Volvo XC40 vs BMW X1: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Volvo XC40 and BMW X1, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 301,315 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The Volvo XC40 edges ahead in this comparison with a 93% MOT pass rate versus 88% for the BMW X1. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Volvo XC40 has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the BMW X1 may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Volvo XC40
93%
MOT pass rate
100,928 tests
More reliableBMW X1
88%
MOT pass rate
200,387 tests
Full Comparison: Volvo XC40 vs BMW X1
| Category | Volvo XC40 | BMW X1 |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 93%Winner | 88% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 7%Winner | 12% |
| vs All-Model Avg | +11 ptsWinner | +6 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,814 | £1,814 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 18-28 | 25-35 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £2,000-£3,500 |
| Engine Size | 1.8L | 2.0L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Hybrid | Diesel, Petrol |
| Segment | Premium | Premium |
| Avg Mileage | 34,344 miWinner | 68,415 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 100,928 | 200,387 |
| Model Years | 5 years | 14 years |
| Best Year | 2020 (93%) | 2019 (93%) |
| Worst Year | 2018 (91%)Winner | 2009 (81%) |
| Reliability Trend | Stable | ImprovingWinner |
Pass rates are the share of MOT tests that ended in a pass (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included), across all years of each model. Best and worst years need at least 100 tests. Fuel cost, insurance group and depreciation are our rough estimates from engine size and make, not official figures.
Common Problems Comparison
Typical issues to check on cars of this type and age, not faults measured for these models.
Volvo XC40: Typical Issues to Check
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
BMW X1: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Higher tyre and brake wear (larger engine)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
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Volvo XC40 vs BMW X1 FAQ
Can I compare a Volvo XC40 and BMW X1 by registration plate?
Yes. Enter each car's UK registration plate on this page or use our free compare tool at carcostcheck.co.uk/compare to see MOT history, mileage, health scores and running costs for the exact vehicles you are considering, not just model averages.
Which is more reliable, the Volvo XC40 or BMW X1?
The Volvo XC40 has the higher MOT pass rate, 93% compared to 88% for the BMW X1 (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Volvo XC40 or BMW X1?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Volvo XC40 costs around £1,814 in fuel, while the BMW X1 costs around £1,814 (our estimates for petrol versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 19 October 2026). On these estimates they cost the same in fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Volvo XC40 or BMW X1?
The Volvo XC40 edges ahead in this comparison with a 93% MOT pass rate versus 88% for the BMW X1. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Volvo XC40 has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the BMW X1 may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Volvo XC40 Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
BMW X1 Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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