BMW X1 vs. Volvo XC40

Automotive Editor

Based out of the Washington, D.C. area, Joel Patel is an automotive journalist that hails from Northern Virginia. His work has been featured on various automotive outlets, including Autoweek, Digital Trends, and Autoblog. When not writing about cars, Joel enjoys trying new foods, wrenching on his car, and watching horror movies.

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, Automotive Editor - July 13, 2018

BMW's extensive lineup of crossovers continues to grow with smaller offerings. Consumers are looking to move away from large SUVs in favor of more compact options that are easier to drive and more fuel efficient. The subcompact BMW X1 is one of the automaker's more recent additions to the lineup and is its smallest offering.

BMW isn't the only automaker that has been adding new, more compact models to its roster. Volvo recently added the subcompact XC40 to its lineup, which features a stunning design and loads of technology. Is the X1's sporty character enough to ward off competition from the XC40?

See a side-by-side comparison of the X1 & XC40 »

What the X1 Gets Right

While the XC40 and X1 are both classified as subcompact SUVs, the X1 is the option for consumers that prioritize cargo capacity. The BMW is rated to hold 27.1 cubic feet of cargo with the rear seats down and 58.7 cubic feet of cargo in total. Cargo capacity for the XC40 isn't as good, as the subcompact SUV can hold 20.7 cubic feet of cargo behind the second row. That figure expands to 47.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

BMW is renowned for making sporty vehicles that are enjoyable to drive and the X1 reads like the more athletic choice because of its more powerful engine. The X1 comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine that makes 228 horsepower. The base engine in the XC40 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that generates 184 hp.

What the XC40 Gets Right

The XC40 may look like the more radically-styled machine, but it's the more affordable model of the two. The XC40 starts at $34,195, which includes the $995 destination fee. BMW's smallest SUV is a little pricier, with a starting price of $34,895. A $700 difference might not seem like a lot on paper, but the savings can be put toward more features.

With the XC40's less powerful engine, the vehicle gets better fuel economy figures. The Volvo is rated by the EPA to get up to 23 miles per gallon city, 33 mpg highway, and 27 combined. The X1 lags behind slightly with a combined rating of 26 mpg, according to the EPA.

Not Looking for a Traditional Ownership Method?

Leasing or paying outright for a vehicle are old-school methods for getting behind the wheel of a car. Volvo is one of the first automakers in the industry to offer an alternative to long-term automobile ownership. Thanks to Care by Volvo, subscribers can get into a XC40 Momentum for $650 a month, which includes maintenance, insurance, normal wear and tear, as well as road hazard protection. The innovative subscription plan is an attractive way to get into a new XC40 without making a long-term commitment.

Verdict: Volvo XC40

The BMW X1 and Volvo XC40 are awfully close to one another, but it's the Volvo that takes the edge. Its stylish exterior and lower price tag are two of the more attractive aspects of the SUV over the X1. The ability to get into a XC40 through Care by Volvo is the icing on the top of the cake for the subcompact.

Take a closer look at the BMW X1 »

Take a closer look at the Volvo XC40 »

Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, photos and more!