As we venture further into the era of sustainable transportation, electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a niche novelty but a mainstream choice for consumers. In response to this increasing popularity, car manufacturers globally are expanding their portfolio with EVs that cater to various needs and tastes. Two such noteworthy EVs are the BMW iX3 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge.
These models, despite their premium heritage, are positioned within reach of the average EV buyer, with the BMW iX3 retailing at a recommended price of £63,260 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge starting at £46,505 in the UK market. This article aims to provide an in-depth comparison between these two popular EVs, enabling prospective buyers to make an informed decision.
The BMW iX3 represents a harmonious blend of the brand's legendary driving dynamics and cutting-edge electric technology. At its heart is BMW's fifth-generation eDrive technology, producing 286 horsepower and achieving a range of up to 285 miles on a single charge.
The iX3 boasts impressive acceleration, reaching 62mph in just 6.8 seconds, and maintains a balance between performance and efficiency. The SUV retains BMW's signature design elements like the kidney grille, subtly hinting at its electric nature while keeping the classic BMW aesthetic intact. With its premium, spacious interiors and seamless infotainment system, the BMW iX3 is an attractive proposition in the EV market.
On the other hand, the Volvo XC40 Recharge brings the brand's commitment to safety and environmental responsibility into the EV space. With twin electric motors producing a combined 408 horsepower, this model proves that sustainability doesn't need to compromise on performance.
The XC40 Recharge boasts an impressive range of around 215 miles and can sprint to 62mph in a mere 4.9 seconds. Known for its superior safety standards, Volvo doesn't disappoint with this EV, packing numerous safety and driver-assist features. The car stands out with its bold design, roomy cabin and cutting-edge infotainment system, providing an exciting and secure driving experience.
The BMW iX3 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge embody their brands' essences in electric vehicle form, bringing premium features, performance and safety to the forefront. They are strong contenders in the rapidly growing EV market, catering to a similar demographic but offering distinctive driving experiences.
In the forthcoming sections, we will thoroughly compare these cars, providing a complete perspective so you can decide which EV suits you.
The exterior design of a car is more than just aesthetics – it often defines the first impression and sets the tone for the overall driving experience.
The BMW iX3 stands out with its aerodynamically optimised shape and iconic BMW features. It holds on to the classic kidney grille and mixes in blue accents to subtly indicate its electric character. The adaptive LED headlights and the sculpted lines all around give it a sporty yet elegant appearance.
In contrast, the Volvo XC40 Recharge showcases a more modernistic approach to design. Its front grille is replaced with a solid panel with the Volvo logo, symbolising its departure from internal combustion engines. The striking Thor's hammer LED headlights, bold body lines and contrasting roof provide a dynamic and stylish look.
The BMW iX3 provides a more traditional luxury appeal, whereas the Volvo XC40 Recharge pushes towards a contemporary, bold design language. The decision between the two hinges on whether you prefer a subtle and elegant design or a bold and futuristic one.
On the inside, both vehicles carry forward their respective brand's high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The cabin of the BMW iX3 is elegantly crafted with Vernasca leather seats, ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof. The driver-focused cockpit, combined with the latest version of BMW's iDrive infotainment system, adds to the driving pleasure. BMW's Live Cockpit Professional provides a high-resolution instrument cluster behind the steering wheel and a large central display, ensuring that essential information is always within sight.
The Volvo XC40 Recharge, on the other hand, adopts a minimalist Scandinavian design language. The interior features a blend of high-quality materials, including genuine leather and recycled plastics. What sets the Volvo apart is its Google-powered infotainment system, providing seamless integration with Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play Store.
While the BMW iX3 offers a driver-centric experience with its cutting-edge iDrive system, the Volvo XC40 Recharge's interior stands out with its environmentally-friendly materials and superior Google integration. It again boils down to individual preference, whether you prioritise a driving-focused design or an eco-friendly, tech-focused cabin.
Practicality is a key aspect when considering any vehicle purchase, especially for those considering SUVs that are expected to serve multiple purposes.
