10 Premium SUVs That Could Tempt You Away from the BMW X1

The BMW X1 is a solid choice for those in the market for a compact SUV. It’s stylish, packed with tech and well-built. However, its high starting price and fiddly infotainment system may not suit everyone.

Here’s our pick of the top 10 premium alternatives to the BMW X1:

1. Audi Q3

The Audi Q3 is a top contender, offering a posh cabin and cutting-edge tech. It’s really comfortable to drive as well. It’s getting a bit long in the tooth now though and a new one is on the horizon. The upside to this is that you can save up to £5,500 on a Q3 at the time of writing through Carwow.

2. Mercedes GLA

The Mercedes GLA comes with a classy interior and loads of tech. It’s more about comfort than sporty thrills, but that’s no bad thing. The boot is pretty small though, and it’s quite expensive to buy.

3. Volvo XC40

If you’re after something stylish and comfortable, the Volvo XC40 is hard to beat. Not only does it look great on the outside, the interior is also a lovely place to spend time – even though the infotainment system is annoying to use.

4. Lexus UX

The Lexus UX often flies under the radar in the premium SUV segment, but this funky-looking car has a lot going for it. The interior is really nicely built, and the seats are super comfy as well. The boot is pretty small though, and some of the tech feels quite dated.

5. Range Rover Evoque

Land Rover makes some of the most desirable cars around, and the Range Rover Evoque is an effortlessly cool small SUV which looks great and is nice to drive. You get loads of tech as standard as well, however the rear seats are a bit cramped and this brand doesn’t have the best reputation for reliability.

6. Used Porsche Macan

If you look at the used market, you could grab a Porsche Macan S for the same price as a base BMW X1. It comes with a powerful 2.9-litre V6 engine and it’s great fun to drive, all while being comfortable and really well-made. Just be prepared for pretty high running costs, because it’s quite a thirsty thing.

7. Alfa Romeo Tonale

If you’re after a bit of Italian style, the Alfa Romeo Tonale blends handsome good looks with a sporty vibe. It’s great fun to drive for an SUV, and the interior is a nice place to spend time as well. It’s just a shame there’s not more cabin storage, and the infotainment system isn’t great either.

8. Genesis GV70

If you’re after something a bit bigger than an X1, but with similar levels of luxury, the Genesis GV70 could be worth a look. It costs around the same as a high-spec X1, but offers more interior space and a properly lovely cabin. The 2.5-litre petrol engine isn’t very economical though.

9. Tesla Model Y

Maybe you’re ready to make the switch to an electric car? Well the Tesla Model Y is a great way to do it. Not only is it easy to drive and packed with tech, you also get access to Tesla’s excellent Supercharger network to make long road trips that bit easier. The cabin isn’t as nicely made as a BMW X1’s though.

10. Used BMW X3

If you like the look of the BMW X1, but want something a bit bigger and even more luxurious, you could get a really nice second-hand X3 for the same money. £40,000 will get you into a 2023 example with low miles, and it’s lovely to drive with plenty of tech on board.

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