BMW X1 vs Subaru Uncharted
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 Subaru Uncharted opens at $59,990. That makes the Subaru Uncharted 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.
The Subaru Uncharted qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The BMW X1, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the BMW X1 and Subaru Uncharted hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Subaru Uncharted packs more ADAS features with 8 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the BMW X1.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the BMW X1 and 8 in the Subaru Uncharted. The Subaru Uncharted adds a 360-degree camera that the BMW X1 misses.
Feature Showdown
The BMW X1 features a 10.7-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.3-inch digital dash, while the Subaru Uncharted gets a 14-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BMW X1 stands out with Apple CarPlay, head-up display and Harman Kardon audio that you will not find on the Subaru Uncharted. The Subaru Uncharted counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, V2L and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the BMW X1 gets sensatec synthetic leather upholstery while the Subaru Uncharted offers synthetic leather.
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 Subaru Uncharted responds with a Dual Electric Motor making 252kW, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 5 seconds.
The Subaru Uncharted has the clear power advantage at 252kW vs 115kW. In the real-world sprint, the Subaru Uncharted is 2.1s quicker. 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, 35mm shorter than the Subaru Uncharted at 4,535mm (2,750mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Subaru Uncharted generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 410L in the BMW X1 and 403L in the Subaru Uncharted, giving the BMW X1 a 7L advantage.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m to 11.3m
Based on 11.3m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.0m 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 X1) vs 5 years (Subaru Uncharted). Both match on warranty length. Capped-price servicing: —5yr (Subaru Uncharted).
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BMW X1 if: You need more boot space, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru Uncharted if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Subaru Uncharted takes 4 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, BMW X1 and Subaru Uncharted?
The Subaru Uncharted is the cheapest at $59,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the BMW X1 by $1,810.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The BMW X1 uses the least fuel at 6.5L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — BMW X1 and Subaru Uncharted all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The BMW X1 has the largest boot at 410L.
Which can tow the most?
The BMW X1 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Subaru Uncharted makes the most power at 252kW. The Subaru Uncharted is quickest to 100km/h in 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
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
