BMW iX1 vs Audi Q4 e-tron
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 iX1 starts from $78,900 before on-road costs, while the Audi Q4 e-tron opens at $84,900. That makes the BMW iX1 the more affordable entry point by $6,000.
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 $86,790 and $93,390 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 iX1 and Audi Q4 e-tron hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the BMW iX1 and 93% for the Audi Q4 e-tron.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Audi Q4 e-tron packs more ADAS features with 8 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 6 in the BMW iX1.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the BMW iX1 and 7 in the Audi Q4 e-tron. The Audi Q4 e-tron adds a 360-degree camera that the BMW iX1 misses.
Feature Showdown
The BMW iX1 features a 10.7-inch touchscreen, while the Audi Q4 e-tron gets a 11.6-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW iX1 stands out with Harman Kardon audio that you will not find on the Audi Q4 e-tron. The Audi Q4 e-tron counters with Bang & Olufsen audio and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BMW iX1 uses a Electric producing 150kW and 247Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.1 seconds.
The Audi Q4 e-tron responds with a Electric making 210kW and 545Nm, paired to a single speed driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.7 seconds.
The Audi Q4 e-tron has the clear power advantage at 210kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW iX1 is 0.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 64.7kWh (BMW iX1) vs 82kWh (Audi Q4 e-tron), giving WLTP ranges of 578km and 524km. DC fast charging peaks at 200kW (BMW iX1) vs 175kW (Audi Q4 e-tron).
Space & Comfort
The BMW iX1 measures 4,500mm long on a 2,692mm wheelbase, 88mm shorter than the Audi Q4 e-tron at 4,588mm (2,764mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Audi Q4 e-tron generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 500L in the BMW iX1 and 520L in the Audi Q4 e-tron, giving the Audi Q4 e-tron a 20L advantage.
For towing, the BMW iX1 leads with a 2,500kg braked capacity vs 1,000kg. That 1,500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
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 iX1) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Audi Q4 e-tron). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW iX1 if: You want the lower entry price, need stronger towing, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Audi Q4 e-tron if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BMW iX1 takes 5 of 9 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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