BMW iX1 vs Volvo XC40 Recharge: Battle of the small prestige electric SUVs

Uploaded 2 years ago by CarGurus UK

Video Summary

The iX1 XDrive 30 has a range of 270 miles from a 64.7 kWh usable battery. Its price starts from £53,295, and it has a 0 to 62 mph time of 5.6 seconds. The Volvo XC40 has a price of £51,755 and a 75 kWh usable battery, and a range of up to 272 miles.  However, the model year 2023 Volvo XC40 has been updated with a larger 79 kWh battery and a potential range of up to 334 miles.
The iX1’s 490-liter boot is a good size, with underfloor cable storage.  It also has rear seats that split into three parts to leave a flat, extended load bay.
The rear passenger space is good, actually slightly better than in the XC40. However, the BMW has a seatbelt that comes down out of the roof, which could obstruct visibility.
The iX1 has one of the best interiors in its class, with classy materials and a curved touchscreen that is standard across the range. Adaptive cruise control and heated seats are included, but a comfort pack and a technology pack are offered as additional options.
The touch screen system is very good, with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, and built-in satnav. The graphics are rated as the best in class. The BMW’s 130kW peak charging rate is less than the Volvo’s 200 kW, but charging to 80% will still take around 30 minutes in each car.
The Volvo’s boot is a bit smaller than the iX1’s at 419 liters. It is a well-thought out package. But it may have a slightly higher load lip, which makes it hard for dogs to get in.
The XC40 will get approximately 3 miles per kWh, giving a range of 220 miles. With the more modern powertrain, The Volvo’s has a 0 to 62 time of 4.9 second and 402 horsepower.

The reviewer feels the Volvo is slightly better than the BMW.  The better dynamics, styling, and efficiency put it ahead.  The BMW also has a steering wheel that the reviewer found too thick and the regen can be difficult to access. Finally, the the BMW lacks a bit of the fun factor other BMW's have.

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