BMW X1 vs Lexus NX

The BMW X1 starts from $61,800 before on-road costs, while the Lexus NX opens at $59,900. That makes the Lexus NX the more affordable entry point by $1,900.

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 $65,890 respectively.

Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.

Both the BMW X1 and Lexus NX hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the BMW X1 and 91% for the Lexus NX.

Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Lexus NX packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 4 in the BMW X1.

Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the BMW X1 and 8 in the Lexus NX.

The BMW X1 features a 10.7-inch touchscreen, while the Lexus NX gets a 14-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.

The BMW X1 stands out with Apple CarPlay, head-up display, heated front seats and Harman Kardon audio that you will not find on the Lexus NX. The Lexus NX counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.

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 Lexus NX responds with a Petrol making 152kW and 243Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9 seconds.

The Lexus NX has the clear power advantage at 152kW vs 115kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW X1 is 1.9s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.

The BMW X1 measures 4,500mm long on a 2,692mm wheelbase, 160mm shorter than the Lexus NX at 4,660mm (2,690mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW X1 generally means more rear legroom.

Boot space is 410L in the BMW X1 and 520L in the Lexus NX, giving the Lexus NX a 110L advantage.

For towing, the Lexus NX leads with a 1,650kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 150kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.

Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,853/year for the BMW X1 and $1,739/year for the Lexus NX. That is a $114 annual difference in favour of the Lexus NX.

Estimated annual total: $1,853 (BMW X1) vs $1,739 (Lexus NX). The Lexus NX saves you roughly $114 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 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus NX). The BMW X1 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: —4yr (Lexus NX).