Volvo XC40 vs BMW X1: Variants Comparison

Which of these two compact SUVs offer better value for your money? We find out

Volvo launched the XC40 in India on 4 July, 2018. Within two weeks of its launch, the Swedish car manufacturer managed to sell 200 units of the compact luxury SUV. Although it was launched in a single, mid-spec variant - the R-Design, Volvo has now added two more - Momentum and Inscription - to the lineup. The current BMW X1, on the other hand, was introduced at the 2016 Auto Expo in a total of three variants. Both SUVs are priced in the Rs 35 lakh - 45 lakh range. So, let’s compare the two to find out which one suits your needs the best.

Note: All prices, ex-showroom India

Engine Specifications

X1 xLine vs XC40 Momentum

Price difference: Since the second variant of the X1 and the base variant of the XC40 are priced closely, let’s start by comparing the two. The Volvo is still expensive by Rs 1.40 lakh, which makes us wonder if it packs any extra features when compared to the BMW.

Common Features: Since these are relatively expensive premium vehicles, even entry-level variants offer a substantial amount of features. On the outside, both SUVs get faux skid plates, electrically-foldable outside rearview mirrors (ORVMs), bending LED headlamps, 18-inch alloy wheels and roof rails as standard. Inside the cabin, you get features such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror (IRVM), a panoramic glass roof, electrically-adjustable driver’s seat with memory function and a central armrest with storage. Safety suite consists of six airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control, multiple driving modes, tyre pressure monitor, ISOFIX mounts, rear parking camera and sensors.

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Advantages of XC40 over X1: Both SUVs are offered with a touchscreen infotainment unit as standard. However, the Volvo receives a bigger 9-inch unit when compared to the 6.5-inch unit on the X1. That said, both units get the same connectivity options such as voice command, navigation, USB and Bluetooth integration. Then there’s a fully-digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster that is offered as standard in the XC40. You also get a storage space underneath the driver’s seat, a foldable hatch on the boot floor with hooks for your groceries, lane keeping aid, 4WD (4-wheel drive) with hill descent and collision mitigation control.  

Advantages of X1 over XC40: The BMW is definitely the sportier of the two as it gets launch control with paddle shifters Apart from that, it also comes with fog lamps, runflat tyres, cornering brake control, traction control, auto start/stop, brake energy regeneration and BMW’s attention assist.

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Takeaway: A price difference of Rs 1.40 lakh may not seem much in this segment. While the X1’s mid-range variant seems to be loaded with more features than the Volvo, the XC40’s base variant comes with a better mix of equipment and safety features. The bigger infotainment system, digital instrument cluster and the various in-cabin storage spaces make the Volvo feel a  bit more premium. Additionally, the Volvo gets the versatility of a 4WD drivetrain, which should come in handy while tackling rough roads when required. Hence, we think that despite the premium, the XC40 is worth its salt.

BMW X1 M Sport (4WD) vs Volvo XC40 Inscription

Price Difference: The M Sport (4WD) and the Inscription are the top variants of the X1 and the XC40. And it's the BMW that is more expensive by Rs 60,000. Is there any justification to that? Let’s find out.

Common Features over those in the lower variants: 4WD with hill descent control, park assist, fog lamps and roof rails.

Advantages of XC40 over X1: Heated front leather seats, power-foldable rear headrest, wireless charging, 12V socket in the boot and a Harman Kardon audio unit.

Advantages of X1 over XC40: Sport seats, Nappa leather steering wheel, split display for the infotainment system and HUD (heads up display) mode. 

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Takeaway: In the case of their top-spec variants, the price difference between the two SUVs isn’t much, and there is no clear winner here as both SUVs are filled to the brim with features. However, the X1 appears to be a more attractive option for those who like a sportier cabin. The XC40’s versatility, on the other hand, makes it a bit more practical.

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