BMW X1 vs GWM Tank 500
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
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 X1 starts from $61,800 before on-road costs, while the GWM Tank 500 opens at $59,990. That makes the GWM Tank 500 the more affordable entry point by $1,810.
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 $67,980 and $65,989 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BMW X1 by roughly $3,845 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the BMW X1 and GWM Tank 500 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the BMW X1 and 88% for the GWM Tank 500.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The GWM Tank 500 packs more ADAS features with 5 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 4 in the BMW X1.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW X1 stands out with head-up display, heated front seats, power tailgate and Harman Kardon audio that you will not find on the GWM Tank 500. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BMW X1 uses a Petrol producing 115kW and 230Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.1 seconds.
The GWM Tank 500 responds with a Hybrid making 175kW and 648Nm, paired to a 9-speed auto driving the rear wheels.
The GWM Tank 500 has the clear power advantage at 175kW vs 115kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The BMW X1 measures 4,500mm long on a 2,692mm wheelbase, 578mm shorter than the GWM Tank 500 at 5,078mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GWM Tank 500 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 410L in the BMW X1 and 98L in the GWM Tank 500, giving the BMW X1 a 312L advantage. The GWM Tank 500 seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the GWM Tank 500 leads with a 2,500kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 1,000kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.3m diameter
Average
Based on 11.3m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,853/year for the BMW X1 and $2,622/year for the GWM Tank 500. That is a $769 annual difference in favour of the BMW X1.
Estimated annual total: $1,853 (BMW X1) vs $2,622 (GWM Tank 500). The BMW X1 saves you roughly $769 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (BMW X1) vs 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Tank 500). The GWM Tank 500 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW X1 if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the GWM Tank 500 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM Tank 500 takes 4 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The BMW X1 will save you roughly $769 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the BMW X1 has a clear edge. The GWM Tank 500 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. 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
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
