Save $10,000 With a BMW X1 Over a Range Rover Evoque
Luxury SUVs hold the allure of prestige and style coupled with exemplary performance. However, for those with a discerning eye for value, the desire to save some money while still indulging in luxury holds true. If you’re looking for a good luxury SUV and have been eyeing the Range Rover Evoque, you can hold off on that and save $10,000 with the BMW X1.
The BMW X1’s pros and cons
The BMW X1 has for a long time been a favorite among people looking for a small luxury SUV. One of its best features is its infotainment system. The 2023 BMW X1 received a redesign with the automaker’s iDrive 8 infotainment system. The awkward rotary controller on older models was done away with for a 10.7-inch touchscreen mounted in the center of the dashboard.
Additionally, the 2023 model receives a power boost thanks to the turbocharged engine that offers 13 hp more than the outgoing model. Its redesigned suspension improves stability and handling, making it a fun car to drive. The vehicle also gets a 2-mpg increase in fuel economy. The latest model offers an EPA-estimated 25 mpg on city roads and 34 mpg on the highway with a combined 28 mpg.
However, despite receiving tech upgrades such as an augmented-reality function and live video feed, the cumbersome climate controls are a source of concern. The rear legroom is also pinched, which may be a problem for taller adults.
The best and worst parts of the Range Rover Evoque
The Land Rover Range Rover Evoque already has its name going for it. The brand has established itself as a luxury car manufacturer and has experienced significant success, especially with luxury SUVs. Its chic, plush interior is also a plus. The vehicle comes with a leather material, but you can order one with textured cloth upholstery that covers the seats, dashboard, and door panels.
However, like the X1, its back seat is pinched, perhaps even tighter than the X1. Additionally, the car takes significantly longer (7.1 seconds) to get to 60 mph. Some people may also frown at the costly base price, which is higher than most cars in its segment.
For context, the Volvo XC40 starts at $41,295, while the Mercedes-Benz GLB-class has a starting MSRP of $42,000. The Evoque also has subpar fuel economy, delivering 20 mpg on city roads and 27 mpg on the highway.
Comparing the X1 vs. Range Rover prices
The BMW X1 and Range Rover Evoque often go head-to-head in the luxury SUV comparison, but only one comes out ahead. The 2023 X1 only has one trim to choose from, narrowing down your options, and it comes with standard all-wheel drive. BMW decided to do away with the front-wheel drive sDrive28i version.
The xDrive28i has a starting price of $40,095 and gets its power from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 241 hp. The vehicle takes 5.4 seconds to get to 60 mph. The Range Rover Evoque, on the other hand, comes in two trims, the S and Dynamic SE. The base trim has a starting MSRP of $51,075, while the top trim starts at $56,075.
Pop the hood, and you’ll be greeted with a 2.0-liter cylinder engine that generates 246 hp. Like the X1, the Evoque is also all-wheel drive. The X1 comes second after the Volvo XC40 on Car and Driver‘s list of the best subcompact luxury SUVs, with a 9 out of 10 rating, while the Evoque comes in 11th place with a 7.5 rating.
U.S. News ranked the BMW X1 first with an 8.9 score, with the Range Rover Evoque coming in seventh with a 7.2 score. For the price you’d pay for the Evoque, you’d be better off buying the X1, which offers more value for money and still saves you a whopping $10,000.