X1 vs EX40
Choosing between BMW and Volvo often comes down to a specific pair of products. In the subcompact luxury suv class, that pair is the X1 and the EX40. You won’t find a dramatic mismatch here: the X1 and the EX40 are close on nearly every line that counts.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance EX40 wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance7.5
- Engine & Performance8.5
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The EX40 has 15 lb-ft more torque
The EX40 wins this narrowly, 310 lb-ft against 295 lb-ft, which makes it more of a bonus than a reason to buy. More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
EX40 leads
If you’re keeping score, the engine & performance point goes narrowly to the EX40. The EX40 scores with 15 lb-ft more torque. The EX40’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing. Anyone shopping mainly on engine & performance should start with the EX40.
Torque
X1: 295 lb-ft EX40: 310 lb-ft Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
The differences on space & practicality are small enough to ignore in daily use. Net result on space & practicality: level.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
On off-road & towing, the X1 and the EX40 are effectively level. The off-road & towing verdict: no winner, and no reason to worry either way.
Safety & Tech
We don’t score this area directly, because the safety & tech specs are labels rather than measurements. The table shows what each lists.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | X1 | EX40 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Electric |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | Single rear electric motor |
| Total system output | 241 hp | 248 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft (winner) |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch | 1-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) | RWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | X1 | EX40 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 28 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 24 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 33 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 296 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | X1 | EX40 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | 25.7 cu ft Biggest cargo area | N/A (not specified) |
| Cargo (seats folded) | 57.2 cu ft Most room, seats folded | N/A (not specified) |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | X1 | EX40 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | X1 | EX40 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the EX40 if…
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (310 lb-ft vs 295 lb-ft of torque)
- you’re loyal to Volvo and happy with it
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the X1 or the EX40?
On the specs compared here, the EX40 makes more sense for most buyers; the X1 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
If it were just about the brand, you wouldn’t be here. So let’s talk about the X1 and the EX40 on their merits. The biggest reason I lean toward the EX40 is simple: it has 15 lb-ft more torque.
Choose by what you’d use most: the things a spec sheet can’t capture leads to the X1, engine & performance leads to the EX40.
My pick: the EX40.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.