BMW iX1 vs Subaru Trailseeker
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 Subaru Trailseeker opens at $67,990. That makes the Subaru Trailseeker the more affordable entry point by $10,910.
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 $74,789 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 Trailseeker hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
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 Trailseeker.
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 8 in the Subaru Trailseeker.
Feature Showdown
The BMW iX1 features a 10.7-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.3-inch digital dash, while the Subaru Trailseeker gets a 14-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW iX1 stands out with power tailgate and Harman Kardon audio that you will not find on the Subaru Trailseeker. The Subaru Trailseeker counters with wireless charging, heated front seats and ambient lighting. 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 Trailseeker offers synthetic 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 Subaru Trailseeker responds with a Dual Electric Motor making 280kW and 536Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 4.5 seconds.
The Subaru Trailseeker has the clear power advantage at 280kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the Subaru Trailseeker is 1.6s 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 Trailseeker), giving WLTP ranges of 578km and 533km. DC fast charging peaks at 200kW (BMW iX1) vs 150kW (Subaru Trailseeker).
Space & Comfort
The BMW iX1 measures 4,500mm long on a 2,692mm wheelbase, 345mm shorter than the Subaru Trailseeker at 4,845mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Subaru Trailseeker generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 500L in the BMW iX1 and 609L in the Subaru Trailseeker, giving the Subaru Trailseeker a 109L 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 Trailseeker). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW iX1 if: You or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru Trailseeker if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Subaru Trailseeker takes 6 of 8 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Subaru Trailseeker 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 Trailseeker?
The Subaru Trailseeker is the cheapest at $67,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the BMW iX1 by $10,910.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Subaru Trailseeker has the most range at 533km (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 Trailseeker all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Subaru Trailseeker has the largest boot at 609L.
Which can tow the most?
The BMW iX1 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Subaru Trailseeker makes the most power at 280kW. The Subaru Trailseeker is quickest to 100km/h in 4.5s.
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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