Volvo XC40 Vs. BMW X1 | Specs, Reliability & Features

In this article, we compare and contrast the Volvo XC40 vs. BMW X1 to help you decide which model is the best fit for the coveted spot in your garage. Both of these luxury SUVs offer seating for up to five people, a sleek sense of style, and a cabin loaded with luxury features. Only one, however, will be the right choice for you and your family.

To help you come to a decision, we'll discuss BMW X1 vs. Volvo XC40 performance, gas mileage, features, and more. Please read on to discover why the Volvo compact SUV is such a clear standout in a competitive vehicle segment.

Volvo XC40 vs. BMW X1: Performance

Volvo XC40 Specs

The 2024 Volvo XC40 is available with three powertrain configurations. The standard mild-hybrid B5 AWD setup mates a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder internal combustion engine with a 48-volt battery-and-motor system. This powertrain puts out 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.

The other choice is the all-electric Volvo XC40 Recharge. It eschews a gasoline-powered engine in favor of battery-and-motor systems. The Single Motor Extended Range powertrain uses a rear-mounted motor setup to provide 248 horsepower, 310 pound-feet of torque, and rear-wheel drive. The Twin Motor powertrain has front- and rear-mounted motors and makes 402 horsepower, 494 pound-feet of torque, and has innovative all-wheel drive.

BMW X1 Specs

If you go with the BMW SUV after reading our BMW X1 vs. Volvo XC40 comparison, you'll have two powertrain options. The BMW X1 xDrive28i has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that puts out 241 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It comes standard with all-wheel drive.

The upgraded option is found on the BMW X1 M35i. It has a twin-turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder internal combustion engine that produces 313 horsepower. While this is nothing to scoff at, it falls far short of the 402 horsepower offered by the top-tier Volvo model.

The BMW X1 engine options are not as impressive or versatile as those of the Volvo XC40. As we shall see, they also fail to make up for their lesser power when it comes to fuel economy.

BMW X1 vs. Volvo XC40: Fuel Economy

Volvo XC40 Gas Mileage

If you purchase a 2024 Volvo XC40 B5 AWD, you'll enjoy an EPA-estimated 24/30/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).¹ This is a very competitive fuel economy rating for this vehicle size class. However, the all-electric Volvo XC40 Recharge models have even more impressive scores.

The Twin Motor models boast an EPA-estimated 106/90/98 MPGe (City/Highway/Combined).² MPGe is a measurement that the EPA designed to compare the gas mileage performance of traditional vehicles with the energy usage of electric cars. As you can see, the Volvo XC40 Recharge can offer you significant savings on fuel costs.

The Single Motor Extended Range model is even more efficient. It scores an EPA-estimated 118/95/106 MPGe (City/Highway/Combined).² This version of the 2024 Volvo XC40 is able to travel up to an EPA-estimated 293 miles on one charge, while the higher-horsepower Twin Motor variant gets an EPA-estimated 254 miles of driving range on a single charge.²

BMW X1 Gas Mileage

The BMW X1 xDrive28i scores an EPA-estimated 25/34/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).³ Its twin-turbocharged sibling, the BMW X1 M35i, gets an EPA-estimated 23/31/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).³ These numbers are comparable to those of the mild-hybrid Volvo XC40 but pale when held up alongside the scores of the all-electric Recharge model.

If you're ready to choose a new Volvo XC40, we'd say you're in the right place. The team here at our Volvo dealer in Atlanta, GA, is excited to help you start driving a brand-new luxury vehicle. If you're still unsure of which car to pick, please read on.

Volvo XC40 vs. BMW X1: Features

Volvo XC40 Features

The entry-level Volvo XC40 Core comes standard with heated front seats, two-zone climate control, and a 9-inch touch screen that allows for easy management of your vehicle's navigation and audio systems. As one climbs the tree of available trims, the car becomes even more impressive, adding features such as leather upholstery and a panoramic roof.

If you have any questions about Volvo XC40 reliability, features, or financing, please don't hesitate to reach out to the North Point Volvo Cars team. We're looking forward to seeing you on our dealership lot and can lend you a hand with Volvo financing when the time comes.

BMW X1 Features

The BMW X1 comes with some luxury features, but they are not as impressive as those of the new Volvo XC40 for sale. The BMW X1 price includes dual-zone climate control, ambient interior illumination, and a touch screen for media. It does not, however, come with heated front seats, unlike the Volvo XC40.

The BMW X1 reliability also leaves something to be desired when compared with the Volvo vehicle. We have all seen Volvo cars on the road that have clearly been driving for decades, while BMW automobiles are known for requiring extra care and attention in the shop. The Volvo XC40 price includes additional peace of mind, as the company's vehicles typically rack up at least 150,000 miles on the odometer without requiring significant repairs.

Thank you for reading our Volvo XC40 vs. BMW X1 comparison article. While both of these luxury compact SUVs are impressive, the Volvo XC40 provides better value for your hard-earned cash. Our new Volvo specials can make it even easier to get behind the wheel of a new luxury vehicle. Visit us today for a Volvo XC40 test drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW X1 the same size as the Volvo XC40?

The BMW X1 and Volvo XC40 are the smallest SUVs offered by their respective manufacturers as of the beginning of the 2024 model year. The BMW X1 is classified as a subcompact SUV, while the Volvo XC40 is a compact SUV. While they're in adjacent size classes, the comparison is appropriate because of where they're situated in their lineups. Contact the North Point Volvo Cars team to learn more.

Why is the Volvo XC40 so popular?

The Volvo XC40 is a popular luxury SUV because it blends impressive power with numerous luxuries, no matter the trim you select. The 2024 Volvo XC40 comes standard with heated seats, mid-level interior illumination, and a premium audio system. Mid- and top-tier trims are even more compelling; you'll find a panoramic roof, leather upholstery, and more on the Plus and Ultimate models.

What is the BMW equivalent to Volvo XC40?

The BMW X1 and BMW X3 are commonly compared to the Volvo XC40. These SUVs are on the smaller side, just like the Volvo XC40. They combine the spaciousness that every SUV has to offer with strong fuel economy ratings and competitive luxury features. This article compares the BMW X1 vs. Volvo XC40 to help you decide which model is the best fit for you and yours.

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