The 2019 Volvo XC40 ranked #1 in Luxury Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Volvo XC40 has a score of 9.1 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 15 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Powerful engine Smooth ride and nimble handling Posh interior Lengthy features list
Cons Below-average cargo capacity
The 2019 Volvo XC40 is a compact luxury crossover with seating for five. Two trim levels are available: the Momentum and the R-Design. Every XC40 comes loaded with luxury and safety features, including LED headlights, leather upholstery, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, lane keeping assist, and forward collision warning and mitigation. Upgrading to the R-Design doesn't cost much more and adds exterior styling enhancements (a black roof and black window surrounds, among others), larger wheels and more luxury features. Each is also available with several available features packages and stand-alone options.
PROS Pleasing interior layout with premium materials Clever small-item storage and cargo solutions Plenty of standard and available safety features
CONS Cargo area is small for the class Steep learning curve for touchscreen interface Rear bench seat isn't comfortable for tall passengers
The 2019 Volvo XC40 upends tradition—and traditional style—in mostly acceptable ways, and kicks off the car-subscription era with a stylish bang.
Pros Clever interior features Competent turbo-4 in T5 trims Smooth 8-speed automatic World-beating subscription model Smart 9.0-inch touchscreen as standard
Cons Exterior can get funky—and not the good kind Frustrating shift knob A Swedish car with extra-cost heated seats? Rear bench is best for two Will a Netflix car for broadcast buyers work?
BMW has rearranged the X1’s lineup for 2018 and now offers five distinct trims—base, Convenience, M Sport, Premium, and M Sport Premium—each with more features than the last. Only a few features are still offered as standalone options on non-Premium trims, including front and rear parking sensors ($800), LED headlamps ($950), Navigation ($950), and heated seats and steering wheel ($550). Some new features join the party for 2018; a backup camera is now standard, as is BMW’s ConnectedDrive in-car concierge service. Apple CarPlay is now optional ($300) as is onboard Wi-Fi with wireless device charging ($500). A new color—Sunset Orange Metallic—replaces Chestnut Bronze.
Pros Sweetheart engine and transmission, athletic chassis, capacious cargo hold.
Cons Unsupportive standard seats, slow infotainment system, subtle exterior styling.
The 2018 BMW X1 is a compelling crossover pick for a budget BMW buyer who can’t do without a roundel.
pros Subtle but good looks Responsive turbo-4 Good 8-speed automatic Relatively good value in base guise Spacious cargo area
Cons Options add up quickly Front seats aren’t the best seats Pricey advanced safety package No manual transmission?
The 2018 BMW X1 is a five-seat compact SUV in the luxury segment. It comes in two versions: the front-wheel-drive X1 sDrive28i and the all-wheel-drive X1 xDrive28i. From there, you have two directions to go: xLine Design or the sportier M Sport Design. After that, you can add various option groups that BMW calls tiers. The M Sport Design already comes with the Convenience group, which is optional on the xLine Design. Afterward, packages and stand-alone options are available based on which initial design and group you select.
PROS Strong and responsive turbo engine Sharp handling makes it fun to drive Plenty of rear passenger and cargo room High-quality materials and fit-and-finish
CONS Not particularly quiet on the highway Standard sport suspension may be jarring on rough roads
