For savvy automotive shoppers, cars with names starting with the letter "X" hold special meaning. This badge marks vehicles designed for exploration and excitement, combining versatility for off-road adventures with luxury features and design.
As you browse BMWs, Jaguars and Volvos, that initial "X" signals rugged SUVs and crossovers packed with performance, space and innovation. Tech-focused drivers will also appreciate these model‘s advanced safety systems, powerful engines and styling that stands out from more conventional options.
Let‘s explore the origins, stats and key features that make these adventure-ready vehicles so popular:
BMW Leads the Luxury X Category
When BMW debuted its first-ever SUV in 1999, choosing the name BMW X5 held significance. This midsize "Sports Activity Vehicle" launched the German automaker‘s X Series that has grown to include seven models scaling from compact to full-size:
| Model | First Year | Description |
|---|---|---|
| X1 | 2009 | Subcompact luxury SUV |
| X2 | 2017 | Subcompact "sport activity coupe" |
| X3 | 2003 | Compact luxury SUV |
| X4 | 2014 | Compact "coupe SUV" |
| X5 | 1999 | Midsize luxury SUV |
| X6 | 2008 | Midsize "coupe SUV" |
| X7 | 2018 | Full-size luxury SUV |
Representing over 30% of BMW global sales in 2021, the X lineup continues to drive success for this luxury brand. What‘s the appeal across over 3.2 million X Series vehicles sold to date? [1]
Beyond adventurous styling, BMW X models promise driving dynamics and car-like handling paired with AWD versatility. The latest generations also feature:
- Powerful yet efficient turbocharged engine options (4, 6 or 8 cylinder)
- Mild hybrid drivetrains enhancing performance and fuel economy
- Spacious, customizable luxury interiors with premium amenities
- Cutting-edge tech like digital dashboards and driver assistance
Reviewers praise the X5 specifically for its agile performance belying the SUV‘s heft and size. The midsize icon truly set the formula for blending on- and off-road excitement that BMW‘s full X range delivers today.
Jaguar Marries Performance and Practicality
Jaguar constructs some of the world‘s sleekest, most eye-catching vehicles fired by British racing heritage. Applying their styling finesse and engineering prowess to SUVs and crossovers makes perfect sense to court wider demographics.
The first foray arrived in 2016 with the F-PACE, followed by the smaller E-PACE in 2017 and all-electric I-PACE in 2018. Jaguar also assigns the letter "X" to its largest, most luxurious sedan–the XJ.
Across all models, expect a sporting spirit embodied by:
- Streamlined shapes slicing through air with supercar-like profiles
- Responsive steering and suspension for carving corners like a pro
- Roomy leather-lined cabins surrounded by wraparound glass
Jaguar XE, XF and XJ Sedans
While the majority of Jaguar‘s lineup leans towards sportiness over spaciousness, the XE, XF and XJ patiently pamper passengers with refinement.
As Jaguar‘s most affordable sedan, the XE impresses drivers with its nimble agility, turbocharged engine options an available AWD paired with 35+ mpg.[2] Priced above the XE, the midsize XF provides more stretch-out room for its sleek silhouette along with a sophisticated cabin experience.
But it‘s the flagship long-wheelbase XJ that defines Jaguar luxury. This aluminum-constructed sedan can be spec‘ed as a "supercharged" performance beast or ultimate, extended limousine cocooning VIP riders in another world of comfort.[3]
Volvo XC Series Set Safety Standards
Under Geely ownership over the last 15 years, Volvo refreshed its reputation for safety while accelerating development of luxury SUVs and crossovers.
The midsize XC90 pioneered this segment in 2002, appealing to families with available seven-passenger seating plus over 50 safety innovations at launch. Next came the XC60 in 2009, downsizing to a five-seat compact SUV but upholding Volvo‘s emphasis on both advanced driver assistance and reducing impacts when crashes occur.[4]
Volvo‘s XC Series grew again in 2018 by introducing the XC40. Their fashionable subcompact crossover turned heads with its audacious styling and ultra-modern Scandinavian cabin design.[5]
Across all three SUVs, expect a no-compromises approach to balancing safety, sustainability and performance:
- Standard connectivity and active safety equipment (collision warning, AEB)
- Efficient turbocharged engines, including T8 plug-in hybrid powertrains
- Award-winning luxury interiors highlighted by natural materials
This compelling combination attracts both legacy Volvo owners and newest-generation drivers to the XC clan of SUVs.
Niche Examples: Tata Xenon, KTM X-Bow
Beyond mainstream luxury brands, a few vehicles starting with "X" make the list from more specialized automakers:
Tata Xenon Pickup – As India‘s largest producer of cars and trucks, Tata Motors knows a thing or two about ruggedness. The Xenon pickup offers drivers commercial-grade durability mixed with some creature comforts like seating for five and an infotainment system.[6]
KTM X-Bow – Showing its motorcycle roots, Austrian brand KTM sports tiny two-seat roadsters like the X-Bow emphasizing fierce acceleration andFormula 1-inspired handling. Removing the doors and roof amplifies the thrill for driving purists not afraid of the elements.[7]
In this guide, we‘ve seen how BMW, Jaguar and Volvo apply an "X" starting initial to denote crossover and SUV models ready for adventure. Part of the appeal lies in ascending from each brand‘s traditional passenger cars into more rugged, versatile territory without sacrificing luxury expectations or driving enjoyment.
Other automakers follow similar naming logic signalling off-road intent through startup letters like "Q" or "Z". But for many shoppers seeking a premium vehicle marrying excitement with practicality for daily family use or outdoor exploring, cars starting with "X" hold special allure.
