BMW 1 Series vs Volvo V40 vs Volkswagen Golf: which one has the lowest running costs?
BMW 1 Series vs Volvo V40 vs Volkswagen Golf: which one has the lowest running costs?
By Farzana Chaumoo
We compare the generic running costs of three popular family hatchbacks.
BMW 1 Series – 3.5/5
Costs, Fuel and CO2
The BMW badge comes at a premium price of R446,600 and trim levels like the M Sport are not particularly great value. You’re paying steep prices for a few pieces of body kit and larger alloy wheels. On the plus side, you can negotiate good discounts, while entry-level models are more keenly and competitively priced when it comes to finance deals.
Fuel consumption on the 1 Series should also be competitive and the majority of the engines emit sensible levels of CO2. The 120d, for example, claims an average of 4.1l/100km but models such as the M140i can burn a hole in your pocket for fuel, also depending on how heavy your right foot is.
Reliability
Newer BMW’s are relatively reliable, however, in a UK reliability survey, BMW placed 17th out of 32 automakers.
Although, on an individual scale, the 1 Series performed better with only 16 faults per 100 vehicles reported. Additionally, the 1 Series completed in third position in the class.
Servicing is covered for 5 years/100 000 km under Motorplan. Much like the other premium brands, BMW also offers a 3-year warranty but BMW’s mileage is unlimited.
The BMW 1 Series is a desirable car that’s good to drive, it’s surprisingly cheap to run and one of the best small family cars.
Servicing
BMW South Africa offers online quotations for servicing from various dealerships. Check out the portal here: BMW Online Service Estimate
Volvo V40 – 2/5
Costs, Fuel and CO2
In some markets, the entry-level V40 sells for around the same amount as an Audi A3 while the entry-level A3 is still considerably cheaper, has a smarter interior and is more composed to drive. In South Africa, models begin at R403,900 for a V40 hatch.
In comparison to rivals, the V40 has lower resale values after three years. It’s said to be predicted that the V40 will depreciate more quickly than a Volkswagen Golf despite having lower fuel economy than the A3.
Fuel consumption is rated from as low as 4.1l/100km with the D2 Geartronic engine and goes up to 6.1l/100km with the T5 Geartronic engine. CO2 emissions are measured from 107g/km to 137g/km respectively. (Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) test procedure)
Reliability
In the same aforementioned UK reliability survey, the V40 completed in 12th position out of 14 contenders in the Family Car category and was basically beaten out by everything including the BMW 1 Series.
On a broader scale, Volvo as an automaker completed in the 21st position out of 31 contenders for reliability.
Volvo V40’s come standard with a 5 year/100 000km Volvo Plan.
VW Golf – 3.5/5
Costs, Fuel and CO2
With a starting tag of R322,100, the Golf is very competitively priced against its premium rivals. However, you’ll still get change from a comparably equipped Opel Astra.
But don’t forget to factor in resale values. Since the Golf is a high demand vehicle and looks particularly strong after three years, it could actually cost you less in the long run than cheaper alternatives if you're buying privately. Strong resale values and frequent specials make the Golf an attractive option on finance while insurance and servicing bills are generally quite competitive too.
Fuel consumption on a combined cycle is rated from as low as 4.8l/100km in the TSI 81kW Trendline Manual model to 5.2l/100km in the TSI 92kW Comfortline DSG model. CO2 emissions are rated at 109g/km and 120g/km respectively.
Reliability
In the aforementioned UK reliability survey, the Golf finished right in the middle of the pack. As an automaker, Volkswagen finished in 17th position from 31 manufacturers.
The Golf comes with a 3-year/120 000 km manufacturer warranty, 5-year/90 000 km service plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. You can pay extra for an extended warranty that will cover your Golf for longer, take a look below.
Servicing
Click here to view pricing on Volkswagen Optional & Extended Automotion Maintenance Plans
Insurance
Insurance premiums differ amongst drivers and will depend on your personal profile. Please contact a vehicle insurance company to give you a quote on a model that you're interested in purchasing.
Read How much is it to insure?
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