The world of electric cars is getting more exciting every day, especially in the popular compact SUV segment. Two of the most compelling new entries are the Volvo EX30 and the BMW iX1. On the surface, they are both premium, all-electric SUVs aimed at a similar audience. However, they represent two completely different philosophies on what a modern electric car should be.
If you're in the market for a compact electric SUV, this head-to-head comparison will help you decide which one is right for you.
Design: Minimalist Future vs. Sporty Tradition
The first thing you notice is how different these two cars look.
The Volvo EX30 is the definition of modern Scandinavian minimalism. It has very clean, simple lines, a short and nimble stance, and unique lighting with pixel-style "Thor's Hammer" headlights. It looks fresh, futuristic, and feels designed for the digital age. It’s smaller than the iX1, making it feel more like a stylish, raised hatchback perfect for city life.
The BMW iX1, on the other hand, is unmistakably a BMW. It has the brand’s signature sporty and muscular look, with a bold front grille (closed for electric efficiency) and sharp, aggressive lines. It is larger, longer, and wider than the EX30, giving it a more substantial and traditional SUV presence on the road.
Verdict: This is purely down to personal taste. If you love a clean, futuristic look, the EX30 is a breath of fresh air. If you prefer a classic, sporty SUV design, the iX1 is the clear winner.
The Cabin Experience: A Tale of Two Philosophies
The differences become even more stark when you step inside.
The Volvo EX30 features a radically minimalist interior. Almost everything is controlled by a single, large, tablet-style touchscreen in the center of the dashboard. There is no traditional instrument cluster in front of the driver; even your speed is shown on the central screen. The cabin uses innovative, sustainable materials like recycled plastics and flax, which feel modern and eco-conscious but not traditionally luxurious. This screen-focused approach can be a deal-breaker for drivers who prefer physical buttons for common controls.
The BMW iX1 offers a more familiar and driver-focused cockpit. It features BMW’s beautiful Curved Display, which combines a digital driver’s display and a central infotainment screen into one seamless unit. Crucially, it retains some physical controls, including the excellent iDrive rotary dial on the center console, which makes using the system while driving much easier and safer. The interior feels solid and is trimmed in high-quality materials, delivering the conventional premium experience you expect from BMW.
Verdict: For user-friendliness and a premium feel, the BMW iX1 has the edge. Its combination of a driver’s display and physical controls is more practical for most people. The EX30’s interior is for the tech-savvy driver who is ready to embrace a screen-only future.
Performance: Raw Power vs. Refined Handling
Both cars are quick, but they deliver their performance in very different ways.
The Volvo EX30 is all about stunning acceleration. The standard single-motor version is already quick, but the top-tier Twin Motor Performance model is a true powerhouse. With 422 horsepower, it rockets from 0-60 mph in a mind-blowing 3.4 seconds. This is supercar-level speed in a small SUV. It’s a thrill in a straight line, though its handling is more comfortable than sporty.
The BMW iX1 is focused on a balanced and engaging driving experience. The all-wheel-drive xDrive30 model produces 308 horsepower and reaches 0-60 mph in a very respectable 5.4 seconds. While not as explosively fast as the top EX30, the iX1 shines in the corners. The steering is precise, the chassis feels planted, and it delivers the fun-to-drive character that BMW is famous for.
Verdict: If you want pure, straight-line acceleration that will push you back in your seat, the Volvo EX30 Twin Motor is in a class of its own. If you value a car that is rewarding and fun to drive on a winding road, the BMW iX1 is the superior choice.
Living With It: Space and Practicality
This is where the BMW’s larger size gives it a significant advantage.
The Volvo EX30 is a compact vehicle. The rear seats are best suited for children or for adults on shorter trips. The trunk space, at 318 litres, is similar to a small hatchback and may be a challenge for families with lots of gear.
The BMW iX1 is a proper compact family SUV. It offers significantly more legroom and headroom in the back, making it comfortable for adults. The trunk is far more generous at 490 litres, making it much better suited for luggage, shopping, and family life.
Verdict: The BMW iX1 is the clear winner on practicality. Its superior rear-seat and cargo space make it a much more versatile vehicle for families.
Range and Charging
When it comes to the electric essentials, both cars are very evenly matched. Both the EX30 (Extended Range) and the iX1 use a similarly sized battery pack (around 64 kWh).
Their DC fast-charging speeds are also comparable, meaning they will replenish their batteries in roughly the same amount of time at a public charger.
Verdict: It’s a tie. Range and charging performance are so close that they are unlikely to be a deciding factor between the two.
The Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
These are both excellent electric cars, but they are built for different people.
You should choose the Volvo EX30 if:
You should choose the BMW iX1 if:
Ultimately, the choice comes down to what you value most: the EX30’s disruptive tech and blistering speed, or the iX1’s polished driving dynamics and everyday practicality...