The BMW iX3 and Volvo XC40 Recharge offer seating for five adults, with generous headroom and legroom in both front and back.
Regarding luggage space, the Volvo XC40 Recharge offers a generous 414 litres, which can be expanded to 1,328 litres with the rear seats folded. An additional 31-litre 'frunk' (front trunk) is available due to the absence of an engine. In comparison, the BMW iX3 provides a slightly larger boot capacity of 510 litres, which expands to 1,560 litres with the rear seats folded down, but it lacks a frunk.
Performance is often a defining factor for many buyers, particularly when it comes to electric vehicles, where the driving experience is different from conventional petrol or diesel cars.
The BMW iX3, with its single electric motor, produces 286 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 6.8 seconds. With its rear-wheel-drive architecture, it manages to provide a balanced driving experience.
In contrast, the Volvo XC40 Recharge, with its dual electric motor setup, churns out 408 horsepower, and its 0 to 62mph time stands at an impressive 4.9 seconds. Being an all-wheel-drive vehicle, it provides better traction and stability, especially in challenging driving conditions.
While the Volvo XC40 Recharge is quicker off the line and provides the confidence of all-wheel drive, the BMW iX3 offers a slightly better range and the traditional rear-wheel-drive charm. The choice would largely depend on what you value more: outright speed and all-weather capability or driving range and driving dynamics.
The range of an electric vehicle is one of the most significant considerations for prospective buyers. It's crucial to understand how far the car can travel on a single charge and how this might affect its everyday usability.
The BMW iX3 leads the duo in this regard with a single charge range of up to 285 miles, courtesy of a 74 kWh battery. This ensures the car can handle daily commuting and longer trips relatively easily.
The Volvo XC40 Recharge, powered by a 78 kWh battery, offers a slightly lower range of approximately 215 miles on a full charge. Although this is less than the BMW iX3, it still outperforms many other electric vehicles on the market and is more than sufficient for most daily driving requirements.
While the driving range is vital, equally important is how quickly the vehicle can be recharged, affecting its practicality and usability during long-distance travel.
Both cars support fast charging via a DC supply. The BMW iX3 can be charged at speeds of up to 150 kW, allowing it to recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 34 minutes. On a typical 7.4 kW home wall box, a full charge can be achieved overnight in about 11 hours.
The Volvo XC40 Recharge allows charging at rates up to 150 kW DC, enabling it to recover from 10% to 80% in around 40 minutes. A full recharge on a standard home charger will take roughly 8 to 10 hours.
It's worth noting that frequently charging between 10% and 80% is usually recommended for maintaining optimum battery health. For locating the best charging stations with optimal speeds, download the Bonnet app today.
Whether you're drawn to the BMW iX3's slightly superior range or the Volvo XC40 Recharge's competitive charging times will depend on your driving habits and requirements. Both vehicles offer compelling options regarding range and charging capabilities in the EV market.
In the UK, the BMW iX3 has a starting price of £63,260. The Volvo XC40 Recharge has a starting price of £46,505.
In terms of value for money, both cars offer many features that justify their respective price tags. While the Volvo XC40 Recharge is more affordable and well-equipped, the BMW iX3, though more expensive, offers a more extensive choice of trims and a slightly better range.
There are a few notable competitors for those interested in exploring more options in the same price range. The Audi Q4 e-tron, priced from around £49,915, offers a stylish design and great performance. The Mercedes-Benz EQA, starting at £52,010, offers luxury and refinement, coupled with the brand's powerful EV technology.
Alternatively, the Tesla Model Y could be a compelling choice. It offers good range, rapid acceleration and access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network. Prices start from around £44,990.
While each of these alternatives presents its own set of strengths, the BMW iX3 and Volvo XC40 Recharge continue to be strong contenders in the market, given their blend of brand heritage, performance, range and premium features. As always, the best choice will depend on individual preferences, budget and specific requirements.
Choosing between the BMW iX3 and Volvo XC40 Recharge is no easy task. Both vehicles offer a unique blend of style, luxury, performance and practicality.
