 248.
If you opt for the all-wheel drive T5, you can expect to go 0-60 in 6.1 seconds. This makes the XC40 more speedy if you opt for the right trim and add-on.
BMW X1 vs. Volvo XC40: which is the better value?
When trying to compare the BMW X1 vs. the Volvo XC40 on pricing, both vehicles are quite equal. The X1 has a standard MSRP of $35,400 with no add-ons. However, the all-wheel drive option can make it more expensive. The X1 used to have a hybrid option available, but that has been discontinued.
The XC40 starts at $35,195 for the basic trim with no add-ons. But if you opt for the high ended R-Design trim, you can expect to drop at least $40,445. Very recently, Volvo announced that there will be a fully electric version of the XC40. That will start at $55,300, but it may not be available in your market given how new it is. To test drive one, you may even need to fly to a dealership where it is available.
Other factors to consider
There is a contentious debate going on about the cars’ interiors. No matter the class, powertrain, or starting price, there is a fierce argument of minimalism vs. practicality. Some car enthusiasts argue that minimalism makes a car's interior feel much more inviting. However, others will say that you shouldn't have to swipe through the infotainment system for five minutes just to turn on your brights.
This may be the biggest difference when comparing the BMW X1 vs. Volvo XC40. BMW has stuck with a traditional and practical design, with knobs and controls that are easy to find. Volvo has gone with the minimalist trend, trying to squeeze every control function onto the infotainment system.
No matter which you prefer, this may be the deciding factor when comparing these two cars.
MORE: What's the Best BMW of All Time? Here Are 5 of Our Top Picks
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