Denza D9 vs BMW iX1
Two electric cars 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 Denza D9 starts from $85,990 before on-road costs, while the BMW iX1 opens at $78,900. That makes the BMW iX1 the more affordable entry point by $7,090.
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 $94,589 and $86,790 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
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Denza D9 stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the BMW iX1. The BMW iX1 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, power tailgate and Harman Kardon audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Denza D9 uses a Electric producing 230kW, sent through its transmission to a FWD layout.
The BMW iX1 responds with a Electric making 150kW and 247Nm, paired to a auto driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.1 seconds.
The Denza D9 has the clear power advantage at 230kW vs 150kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 103.3kWh (Denza D9) vs 64.7kWh (BMW iX1), giving WLTP ranges of 520km and 578km.
Space & Comfort
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.6m diameter
Large
Based on 12.6m 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: 6 years / 150,000km (Denza D9) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW iX1). The Denza D9 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Denza D9 if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer Denza's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW iX1 if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Denza D9 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. The Denza D9 adds peace of mind with a longer 6-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
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