In terms of performance, the Volvo XC40 Recharge takes the lead with its 408-horsepower dual electric motor setup, providing quicker acceleration and all-wheel-drive confidence. However, the BMW iX3, with its 286 horsepower electric motor, offers a more balanced and traditional rear-wheel-drive experience, coupled with a slightly superior range of up to 285 miles, compared to Volvo's 215 miles.
When it comes to charging, both cars are nearly on par, supporting DC fast charging that can refill the battery from 10% to 80% in less than 40 minutes. The BMW edges ahead slightly with a shorter charging duration.
Price-wise, the Volvo XC40 Recharge is the more affordable option starting at £53,155. However, the BMW iX3, despite its higher starting price of £58,850, offers additional customisation with its two available trims.
Examining the exteriors, the BMW iX3 presents a traditional luxurious appeal, while the Volvo XC40 Recharge adopts a contemporary, bold look. The interiors of both cars mirror their respective brand identities, with BMW offering a driver-focused cabin and Volvo showcasing a minimalist Scandinavian design.
Considering practicality, both vehicles offer similar levels of spaciousness and comfort, although the BMW iX3 has a slightly larger boot capacity.
Ultimately, the choice between these remarkable vehicles comes down to personal preference. If you value a more powerful drive, a modern aesthetic and a lower entry price, the Volvo XC40 Recharge would be an excellent choice. However, if a greater driving range, traditional luxury and a performance-oriented experience are more your speed, then the BMW iX3 is hard to beat.
These vehicles exemplify the exciting advancements in the EV market, offering sustainable transport and vehicles that deliver an all-around exceptional driving experience.
As an EV driver, you've likely experienced the frustration of trying to find a reliable and convenient charging station. The process can be time-consuming and unpredictable, often leaving you wondering if you'll reach your destination without running out of power. But what if there was a solution that could make charging your EV as easy as using your smartphone?
Enter Bonnet, the must-have app for EV drivers everywhere. Bonnet is designed to make EV charging a breeze, providing access to more than 6,000 public chargers internationally. With Bonnet, you can say goodbye to range anxiety and hello to a seamless charging experience.
Bonnet offers a unique feature called Bonnet Boosts. For a small monthly fee, you can save up to 15% on the cost of charging, regardless of the charger's speed, network or location. This means more money in your pocket to spend on what really matters.
With Bonnet, you also get access to the largest network of public chargers in Europe. Whether you're charging at home or on the go, Bonnet makes it easy to find a charging point when you really need it. The app's user-friendly interface makes locating your nearest available charging points simple, removing the stress and hassle of the charging process.
In short, Bonnet is the easy way to charge your EV on the go. It's a game-changer for EV drivers, offering reliable, cheaper charging from all of the best EV charging networks in the UK and Europe. So why wait? Download Bonnet today and make charging easy.
Cars similar to the XC40 Recharge include the BMW iX3, Audi Q4 e-tron and Mercedes-Benz EQA, all of which are electric SUVs offering similar features and performance.
The Volvo XC40 Recharge's main competitors include the BMW iX3, Audi Q4 e-tron, Mercedes-Benz EQA and Tesla Model Y.
Cars similar to the BMW iX3 include the Volvo XC40 Recharge, Audi Q4 e-tron and Tesla Model Y, offering similar electric SUV features, luxury and performance.
The BMW iX3 can travel up to 285 miles on a full charge, depending on driving conditions and usage.
As we venture further into the era of sustainable transportation, electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a niche novelty but a mainstream choice for consumers. In response to this increasing popularity, car manufacturers globally are expanding their portfolio with EVs that cater to various needs and tastes. Two such noteworthy EVs are the BMW iX3 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge.
These models, despite their premium heritage, are positioned within reach of the average EV buyer, with the BMW iX3 retailing at a recommended price of £63,260 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge starting at £46,505 in the UK market. This article aims to provide an in-depth comparison between these two popular EVs, enabling prospective buyers to make an informed decision.
The BMW iX3 represents a harmonious blend of the brand's legendary driving dynamics and cutting-edge electric technology. At its heart is BMW's fifth-generation eDrive technology, producing 286 horsepower and achieving a range of up to 285 miles on a single charge.
