10 BMW X1 Competitors to Consider

2016 BMW X1 white ・ Photo by BMW

We offer 10 BMW X1 competitors to consider because someone might want to be different, and they may not desire a premium small crossover that’s one of the most fun drives in its class. Or perhaps they just want to see what’s out there instead of heading straight for the BMW dealership (smart move).

However, before going into the alternatives, we should get a brief picture of what the X1 crossover/SUV offers. The 2018 model starts at $34,895. A 228-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter/4-cylinder engine drives the front wheels or, for an extra $2,000, all four. Cargo space is 27.1 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 58.7 when they’re down. OK, now let’s explore.

2019 Audi Q3

We’re putting forward the 2019 version of the Audi Q3 because it’s the first of the new generation, on sale later in 2018. At the time of compiling this list, information is scarce, but this vehicle is a natural rival to the X1. It might not offer such generous interior space as the X1 (the wheelbase is three inches longer than the first generation, however), but a 230-hp engine is anticipated, along with many advanced driver assistance features and Audi’s excellent Virtual Cockpit. The option of all-wheel drive is a given, as is superb styling. The outgoing model starts at $33,875, so the new model is probably going to be priced similar to the 2019 BMW X1.

Photo by Audi

2019 Cadillac XT4

Technically, the Cadillac XT4 is one size up from the X1, making it more of a logical rival to the BMW X3. But it’s priced keenly (from $35,790), so potential buyers hoping for more rear passenger space might want to consider it when it goes on sale in fall 2018. The XT4 comes with a generous 39.5 inches of rear legroom (the X1 has a still-respectable 37 inches). However, cargo space (22.5/48.9 cubic feet) is not as good. On the positive side, its 2.0-liter/4-cylinder engine is turbocharged to make 237 hp. And styling-wise, the XT4 might just move the meter of someone who finds BMW design a little predictable these days.

Photo by General Motors

2018 Infiniti QX30

The QX30 sticks to the same naming convention as Infiniti’s larger SUV/crossovers, but in reality it blurs the lines between that vehicle classification and a hatchback with a slightly raised ride height. Its engine has 20 fewer horses than the X1, yet the same amount of torque (258 lb-ft), so it shouldn’t feel lackluster by comparison. The QX30 also is based on the same platform as the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class (more on that vehicle later), but comes with a lower starting price of $30,945. That’s almost $3,500 less than the Benz and nearly $4,000 cheaper than the X1, which might leave money on the table to go for the highest trim level which includes optional driver assistance features.

Photo by Infiniti

2018 Jaguar E-Pace

When critics try to find something negative about the BMW X1, they usually mention how cabin noise is higher than it should be for a premium vehicle, and that the ride is on the firm side. No one ever says that about the Jaguar E-PACE. It’s sophisticated and refined, yet still has plenty of appeal for drivers and passengers alike. Even the least powerful of its two offered engines is more muscular than the X1’s (the E-Pace comes with 246 or 296 hp), and all-wheel drive is standard. Such positive info might soften the blow that comes when checking out the E-Pace’s starting price of $39,595. The E-Pace's cargo space also gives ground to the X1 at 24.2/52.5 cubic feet.

Photo by Jaguar Land Rover

2018 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque

Apart from offering this category’s only convertible version, the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque was one of the first premium crossovers to come in petite size. The fact that it comes from Land Rover also means it has off-roading ability that goes beyond what most people would ever need (it can tackle 19 inches of standing water), thanks to a Terrain Response system, useful ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive. The base engine provides 237 hp (a little more than the X1), while a 286-hp version is available in the two highest trim levels. However, this luxurious little Range Rover model is relatively expensive, starting at $42,795. Admittedly, that includes things like navigation, leather upholstery and 12-way power-adjustable front seats.

Photo by Land Rover

2019 Lexus UX

If buyers can wait until December 2018, they may put the all-new Lexus UX on their test-drive list. They might have to develop even more patience, since the gasoline engine in the UX 200 only provides 168 hp and the hybrid UX 250h (the only UX variant with all-wheel drive) manages a mere 176 hp in total. Pricing will be announced nearer the on-sale date, but we can expect it to be competitive. And if it’s anything like the RX and NX, then we can also expect that people won’t be able to buy enough of them. Lexus vehicles are built well, retain strong values and drive glassily smooth. The UX should follow the same successful formula.

Photo by Lexus

2019 Mazda CX-3

No, the Mazda CX-3 isn’t a premium crossover. Many of us would love an X1, but don’t have the funds. If that's the case, check out the revised CX-3. The most readily apparent quality is the exterior design that wouldn’t look wrong with a much more prestigious badge stuck on it. The cabin has similar upscale aspirations, but the best part is the driving. Of all the mainstream-branded crossovers, the CX-3 stands grille and fenders above the rest. Someone who appreciates BMW’s typical ride and handling abilities will find plenty to like, although more power than 148 hp wouldn’t go amiss. Total cargo space is 44.5 cubic feet and the most expensive trim, Grand Touring, starts at a relatively reasonable $28,140.

Photo by Mazda

2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250

We mentioned the connection with Infiniti QX30. The GLA’s engine has the same output. But as well as that much-prized 3-pointed star on the nose, this small crossover/SUV/high hatchback includes a powered tailgate as standard. It starts at $34,395 and all-wheel drive (known as 4Matic) is another $2,000, like the X1. Average fuel consumption with front-wheel drive is estimated to be 27 mpg, beating its Munich rival by one mile per gallon. The GLA doesn’t have the same driving experience as the X1, however, which may be a good thing for some people. It’s a refined ride and a pleasant, well-rounded package. Anyone considering a small luxury crossover ought to have this on their list.

Photo by Mercedes-Benz

2018 Mini Cooper Countryman/ E All4

The Mini Cooper Countryman is based on the same platform as the X1, so naturally it offers plenty of driving fun, as well as the option of all-wheel drive. Enthusiasts also will welcome the availability of a manual transmission in some versions. The entry price is suitably mini, from $27,450. But that means a less-than-energetic 134-hp 3-cylinder turbocharged engine. Better to look at the Cooper S with a 189-hp turbo-4 starting at $32,050. However, the Countryman range also includes the E All4, which is a plug-in hybrid with 221 hp and all-wheel drive as standard, priced from $37,650. Cargo space in the regular versions runs to 17.6/47.6 cubic feet.

Photo by MINI

2019 Volvo XC40

The Volvo XC40 is an all-new model for 2019. It’s the smallest crossover/SUV from Volvo, yet still adheres to the marque’s well-loved styling philosophy responsible for the XC90 and XC60 crossovers, plus the arguably handsome S90 sedan. The interior is similarly elegant. A front-drive T4 model in Momentum trim starts at $34,195. This involves a turbocharged 2.0-liter/4-cylinder engine making 187 hp. But since this list is called “10 BMW X1 Competitors to Consider,” the 248-hp T5 drivetrain makes for a more fair comparison. It comes with all-wheel drive and starts at $36,195. Maximum cargo space is 57.5 cubic feet. Remember that Volvo vehicles also offer a lot of desirable safety features and have super-comfortable seats.

Photo by Volvo