VS

BMW X1 vs Mercedes B Class comparison

Compare performance (326 HP vs 238 HP), boot space and price (38,200 £ vs 33,100 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW X1 or Mercedes B Class?

BMW X1 vs Mercedes B Class: Key differences

BMW X1

4.2 (6 Reviews)
rate
  • markedly more power
  • considerably more efficient
  • visibly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • slightly more trunk space
details

Mercedes B Class

4.9 (5 Reviews)
rate
  • somewhat cheaper
  • somewhat lighter
details

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

X1

Battle of the Titans: BMW X1 vs. Mercedes B-Klasse

In the highly competitive landscape of compact premium vehicles, two brands have always stood out for their blend of luxury, performance, and innovative engineering: BMW and Mercedes-Benz. This comparison pits the BMW X1 against the Mercedes B-Klasse, two vehicles that, while different in form and philosophy, offer much to the discerning driver. Let's delve into their technical aspects and innovations to see how they stack up against each other.

B Class

Performance and Powertrains

The BMW X1 offers versatility with a range of engine options, including diesel, petrol, mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEV), and a plug-in hybrid variant. Boasting up to 326 HP and an efficient electric range of 83 km, the X1 addresses both power and eco-friendliness. The top acceleration speed of the X1 is 5.4 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h, making it quite the agile performer. Coupled with optional all-wheel drive and dual-clutch automatic transmission, it's tailored for those seeking an exhilarating driving experience.

On the other hand, the Mercedes B-Klasse focuses on a balance of practicality and performance. Available with petrol MHEV, diesel, and plug-in hybrid engines, it provides a diverse range for different driving needs. The B-Klasse can rock up to 238 HP, offering a fair share of power with a steady max speed of 250 km/h on select models. Though slightly more gradual than the X1, B-Klasse manages a respectable acceleration of 7.3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h, complemented by its front-wheel and all-wheel drive options, making it well-suited for everyday cruising.

X1

Economy and Efficiency

Efficiency is a key highlight in both models. The BMW X1 presents a commendable range of fuel consumption figures, from a thrifty 4.6 L/100 km in its diesel variant to a mere 0.8 L/100 km in the hybrid option, spotlighting its low-emission capability with CO2 emissions as low as 17 g/km.

The Mercedes B-Klasse is not too far behind, with fuel consumption figures starting at 5.1 L/100 km for diesel options and 0.8 L/100 km for the plug-in hybrid, showcasing a solid performance in terms of efficiency. Its CO2 emissions run as low as 18 g/km in the most eco-conscious versions, aligning well with the modern demands for sustainability and lower carbon footprints.

B Class

Dimensions and Design

While performance and efficiency are critical, dimensions and design play a pivotal role in driver experience. The BMW X1, with a length of 4500 mm, width of 1845 mm, and height of 1630 mm, offers a spacious interior without compromising its sleek, sporty exterior. It also boasts a trunk capacity of up to 540 liters, ideal for those road trips requiring additional luggage space.

The Mercedes B-Klasse is slightly more compact, measuring 4419 mm in length, 1796 mm in width, and 1562 mm in height, ideal for city driving while still providing ample interior comfort. Its trunk, slightly smaller at 455 liters, is nonetheless sufficient for daily commutes and weekend getaways.

X1

Technological Innovations

The BMW X1 packs the latest BMW iDrive technology, offering a user-friendly interface for navigation and infotainment, coupled with various driving assistant features that enhance safety and comfort. The introduction of the plug-in hybrid model further solidifies its place in the eco-conscious segment of drivers.

Mercedes offers the B-Klasse with its MERCEDES-Benz User Experience (MBUX), providing an intelligent and customizable interface that interacts with the driver via natural language processing. The brand's focus on safety is further emphasized with numerous active safety systems embedded within the vehicle.

B Class

Conclusion: Choosing Your Path

In the end, the decision between the BMW X1 and the Mercedes B-Klasse boils down to personal preference and lifestyle needs. The X1 appeals to those who crave performance, innovation, and a dash of sportiness, while the B-Klasse stands as a beacon of practicality, comfort, and efficiency. Whichever your choice, both models offer a compelling suite of features befitting the premium badge they proudly wear.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

X1

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Mercedes B Class is somewhat cheaper – starting at 33,100 £ , while the BMW X1 costs 38,200 £ . That’s a price difference of around 5,099 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the BMW X1 uses 2.5 L/100km and is considerably more efficient than the Mercedes B Class with 5.1 L/100km. The difference is about 2.6 L/100km.

B Class

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the BMW X1 offers markedly more power – delivering 326 HP compared to 238 HP. That’s roughly 88 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the BMW X1 is visibly quicker – completing the sprint in 5.4 s, while the Mercedes B Class takes 6.5 s. That’s about 1.1 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the BMW X1 delivers slightly more torque with 477 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 77 Nm more.

X1

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Mercedes B Class is somewhat lighter – 1,405 kg compared to 1,575 kg. The difference is around 170 kg.

Looking at boot space, the BMW X1 offers slightly more boot space – 540 L compared to 455 L. That’s a difference of about 85 L.

When it comes to payload, the Mercedes B Class carries barely more – 550 kg compared to 500 kg. That’s a difference of about 50 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The BMW X1 is far ahead overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £38,200
X1

BMW X1

  • Engine Type : Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 136 - 326 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.5 - 7.7 L/100km
  • Electric Range : 81 km
BMW X1
Mercedes B Class

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

BMW X1

The BMW X1 brings a premium feel to compact crossover life, wrapping practical space and agile handling into a tidy, upscale package. It’s ideal for buyers who want BMW driving dynamics without the bulk, offering everyday comfort and a few clever tricks to keep the commute interesting.

details

Mercedes B Class

The Mercedes B-Class is a smart, grown-up compact people carrier that dresses everyday practicality in a near‑premium polish, perfect for buyers who want comfort and a classy badge without the theatrics. It won’t set your pulse racing on a back road, but it will make school runs, commutes and grocery hauls feel pleasantly civilized — a reliable, slightly posh companion for real life.

details
BMW X1
Mercedes B Class

Costs and Consumption

Price
38,200 - 55,500 £
Price
33,100 - 52,500 £
Consumption L/100km
2.5 - 7.7 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.9 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
81 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
57 - 175 g/km
co2
133 - 156 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
MPV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,575 - 1,935 kg
Curb weight
1,405 - 1,565 kg
Trunk capacity
490 - 540 L
Trunk capacity
445 - 455 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,845 mm
Width
1,796 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
490 - 500 kg
Payload
515 - 550 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
136 - 326 HP
Power HP
116 - 238 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.4 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 10 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
230 - 477 Nm
Torque
200 - 400 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
100 - 240 kW
Power kW
85 - 175 kW
Engine capacity
1,499 - 1,998 cm3
Engine capacity
1,332 - 1,991 cm3

General

Model Year
2,024 - 2,025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F
Brand
BMW
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.