The iX3 boasts impressive acceleration, reaching 62mph in just 6.8 seconds, and maintains a balance between performance and efficiency. The SUV retains BMW's signature design elements like the kidney grille, subtly hinting at its electric nature while keeping the classic BMW aesthetic intact. With its premium, spacious interiors and seamless infotainment system, the BMW iX3 is an attractive proposition in the EV market.
On the other hand, the Volvo XC40 Recharge brings the brand's commitment to safety and environmental responsibility into the EV space. With twin electric motors producing a combined 408 horsepower, this model proves that sustainability doesn't need to compromise on performance.
The XC40 Recharge boasts an impressive range of around 215 miles and can sprint to 62mph in a mere 4.9 seconds. Known for its superior safety standards, Volvo doesn't disappoint with this EV, packing numerous safety and driver-assist features. The car stands out with its bold design, roomy cabin and cutting-edge infotainment system, providing an exciting and secure driving experience.
The BMW iX3 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge embody their brands' essences in electric vehicle form, bringing premium features, performance and safety to the forefront. They are strong contenders in the rapidly growing EV market, catering to a similar demographic but offering distinctive driving experiences.
In the forthcoming sections, we will thoroughly compare these cars, providing a complete perspective so you can decide which EV suits you.
The exterior design of a car is more than just aesthetics – it often defines the first impression and sets the tone for the overall driving experience.
The BMW iX3 stands out with its aerodynamically optimised shape and iconic BMW features. It holds on to the classic kidney grille and mixes in blue accents to subtly indicate its electric character. The adaptive LED headlights and the sculpted lines all around give it a sporty yet elegant appearance.
In contrast, the Volvo XC40 Recharge showcases a more modernistic approach to design. Its front grille is replaced with a solid panel with the Volvo logo, symbolising its departure from internal combustion engines. The striking Thor's hammer LED headlights, bold body lines and contrasting roof provide a dynamic and stylish look.
The BMW iX3 provides a more traditional luxury appeal, whereas the Volvo XC40 Recharge pushes towards a contemporary, bold design language. The decision between the two hinges on whether you prefer a subtle and elegant design or a bold and futuristic one.
On the inside, both vehicles carry forward their respective brand's high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The cabin of the BMW iX3 is elegantly crafted with Vernasca leather seats, ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof. The driver-focused cockpit, combined with the latest version of BMW's iDrive infotainment system, adds to the driving pleasure. BMW's Live Cockpit Professional provides a high-resolution instrument cluster behind the steering wheel and a large central display, ensuring that essential information is always within sight.
The Volvo XC40 Recharge, on the other hand, adopts a minimalist Scandinavian design language. The interior features a blend of high-quality materials, including genuine leather and recycled plastics. What sets the Volvo apart is its Google-powered infotainment system, providing seamless integration with Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play Store.
While the BMW iX3 offers a driver-centric experience with its cutting-edge iDrive system, the Volvo XC40 Recharge's interior stands out with its environmentally-friendly materials and superior Google integration. It again boils down to individual preference, whether you prioritise a driving-focused design or an eco-friendly, tech-focused cabin.
Practicality is a key aspect when considering any vehicle purchase, especially for those considering SUVs that are expected to serve multiple purposes.
The BMW iX3 and Volvo XC40 Recharge offer seating for five adults, with generous headroom and legroom in both front and back.
Regarding luggage space, the Volvo XC40 Recharge offers a generous 414 litres, which can be expanded to 1,328 litres with the rear seats folded. An additional 31-litre 'frunk' (front trunk) is available due to the absence of an engine. In comparison, the BMW iX3 provides a slightly larger boot capacity of 510 litres, which expands to 1,560 litres with the rear seats folded down, but it lacks a frunk.
Performance is often a defining factor for many buyers, particularly when it comes to electric vehicles, where the driving experience is different from conventional petrol or diesel cars.
The BMW iX3, with its single electric motor, produces 286 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 6.8 seconds. With its rear-wheel-drive architecture, it manages to provide a balanced driving experience.
