BMW iX1 vs Subaru Solterra
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 $77,900 before on-road costs, while the Subaru Solterra opens at $61,990. That makes the Subaru Solterra the more affordable entry point by $15,910.
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 $85,690 and $68,189 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 Subaru Solterra hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the BMW iX1 and 88% for the Subaru Solterra.
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 5 in the Subaru Solterra.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
The BMW iX1 features a 10.7-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.3-inch digital dash, while the Subaru Solterra gets a 14-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW iX1 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof and Harman Kardon audio that you will not find on the Subaru Solterra. The Subaru Solterra counters with Apple CarPlay, head-up display and V2L. 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 Subaru Solterra offers synthetic leather.
Drivetrain
The BMW iX1 uses a Electric producing 230kW and 494Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.1 seconds.
The Subaru Solterra responds with a Electric Motor making 252kW and 455Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.9 seconds.
The Subaru Solterra has the clear power advantage at 252kW vs 230kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW iX1 is 0.8s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 64.7kWh (BMW iX1) vs 74.7kWh (Subaru Solterra), giving WLTP ranges of 578km and 517km. DC fast charging peaks at 200kW (BMW iX1) vs 150kW (Subaru Solterra).
Space & Comfort
The BMW iX1 measures 4,500mm long on a 2,692mm wheelbase, 190mm shorter than the Subaru Solterra at 4,690mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Subaru Solterra generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 500L in the BMW iX1 and 452L in the Subaru Solterra, giving the BMW iX1 a 48L 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 iX1) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Solterra). Both match on warranty length.
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 Subaru Solterra if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Subaru Solterra takes 5 of 9 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the BMW iX1 has a clear edge. 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 Subaru Solterra?
The Subaru Solterra is the cheapest at $61,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the BMW iX1 by $15,910.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Subaru Solterra has the most range at 517km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The BMW iX1 accepts the highest DC charging at up to 200kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — BMW iX1 and Subaru Solterra 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 BMW iX1 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Subaru Solterra makes the most power at 252kW. The BMW iX1 is quickest to 100km/h in 6.1s.
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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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