New BMW X1 vs new Genesis GV70 vs Volvo XC40: verdict

Our verdict

As we mentioned at the outset, the X1 has never deserved a seat at the top of the family SUV class, and sadly, that hasn’t changed with the introduction of this third-generation model. It may be quick, frugal and impressively practical, but it is ultimately let down by its hatchback-like driving position, numb steering, firm ride and an interior that feels too cheap at this price point.

The other two make more compelling cases for themselves. The GV70’s swish interior and superb infotainment system alone will sell it to many, while its swift performance, comfortable ride and quiet cruising manners give it real substance.

However, the XC40 is competitive in all of those areas while also being better equipped and significantly cheaper to run (as long as you aren’t buying on PCP finance), as well as having a bigger boot. This version isn’t our favourite (that’s the plug-in hybrid Recharge T4), but it’s still strong enough for the XC40 to hold on to its crown.

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1st – Volvo XC40

For Comfiest ride; best driving position; well equipped; plush interior
Against Average infotainment; seats could be more flexible; expensive on finance; so-so performance
Recommended options None

What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5

Read our full Volvo XC40 review >>

Find Volvo XC40 deals >>

2nd – Genesis GV70

For Quietest at a cruise; impressive performance; fantastic infotainment; cheapest on PCP
Against Thirsty; costly to insure; least usable boot; desirable Innovation Pack is expensive
Recommended options Innovation Pack (£4190)

What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5

Read our full Genesis GV70 review >>

Find Genesis GV70 deals >>

3rd – BMW X1

For Biggest boot; most frugal; strong performance; roomy for two in rear seats
Against Firm ride; gruff engine note; flawed driving position; so-so interior quality
Recommended options Technology Plus Pack (£1150), adjustable lumbar support (£225)

What Car? rating 3 stars out of 5

Read our full BMW X1 review >>

Find BMW X1 deals >>

Specifications: BMW X1 xDrive23i M Sport (Pro Pack)

Engine 4cyl, 1998cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 215bhp at 5000-6000rpm
Peak torque 266Ib ft at 1500-4000rpm
Gearbox 7-spd automatic
0-60mph 6.7sec
30-70mph 6.2sec
Top speed 144mph
30-omph 12.8m
70-0mph 66.1m
Noise at 30mph 60db
Noise at 70mph 66.5db
Kerb weight 1730kg
Tyre size (std) 245/40 R20
Fuel tank 45 litres
CO2 emissions 150g/km

Specifications: Genesis GV70 2.5 Turbo Sport

Engine 4cyl, 2497cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 300bhp at 5800rpm
Peak torque 311Ib ft at 4000rpm
Gearbox 8-spd automatic
0-60mph 6.7sec
30-70mph 6.0sec
Top speed 149mph
30-omph 11.1m
70-0mph 61.6m
Noise at 30mph 58.8db
Noise at 70mph 65.2db
Kerb weight 1985kg
Tyre size (std) 235/55 R19
Fuel tank 66 litres
CO2 emissions 218g/km

Specifications: Volvo XC40 B4 FWD Ultimate

Engine 4cyl, 1969cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 194bhp at 4750-5250rpm
Peak torque 221Ib ft at 1500-4500rpm
Gearbox 7-spd automatic
0-60mph 6.6sec
30-70mph 7.3sec
Top speed 112mph
30-omph 10.8m
70-0mph 58.8m
Noise at 30mph 60.2db
Noise at 70mph 66.8db
Kerb weight 1617kg
Tyre size (std) 235/50 R19
Fuel tank 54 litres
CO2 emissions 152g/km

Test weather conditions Wet

Cars pictured

BMW X1 xDrive23i M Sport with Frozen Pure Grey paint (£2100), Tech Pack (£1150) and Comfort Pack (£1050)

Genesis GV70 2.5 Turbo Sport with Mauina Red metallic paint (£750), Nappa Leather Seat Pack (£2750), Innovation Pack (£4190), Comfort Seat Pack (£1470), Lexicon Premium Sound System (£790), 2nd Row Comfort Seat Pack (£600) and e-LSD (£450)

Volvo XC40 B4 FWD Ultimate with Thunder Grey metallic paint (£585)

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