In contrast, the Volvo XC40 Recharge, with its dual electric motor setup, churns out 408 horsepower, and its 0 to 62mph time stands at an impressive 4.9 seconds. Being an all-wheel-drive vehicle, it provides better traction and stability, especially in challenging driving conditions.
While the Volvo XC40 Recharge is quicker off the line and provides the confidence of all-wheel drive, the BMW iX3 offers a slightly better range and the traditional rear-wheel-drive charm. The choice would largely depend on what you value more: outright speed and all-weather capability or driving range and driving dynamics.
The range of an electric vehicle is one of the most significant considerations for prospective buyers. It's crucial to understand how far the car can travel on a single charge and how this might affect its everyday usability.
The BMW iX3 leads the duo in this regard with a single charge range of up to 285 miles, courtesy of a 74 kWh battery. This ensures the car can handle daily commuting and longer trips relatively easily.
The Volvo XC40 Recharge, powered by a 78 kWh battery, offers a slightly lower range of approximately 215 miles on a full charge. Although this is less than the BMW iX3, it still outperforms many other electric vehicles on the market and is more than sufficient for most daily driving requirements.
While the driving range is vital, equally important is how quickly the vehicle can be recharged, affecting its practicality and usability during long-distance travel.
Both cars support fast charging via a DC supply. The BMW iX3 can be charged at speeds of up to 150 kW, allowing it to recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 34 minutes. On a typical 7.4 kW home wall box, a full charge can be achieved overnight in about 11 hours.
The Volvo XC40 Recharge allows charging at rates up to 150 kW DC, enabling it to recover from 10% to 80% in around 40 minutes. A full recharge on a standard home charger will take roughly 8 to 10 hours.
It's worth noting that frequently charging between 10% and 80% is usually recommended for maintaining optimum battery health. For locating the best charging stations with optimal speeds, download the Bonnet app today.
Whether you're drawn to the BMW iX3's slightly superior range or the Volvo XC40 Recharge's competitive charging times will depend on your driving habits and requirements. Both vehicles offer compelling options regarding range and charging capabilities in the EV market.
In the UK, the BMW iX3 has a starting price of £63,260. The Volvo XC40 Recharge has a starting price of £46,505.
In terms of value for money, both cars offer many features that justify their respective price tags. While the Volvo XC40 Recharge is more affordable and well-equipped, the BMW iX3, though more expensive, offers a more extensive choice of trims and a slightly better range.
There are a few notable competitors for those interested in exploring more options in the same price range. The Audi Q4 e-tron, priced from around £49,915, offers a stylish design and great performance. The Mercedes-Benz EQA, starting at £52,010, offers luxury and refinement, coupled with the brand's powerful EV technology.
Alternatively, the Tesla Model Y could be a compelling choice. It offers good range, rapid acceleration and access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network. Prices start from around £44,990.
While each of these alternatives presents its own set of strengths, the BMW iX3 and Volvo XC40 Recharge continue to be strong contenders in the market, given their blend of brand heritage, performance, range and premium features. As always, the best choice will depend on individual preferences, budget and specific requirements.
Choosing between the BMW iX3 and Volvo XC40 Recharge is no easy task. Both vehicles offer a unique blend of style, luxury, performance and practicality.
In terms of performance, the Volvo XC40 Recharge takes the lead with its 408-horsepower dual electric motor setup, providing quicker acceleration and all-wheel-drive confidence. However, the BMW iX3, with its 286 horsepower electric motor, offers a more balanced and traditional rear-wheel-drive experience, coupled with a slightly superior range of up to 285 miles, compared to Volvo's 215 miles.
When it comes to charging, both cars are nearly on par, supporting DC fast charging that can refill the battery from 10% to 80% in less than 40 minutes. The BMW edges ahead slightly with a shorter charging duration.
Price-wise, the Volvo XC40 Recharge is the more affordable option starting at £53,155. However, the BMW iX3, despite its higher starting price of £58,850, offers additional customisation with its two available trims.
