Compare performance (326 HP vs 150 HP), boot space and price (38,700 £ vs 20,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW X1 or SEAT Arona?
The compact SUV market is fiercely competitive, offering consumers a blend of style, comfort, and practicality. Today, we delve into two contenders in this segment: the BMW X1 and the SEAT Arona. Both models boast impressive features and distinct characteristics, but which one offers the best package for you? Let's dive into the technical aspects and innovations of these two vehicles.
When it comes to engine variety and performance, the BMW X1 stands tall with a wide range of options. The X1 offers diesel, petrol, MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicles), and PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) variants. Power output spans from 136 to 326 HP, with the notable PHEV variant providing an electric range of 83 km. This emphasizes BMW's commitment to catering to diverse consumer preferences and regulatory standards. The X1 features a dual-clutch automatic transmission, with the option between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.
In comparison, the SEAT Arona, while offering fewer options, focuses on simplicity and efficiency. It exclusively offers petrol engines with power outputs ranging from 95 to 150 HP. The Arona provides both manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions, with all models featuring front-wheel drive which fits perfectly for urban driving. While it doesn’t match the X1’s power range, the Arona's light curb weight (as low as 1188 kg) ensures a nimble driving experience, especially in city environments.
Fuel efficiency is crucial in today's automotive landscape, and both vehicles offer eco-friendly options. The PHEV variant of the BMW X1 shines with a fuel consumption of just 0.8 L/100 km and a CO2 emission as low as 17 g/km, scoring a B in the CO2 efficiency class. This makes it a great choice for environmentally-conscious drivers.
On the other hand, the SEAT Arona focuses on petrol efficiency, with its engines consuming between 5.4 to 5.6 L/100 km and CO2 emissions ranging from 122 to 128 g/km. Though it scores a D in CO2 efficiency, its simplicity and fuel consumption make it a reliable choice for those focusing on conventional petrol use.
Both the BMW X1 and the SEAT Arona offer practicality for everyday use, but the differences are notable. The BMW X1, with a trunk capacity reaching up to 540 liters and slightly larger dimensions (4505 mm in length, 1845 mm in width, and 1642 mm in height), is better suited for families needing versatility and extra space.
The SEAT Arona is more compact, measuring 4153 mm in length, 1780 mm in width, and 1537 mm in height. Its trunk capacity is 400 liters, making it highly maneuverable and ideal for urban commuters who often face parking and space constraints.
Choosing between the BMW X1 and the SEAT Arona ultimately depends on your priorities. If you seek a high-performing vehicle with a variety of engine options, including electrified variants, and need extra space for family outings, the BMW X1 is an excellent choice. Its innovation in hybrid technologies and luxurious features reflect BMW’s legacy of excellence.
Conversely, if you desire a practical, efficient, and easy-to-drive vehicle for city adventures, the SEAT Arona fits the bill. It is a cost-effective alternative that does not compromise on essential comfort and style, catering perfectly to the young, urban audience.
Both SUVs offer compelling packages in their rights, and the choice between the two could depend on your lifestyle and driving needs. Visit a dealership to experience these vehicles firsthand and make an informed decision based on what matters most to you.
Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.
SEAT Arona is substantially cheaper – starting at 20,700 £ , while the BMW X1 costs 38,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 17,957 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the BMW X1 uses 2.5 L/100km and is considerably more efficient than the SEAT Arona with 5.3 L/100km. The difference is about 2.8 L/100km.
Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.
When it comes to engine power, the BMW X1 offers clearly more power – delivering 326 HP compared to 150 HP. That’s roughly 176 HP more horsepower.
When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the BMW X1 is substantially quicker – completing the sprint in 5.4 s, while the SEAT Arona takes 8.3 s. That’s about 2.9 s quicker.
There’s also a difference in torque: the BMW X1 delivers clearly more torque with 477 Nm compared to 250 Nm. That’s about 227 Nm more.
Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In terms of curb weight, SEAT Arona is markedly lighter – 1,188 kg compared to 1,575 kg. The difference is around 387 kg.
Looking at boot space, the BMW X1 offers markedly more boot space – 540 L compared to 400 L. That’s a difference of about 140 L.
When it comes to payload, the SEAT Arona carries very slightly more – 522 kg compared to 500 kg. That’s a difference of about 22 kg.
The BMW X1 is clearly superior 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.
The BMW X1 delivers BMW's sporty driving character in a compact premium crossover package, making daily driving both engaging and practical. With a refined cabin, flexible cargo space and composed handling, it's a smart choice for buyers who want luxury and versatility without compromise.
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The SEAT Arona is a compact crossover that blends practical, city-friendly packaging with a sporty, youthful design. It delivers a comfortable ride, an intuitive cabin and economical running costs, making it a sensible pick for daily drives and weekend getaways.
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
38,700 - 56,200 £
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Price
20,700 - 30,300 £
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Consumption L/100km
2.5 - 7.7 L/100km
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Consumption L/100km
5.3 - 5.8 L/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
81 km
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Electric Range
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
57 - 175 g/km
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co2
120 - 132 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
SUV
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
-
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Doors
-
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Curb weight
1,575 - 1,935 kg
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Curb weight
1,188 - 1,268 kg
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Trunk capacity
490 - 540 L
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Trunk capacity
400 L
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Length
-
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Length
-
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Width
1,845 mm
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Width
1,780 mm
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Height
-
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Height
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Payload
490 - 500 kg
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Payload
502 - 522 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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|---|---|
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Engine Type
Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plug-in Hybrid
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Engine Type
Petrol
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Manual, Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
136 - 326 HP
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Power HP
95 - 150 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.4 - 9.2 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.3 - 11.1 s
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Max Speed
-
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Max Speed
-
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Torque
230 - 477 Nm
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Torque
175 - 250 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
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Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
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Power kW
100 - 240 kW
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Power kW
70 - 110 kW
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Engine capacity
1,499 - 1,998 cm3
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Engine capacity
999 - 1,498 cm3
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General |
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|---|---|
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Model Year
2,024 - 2,025
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Model Year
2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F, B
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D
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Brand
BMW
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Brand
SEAT
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Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
Česko
España