KGM Rexton vs BMW X1
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 KGM Rexton starts from $50,000 before on-road costs, while the BMW X1 opens at $61,800. That makes the KGM Rexton the more affordable entry point by $11,800.
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 $55,000 and $67,980 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BMW X1 by roughly $3,135 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the KGM Rexton and BMW X1 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The KGM Rexton 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 KGM Rexton and 6 in the BMW X1.
Feature Showdown
The KGM Rexton features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the BMW X1 gets a 10.7-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The KGM Rexton stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and ambient lighting that you will not find on the BMW X1. The BMW X1 counters with Apple CarPlay, head-up display, heated front seats and Harman Kardon audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The KGM Rexton uses a Turbo DDi Diesel producing 149kW and 441Nm of torque, sent through a 8-speed automatic to a 4WD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 11.5 seconds.
The BMW X1 responds with a Petrol making 115kW and 230Nm, paired to a auto driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.1 seconds.
The KGM Rexton has the clear power advantage at 149kW vs 115kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW X1 is 4.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The KGM Rexton measures 4,850mm long on a 2,865mm wheelbase, 350mm longer than the BMW X1 at 4,500mm (2,692mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the KGM Rexton generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 236L in the KGM Rexton and 410L in the BMW X1, giving the BMW X1 a 174L advantage. The KGM Rexton seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the KGM Rexton leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 2,000kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.3m to 11.6m
Based on 11.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
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 $2,480/year for the KGM Rexton and $1,853/year for the BMW X1. That is a $627 annual difference in favour of the BMW X1.
Estimated annual total: $2,480 (KGM Rexton) vs $1,853 (BMW X1). The BMW X1 saves you roughly $627 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (KGM Rexton) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW X1). The KGM Rexton has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the KGM Rexton if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer KGM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW X1 if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The KGM Rexton takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The BMW X1 will save you roughly $627 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the BMW X1 has a clear edge. The KGM Rexton 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, KGM Rexton and BMW X1?
The KGM Rexton is the cheapest at $50,000 before on-road costs. That undercuts the BMW X1 by $11,800.
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 — KGM Rexton and BMW X1 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 KGM Rexton has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The KGM Rexton has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The KGM Rexton makes the most power at 149kW. The BMW X1 is quickest to 100km/h in 7.1s.
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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