Examining the exteriors, the BMW iX3 presents a traditional luxurious appeal, while the Volvo XC40 Recharge adopts a contemporary, bold look. The interiors of both cars mirror their respective brand identities, with BMW offering a driver-focused cabin and Volvo showcasing a minimalist Scandinavian design.
Considering practicality, both vehicles offer similar levels of spaciousness and comfort, although the BMW iX3 has a slightly larger boot capacity.
Ultimately, the choice between these remarkable vehicles comes down to personal preference. If you value a more powerful drive, a modern aesthetic and a lower entry price, the Volvo XC40 Recharge would be an excellent choice. However, if a greater driving range, traditional luxury and a performance-oriented experience are more your speed, then the BMW iX3 is hard to beat.
These vehicles exemplify the exciting advancements in the EV market, offering sustainable transport and vehicles that deliver an all-around exceptional driving experience.
As an EV driver, you've likely experienced the frustration of trying to find a reliable and convenient charging station. The process can be time-consuming and unpredictable, often leaving you wondering if you'll reach your destination without running out of power. But what if there was a solution that could make charging your EV as easy as using your smartphone?
Enter Bonnet, the must-have app for EV drivers everywhere. Bonnet is designed to make EV charging a breeze, providing access to more than 6,000 public chargers internationally. With Bonnet, you can say goodbye to range anxiety and hello to a seamless charging experience.
Bonnet offers a unique feature called Bonnet Boosts. For a small monthly fee, you can save up to 15% on the cost of charging, regardless of the charger's speed, network or location. This means more money in your pocket to spend on what really matters.
With Bonnet, you also get access to the largest network of public chargers in Europe. Whether you're charging at home or on the go, Bonnet makes it easy to find a charging point when you really need it. The app's user-friendly interface makes locating your nearest available charging points simple, removing the stress and hassle of the charging process.
In short, Bonnet is the easy way to charge your EV on the go. It's a game-changer for EV drivers, offering reliable, cheaper charging from all of the best EV charging networks in the UK and Europe. So why wait? Download Bonnet today and make charging easy.
As we venture further into the era of sustainable transportation, electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a niche novelty but a mainstream choice for consumers. In response to this increasing popularity, car manufacturers globally are expanding their portfolio with EVs that cater to various needs and tastes. Two such noteworthy EVs are the BMW iX3 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge.
These models, despite their premium heritage, are positioned within reach of the average EV buyer, with the BMW iX3 retailing at a recommended price of £63,260 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge starting at £46,505 in the UK market. This article aims to provide an in-depth comparison between these two popular EVs, enabling prospective buyers to make an informed decision.
The BMW iX3 represents a harmonious blend of the brand's legendary driving dynamics and cutting-edge electric technology. At its heart is BMW's fifth-generation eDrive technology, producing 286 horsepower and achieving a range of up to 285 miles on a single charge.
The iX3 boasts impressive acceleration, reaching 62mph in just 6.8 seconds, and maintains a balance between performance and efficiency. The SUV retains BMW's signature design elements like the kidney grille, subtly hinting at its electric nature while keeping the classic BMW aesthetic intact. With its premium, spacious interiors and seamless infotainment system, the BMW iX3 is an attractive proposition in the EV market.
On the other hand, the Volvo XC40 Recharge brings the brand's commitment to safety and environmental responsibility into the EV space. With twin electric motors producing a combined 408 horsepower, this model proves that sustainability doesn't need to compromise on performance.
The XC40 Recharge boasts an impressive range of around 215 miles and can sprint to 62mph in a mere 4.9 seconds. Known for its superior safety standards, Volvo doesn't disappoint with this EV, packing numerous safety and driver-assist features. The car stands out with its bold design, roomy cabin and cutting-edge infotainment system, providing an exciting and secure driving experience.
The BMW iX3 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge embody their brands' essences in electric vehicle form, bringing premium features, performance and safety to the forefront. They are strong contenders in the rapidly growing EV market, catering to a similar demographic but offering distinctive driving experiences.
In the forthcoming sections, we will thoroughly compare these cars, providing a complete perspective so you can decide which EV suits you.
The exterior design of a car is more than just aesthetics – it often defines the first impression and sets the tone for the overall driving experience.
