BMW iX1 vs Denza B5
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.
Plug-in hybrid fuel economy is shown as a hybrid (battery depleted) so it compares fairly with the other car. A PHEV's official "combined" figure assumes you start every trip fully charged, so real-world economy depends on how often you plug in. Electric range shows how far it goes before the petrol engine is needed.
Price Breakdown
The BMW iX1 starts from $78,900 before on-road costs, while the Denza B5 opens at $74,990. That makes the Denza B5 the more affordable entry point by $3,910.
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 $82,489 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 Denza B5 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the BMW iX1 and 86% for the Denza B5.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The BMW iX1 packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 4 in the Denza B5.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control.
Feature Showdown
The BMW iX1 features a 10.7-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.3-inch digital dash, while the Denza B5 gets a 15.6-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW iX1 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, power tailgate and Harman Kardon audio that you will not find on the Denza B5. The Denza B5 counters with Apple CarPlay and Devialet audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the BMW iX1 gets sensatec synthetic leather upholstery while the Denza B5 offers leather.
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 Denza B5 responds with a Petrol Turbo PHEV making 400kW and 760Nm, paired to a 1-speed auto driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds.
The Denza B5 has the clear power advantage at 400kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the Denza B5 is 1.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The BMW iX1 measures 4,500mm long on a 2,692mm wheelbase, 388mm shorter than the Denza B5 at 4,888mm (2,800mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Denza B5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 500L in the BMW iX1 and 470L in the Denza B5, giving the BMW iX1 a 30L advantage.
For towing, the Denza B5 leads with a 3,000kg braked capacity vs 2,500kg. That 500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.8m 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 11.8m 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 6 years / 150,000km (Denza B5). The Denza B5 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW iX1 if: You need more boot space, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Denza B5 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Denza's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Denza B5 takes 5 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Denza B5 adds peace of mind with a longer 6-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, BMW iX1 and Denza B5?
The Denza B5 is the cheapest at $74,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the BMW iX1 by $3,910.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Denza B5 uses the least fuel at 1.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — BMW iX1 and Denza B5 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The BMW iX1 has the largest boot at 500L.
Which can tow the most?
The Denza B5 has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Denza B5 has the longest warranty at 6 years / 150k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Denza B5 makes the most power at 400kW. The Denza B5 is quickest to 100km/h in 4.8s.
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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