Lexus NX 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 Lexus NX starts from $59,900 before on-road costs, while the BMW X1 opens at $61,800. 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 $65,890 and $67,980 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Lexus NX and BMW X1 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 91% for the Lexus NX and 86% for the BMW X1.
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 8 in the Lexus NX and 6 in the BMW X1.
Feature Showdown
The Lexus NX features a 14-inch touchscreen, while the BMW X1 gets a 10.7-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus NX stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging 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 Lexus NX uses a Petrol producing 152kW and 243Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9 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 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.
Space & Comfort
The Lexus NX measures 4,660mm long on a 2,690mm wheelbase, 160mm longer than the BMW X1 at 4,500mm (2,692mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW X1 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 520L in the Lexus NX and 410L in the BMW X1, 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.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.3m to 11.4m
Based on 11.4m 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 $1,739/year for the Lexus NX and $1,853/year for the BMW X1. That is a $114 annual difference in favour of the Lexus NX.
Estimated annual total: $1,739 (Lexus NX) vs $1,853 (BMW X1). 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: 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus NX) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW X1). The BMW X1 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: 4yr (Lexus NX)—.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus NX if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, need stronger towing, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW X1 if: You value a longer warranty, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Lexus NX takes 5 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Lexus NX will save you roughly $114 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Lexus NX has a clear edge. The BMW X1 adds peace of mind with a longer 5-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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