The BMW iX3 stands out with its aerodynamically optimised shape and iconic BMW features. It holds on to the classic kidney grille and mixes in blue accents to subtly indicate its electric character. The adaptive LED headlights and the sculpted lines all around give it a sporty yet elegant appearance.
In contrast, the Volvo XC40 Recharge showcases a more modernistic approach to design. Its front grille is replaced with a solid panel with the Volvo logo, symbolising its departure from internal combustion engines. The striking Thor's hammer LED headlights, bold body lines and contrasting roof provide a dynamic and stylish look.
The BMW iX3 provides a more traditional luxury appeal, whereas the Volvo XC40 Recharge pushes towards a contemporary, bold design language. The decision between the two hinges on whether you prefer a subtle and elegant design or a bold and futuristic one.
On the inside, both vehicles carry forward their respective brand's high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The cabin of the BMW iX3 is elegantly crafted with Vernasca leather seats, ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof. The driver-focused cockpit, combined with the latest version of BMW's iDrive infotainment system, adds to the driving pleasure. BMW's Live Cockpit Professional provides a high-resolution instrument cluster behind the steering wheel and a large central display, ensuring that essential information is always within sight.
The Volvo XC40 Recharge, on the other hand, adopts a minimalist Scandinavian design language. The interior features a blend of high-quality materials, including genuine leather and recycled plastics. What sets the Volvo apart is its Google-powered infotainment system, providing seamless integration with Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play Store.
While the BMW iX3 offers a driver-centric experience with its cutting-edge iDrive system, the Volvo XC40 Recharge's interior stands out with its environmentally-friendly materials and superior Google integration. It again boils down to individual preference, whether you prioritise a driving-focused design or an eco-friendly, tech-focused cabin.
Practicality is a key aspect when considering any vehicle purchase, especially for those considering SUVs that are expected to serve multiple purposes.
The BMW iX3 and Volvo XC40 Recharge offer seating for five adults, with generous headroom and legroom in both front and back.
Regarding luggage space, the Volvo XC40 Recharge offers a generous 414 litres, which can be expanded to 1,328 litres with the rear seats folded. An additional 31-litre 'frunk' (front trunk) is available due to the absence of an engine. In comparison, the BMW iX3 provides a slightly larger boot capacity of 510 litres, which expands to 1,560 litres with the rear seats folded down, but it lacks a frunk.
Performance is often a defining factor for many buyers, particularly when it comes to electric vehicles, where the driving experience is different from conventional petrol or diesel cars.
The BMW iX3, with its single electric motor, produces 286 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 6.8 seconds. With its rear-wheel-drive architecture, it manages to provide a balanced driving experience.
In contrast, the Volvo XC40 Recharge, with its dual electric motor setup, churns out 408 horsepower, and its 0 to 62mph time stands at an impressive 4.9 seconds. Being an all-wheel-drive vehicle, it provides better traction and stability, especially in challenging driving conditions.
While the Volvo XC40 Recharge is quicker off the line and provides the confidence of all-wheel drive, the BMW iX3 offers a slightly better range and the traditional rear-wheel-drive charm. The choice would largely depend on what you value more: outright speed and all-weather capability or driving range and driving dynamics.
The range of an electric vehicle is one of the most significant considerations for prospective buyers. It's crucial to understand how far the car can travel on a single charge and how this might affect its everyday usability.
The BMW iX3 leads the duo in this regard with a single charge range of up to 285 miles, courtesy of a 74 kWh battery. This ensures the car can handle daily commuting and longer trips relatively easily.
The Volvo XC40 Recharge, powered by a 78 kWh battery, offers a slightly lower range of approximately 215 miles on a full charge. Although this is less than the BMW iX3, it still outperforms many other electric vehicles on the market and is more than sufficient for most daily driving requirements.
While the driving range is vital, equally important is how quickly the vehicle can be recharged, affecting its practicality and usability during long-distance travel.
Both cars support fast charging via a DC supply. The BMW iX3 can be charged at speeds of up to 150 kW, allowing it to recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 34 minutes. On a typical 7.4 kW home wall box, a full charge can be achieved overnight in about 11 hours.
