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BMW I3 vs Volvo XC40

What's the difference?

VS
BMW I3
BMW I3

2020 price

Volvo XC40
Volvo XC40

$49,990 - $83,888

2024 price

Summary

2020 BMW I3
2024 Volvo XC40
Safety Rating

Engine Type
0.0L

0.0L
Fuel Type
Electric

Electric
Fuel Efficiency
0.0L/100km (combined)

0.0L/100km (combined)
Seating
5

5
Dislikes
  • Pricey
  • Tight rear room
  • Short warranty

  • Ride comfort isn't there on long journeys
  • Loud cabin at higher speeds
  • Interior trims don't match grade level
2020 BMW I3 Summary

It’s easy to forget BMW was paddling into the growing electric vehicle wave when it was only a gentle swell. It took off early with the i3 city car, which believe it or not has been in the Aussie new car market for six years.

While the German maker has long been developing the concept of electrified powertrains in existing models, the i3 was the result of a dramatically different approach, showcasing the use of exotic materials and innovative packaging.

Like its i8 supercar sibling, the i3 won’t be replaced with a new-generation version, but BMW says it will continue to develop this high-tech hatch before it departs, and we spent a week in the sporty i3s to see how it stands up in 2020. 

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2024 Volvo XC40 Summary

The XC40 Recharge Twin Motor is the flagship model for the segment leading small electric SUV from Volvo.

Well positioned in terms of price, specifications and driving range, it continues to prove itself a fierce rival to the Mercedes-Benz EQA, Lexus UX and newcomer BMW iX1.

But does it bring its A-game to every attribute buyers in the small electric SUV segment demand? In this review, we put it to test to find out.

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Deep dive comparison

2020 BMW I3 2024 Volvo XC40

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