BMW X1 vs Volvo EX30

What's the difference?

VS
BMW X1
BMW X1

$42,800 - $79,990

2023 price

Volvo EX30
Volvo EX30

$49,990 - $62,990

2026 price

Summary

2023 BMW X1
2026 Volvo EX30
Safety Rating

Engine Type
Turbo 4, 2.0L

Not Applicable, 0.0L
Fuel Type
Premium Unleaded Petrol

Electric
Fuel Efficiency
7.2L/100km (combined)

0.0L/100km (combined)
Seating
5

5
Dislikes
  • Pricey
  • Servicing on the expensive side
  • Small fuel tank

  • 19-inch rims
  • Squeeze back seat
  • No cover on panoramic glass roof
2023 BMW X1 Summary

BMW’s X1 has changed. In a good way. Especially if you’re thinking about buying one as a family car.

Yep, last year the third-generation X1 arrived and after 13 years and three different attempts on a design, BMW has nailed it. And by ‘it’ I mean built a super practical and spacious small SUV that’s great to drive. 

See, as a dad of two kids, when it comes to cars and my family ‘it’ means something totally different to what ‘it’ meant 10 years ago.

And that’s what this review is about: does the BMW X1, and specifically this xDrive20i M Sport variant we’ve tested here, make a good family car?

If you're thinking of buying it for your family then you need to read this and also consider the likes of Audi’s Q3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLB.

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2026 Volvo EX30 Summary

The EX30 Cross Country is the new adventure-focussed top-shelf variant in Volvo’s small electric SUV line-up.

This five-seat compact crossover has a dual-motor electric set-up, all-wheel drive, raised suspension, more ground clearance than a regular EX30 and an exterior that more than hints at its off-road aspirations.

But just how much potential does this Cross Country have as an all-wheel drive adventure machine?

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Deep dive comparison

2023 BMW X1 2026 Volvo EX30

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