In a rapidly electrifying world, luxury brands are stepping up to make EVs more accessible and exciting. For Indian buyers looking for their first premium electric SUV, two options stand out in the ₹50–60 lakh bracket: the BMW iX1 eDrive20 LWB and the newly named Volvo EX40 (previously sold as XC40 Recharge).
Both are feature-rich, city-friendly EVs with luxury badges, strong tech, and long-term ownership perks. But which one is right for you? Let’s break it down based on key real-world differentiators that matter.
Note: Volvo XC40 Recharge has now been renamed to Volvo EX40 in India.
Powertrain & Performance
| Specification | BMW iX1 eDrive20L | Volvo EX40 (Single Motor) |
| Power | 204 hp | 238 hp |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 420 Nm |
| 0–100 km/h | 8.6 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 180 km/h |
| Range (Claimed) | 531 km | 475 km |
While both SUVs are powered by single electric motors, the Volvo’s rear-wheel-drive layout and stronger torque figures make it more exciting to drive. The BMW, with its front-wheel setup, offers a composed and predictable drive that’s great for urban use.
Battery & Range
In terms of range and battery, both SUVs feature similar capacity packs—roughly 69 kWh in the case of the Volvo and an estimated similar size for the BMW, though BMW hasn’t officially disclosed the exact figure. The iX1 claims a range of 531 km on the MIDC cycle, while the Volvo EX40 is rated for 475 km on the more realistic WLTP cycle. In real-world use, expect about 400–420 km from the BMW and around 370–390 km from the Volvo.
Volvo has a slight edge when it comes to DC fast-charging, with compatibility up to 150 kW, while BMW tops out around 130 kW. For most users, this difference will be noticeable only on long road trips where fast top-ups matter.
Home Charging & Support
Both brands have equipped their EVs to handle urban charging with ease. The BMW iX1 comes with an 11 kW wallbox and access to over 5000 chargers across India. BMW also provides EV concierge support and an integrated app to help you plan routes with charger visibility.
The Volvo EX40 offers a similarly capable 11 kW onboard AC charger and supports faster 150 kW DC chargers. Its companion app gives you remote access to charging status and can precondition the cabin while plugged in.
Verdict: Both offer solid home charging setups, but BMW edges ahead with concierge services and integration with BMW Financial Services for EV packages.
Interior Experience & Comfort
| Feature | BMW iX1 eDrive20L | Volvo EX40 |
| Rear Seat Recline | Yes (Maximum angle – 28.5 degrees) | No |
| Upholstery | Veganza (Vegan Leather) | Microtech/Suede |
| Infotainment System | 10.7-inch with voice command | 9 inch with built-in Google |
| Sound System | Harman Kardon (12 speakers) | Harman Kardon (13 speakers) |
| Ride Quality | Comfort-tuned | Slightly firmer, sportier |
The iX1’s cabin is more traditional, plush, and rear-seat friendly, making it suitable for both self-driving and chauffeur-driven users. The Volvo’s minimal design and firmer ride give it a sportier edge, with excellent ergonomics and a touch of Scandinavian simplicity.
Tech & Driving Aids
Tech lovers will appreciate both cabins. The iX1 gets BMW’s latest Operating System 9 with a curved display layout that includes a 10.25″ digital cluster and a 10.7″ infotainment screen. It’s fluid, fast, and feels futuristic.
Volvo counters with an Android-based OS that’s tightly integrated with Google services, including Maps and Assistant. The 12.3″ driver display is crisp, and the system receives over-the-air updates just like the BMW.
When it comes to safety, Volvo leans into its reputation by offering a more comprehensive ADAS suite with lane assist, blind spot monitoring, and autonomous emergency braking. BMW includes essential aids like reverse assist, blind spot detection, and 360-degree parking but keeps some features more manual.
Price & Value
Pricing plays a key role. The BMW iX1 is priced around ₹49.00 lakh ex-showroom, making it more affordable than the Volvo EX40, which starts at ₹50.10 lakh. That gap is significant, especially when you consider the BMW’s feature-loaded package.
However, the Volvo counters with its strong ADAS suite, faster charging support, and a marginally more powerful motor, giving buyers real value in terms of tech and performance. Both offer long-term battery warranties (Volvo: 8 years, BMW: up to 10 years with extension), so peace of mind is built in.
Still undecided? Book your test drive through Motozite for a premium, personalized experience. Our dedicated advisors will help you compare both the BMW iX1 and the Volvo EX40 side-by-side and assist you in finding the perfect luxury EV that matches your preferences at the best price.
Remember: the XC40 Recharge is now officially badged as the Volvo EX40 in India.