BMW iX vs Lexus RZ
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The BMW iX starts from $142,900 before on-road costs, while the Lexus RZ opens at $91,000. That makes the Lexus RZ the more affordable entry point by $51,900.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $157,190 and $100,100 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
Both the BMW iX and Lexus RZ hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 91% for the BMW iX and 87% for the Lexus RZ.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The BMW iX packs more ADAS features with 8 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the Lexus RZ.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. The BMW iX adds a 360-degree camera that the Lexus RZ misses.
Feature Showdown
The BMW iX features a 14.9-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Lexus RZ gets a 14-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW iX stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof, ventilated seats, Harman Kardon audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Lexus RZ. The Lexus RZ counters with Apple CarPlay, V2L and Mark Levinson audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the BMW iX gets vernasca leather upholstery while the Lexus RZ offers synthetic leather. Climate control is 4-zone in the BMW iX and 2-zone in the Lexus RZ.
Drivetrain
The BMW iX uses a Electric producing 300kW and 700Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.6 seconds.
The Lexus RZ responds with a Electric Motor making 230kW and 435Nm, paired to a automatic. It gets to 100km/h in 5 seconds.
The BMW iX has the clear power advantage at 300kW vs 230kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW iX is 0.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 94.8kWh (BMW iX) vs 71.4kWh (Lexus RZ), giving WLTP ranges of 578km and 440km. DC fast charging peaks at 200kW (BMW iX) vs 150kW (Lexus RZ).
Space & Comfort
The BMW iX measures 4,953mm long on a 3,000mm wheelbase, 148mm longer than the Lexus RZ at 4,805mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW iX generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 500L in the BMW iX and 522L in the Lexus RZ, giving the Lexus RZ a 22L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m to 12.6m
Based on 12.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (BMW iX) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus RZ). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW iX if: You prioritise performance, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus RZ if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BMW iX takes 5 of 9 key spec categories. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, BMW iX and Lexus RZ?
The Lexus RZ is the cheapest at $91,000 before on-road costs. That undercuts the BMW iX by $51,900.
Which has the longest driving range?
The BMW iX has the most range at 602km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The BMW iX accepts the highest DC charging at up to 200kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — BMW iX and Lexus RZ all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Lexus RZ has the largest boot at 522L.
Which can tow the most?
The BMW iX has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The BMW iX makes the most power at 300kW. The BMW iX is quickest to 100km/h in 4.6s.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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