The Volvo XC40 Recharge allows charging at rates up to 150 kW DC, enabling it to recover from 10% to 80% in around 40 minutes. A full recharge on a standard home charger will take roughly 8 to 10 hours.
It's worth noting that frequently charging between 10% and 80% is usually recommended for maintaining optimum battery health. For locating the best charging stations with optimal speeds, download the Bonnet app today.
Whether you're drawn to the BMW iX3's slightly superior range or the Volvo XC40 Recharge's competitive charging times will depend on your driving habits and requirements. Both vehicles offer compelling options regarding range and charging capabilities in the EV market.
In the UK, the BMW iX3 has a starting price of £63,260. The Volvo XC40 Recharge has a starting price of £46,505.
In terms of value for money, both cars offer many features that justify their respective price tags. While the Volvo XC40 Recharge is more affordable and well-equipped, the BMW iX3, though more expensive, offers a more extensive choice of trims and a slightly better range.
There are a few notable competitors for those interested in exploring more options in the same price range. The Audi Q4 e-tron, priced from around £49,915, offers a stylish design and great performance. The Mercedes-Benz EQA, starting at £52,010, offers luxury and refinement, coupled with the brand's powerful EV technology.
Alternatively, the Tesla Model Y could be a compelling choice. It offers good range, rapid acceleration and access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network. Prices start from around £44,990.
While each of these alternatives presents its own set of strengths, the BMW iX3 and Volvo XC40 Recharge continue to be strong contenders in the market, given their blend of brand heritage, performance, range and premium features. As always, the best choice will depend on individual preferences, budget and specific requirements.
Choosing between the BMW iX3 and Volvo XC40 Recharge is no easy task. Both vehicles offer a unique blend of style, luxury, performance and practicality.
In terms of performance, the Volvo XC40 Recharge takes the lead with its 408-horsepower dual electric motor setup, providing quicker acceleration and all-wheel-drive confidence. However, the BMW iX3, with its 286 horsepower electric motor, offers a more balanced and traditional rear-wheel-drive experience, coupled with a slightly superior range of up to 285 miles, compared to Volvo's 215 miles.
When it comes to charging, both cars are nearly on par, supporting DC fast charging that can refill the battery from 10% to 80% in less than 40 minutes. The BMW edges ahead slightly with a shorter charging duration.
Price-wise, the Volvo XC40 Recharge is the more affordable option starting at £53,155. However, the BMW iX3, despite its higher starting price of £58,850, offers additional customisation with its two available trims.
Examining the exteriors, the BMW iX3 presents a traditional luxurious appeal, while the Volvo XC40 Recharge adopts a contemporary, bold look. The interiors of both cars mirror their respective brand identities, with BMW offering a driver-focused cabin and Volvo showcasing a minimalist Scandinavian design.
Considering practicality, both vehicles offer similar levels of spaciousness and comfort, although the BMW iX3 has a slightly larger boot capacity.
Ultimately, the choice between these remarkable vehicles comes down to personal preference. If you value a more powerful drive, a modern aesthetic and a lower entry price, the Volvo XC40 Recharge would be an excellent choice. However, if a greater driving range, traditional luxury and a performance-oriented experience are more your speed, then the BMW iX3 is hard to beat.
These vehicles exemplify the exciting advancements in the EV market, offering sustainable transport and vehicles that deliver an all-around exceptional driving experience.
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Cars similar to the XC40 Recharge include the BMW iX3, Audi Q4 e-tron and Mercedes-Benz EQA, all of which are electric SUVs offering similar features and performance.
The Volvo XC40 Recharge's main competitors include the BMW iX3, Audi Q4 e-tron, Mercedes-Benz EQA and Tesla Model Y.
Cars similar to the BMW iX3 include the Volvo XC40 Recharge, Audi Q4 e-tron and Tesla Model Y, offering similar electric SUV features, luxury and performance.
The BMW iX3 can travel up to 285 miles on a full charge, depending on driving conditions and usage.
