Used test: BMW X1 vs Volkswagen Tiguan vs Volvo XC40: verdict

Our verdict

It's easy to say that everyone's a winner here, and all three cars have noteworthy merits. However, one car has to come third and, in this case, it's the BMW X1.

Its punchy engine leads the way for performance, while strong practicality, interior quality and its superb infotainment system are further highlights. Unfortunately, below-par refinement, a harsh ride and high running costs dull the X1’s lustre.

The Volkswagen Tiguan ranks in second. It does solidly in most areas, majoring on seating flexibility and equipment. On the other hand, while it's comfier than the X1, it’s still far from supple in R-Line form. It also has the least plush interior.

The luxurious and roomy Volvo XC40 has a seriously impressive interior, a great driving position and a smoother ride and better refinement than both rivals. These plus points add up greatly, making it the clear winner.

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1st – Volvo XC40

For Supple ride; most refined; best driving position; quality interior; safety kit
Against Fiddly infotainment; road noise; so-so handling

What Car? rating Five stars out of five

Read our full used Volvo XC40 review >>

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2nd – Volkswagen Tiguan

For Tidy handling; sliding and reclining rear seats; most standard kit; comfiest in the rear
Against Jiggly ride; boomy engine; least plush interior

What Car? rating Four stars out of five

Read our full used Volkswagen Tiguan review >>

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3rd – BMW X1

For Biggest boot; seating flexibility; superb infotainment; best performance; smart interior finish
Against Harsh ride; too much road noise; least safety kit

What Car? rating Four stars out of five

Read our full used BMW X1 review >>

Find used BMW X1s for sale >>

Specifications: BMW X1 xDrive25d M Sport

Engine size 2.0-litre diesel
Power 228bhp @ 4400rpm
Torque 332lb ft @ 1500-3000rpm
0-60mph 6.8sec
Top speed 146mph
Fuel economy 56.5mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 132g/km

Specifications: Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 TDI 190 4Motion R-Line DSG

Engine size 2.0-litre diesel
Power 187bhp @ 3500-4000rpm
Torque 295lb ft @ 1950-3300rpm
0-60mph 8.4sec
Top speed 131mph
Fuel economy 49.4mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 149g/km

Specifications: Volvo XC40 2.0 D4 AWD R-Design Pro

Engine size 2.0-litre diesel
Power 187bhp @ 4000rpm
Torque 295lb ft @ 1750-2500rpm
0-60mph 8.2sec
Top speed 130mph
Fuel economy 56.5mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 133g/km

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