Skoda Kodiaq 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 Skoda Kodiaq starts from $54,990 before on-road costs, while the BMW X1 opens at $61,800. That makes the Skoda Kodiaq the more affordable entry point by $6,810.
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 $60,489 and $67,980 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Skoda Kodiaq and BMW X1 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 89% for the Skoda Kodiaq and 86% for the BMW X1.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Skoda Kodiaq 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 7 in the Skoda Kodiaq and 6 in the BMW X1.
Feature Showdown
The Skoda Kodiaq features a 13-inch touchscreen, while the BMW X1 gets a 10.7-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Skoda Kodiaq stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that you will not find on the BMW X1. The BMW X1 counters with Apple CarPlay, head-up display and Harman Kardon audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Skoda Kodiaq uses a Petrol producing 110kW and 250Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.1 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 BMW X1 has the clear power advantage at 115kW vs 110kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW X1 is 2.0s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Skoda Kodiaq measures 4,758mm long on a 2,791mm wheelbase, 258mm longer than the BMW X1 at 4,500mm (2,692mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Skoda Kodiaq generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 270L in the Skoda Kodiaq and 410L in the BMW X1, giving the BMW X1 a 140L advantage. The Skoda Kodiaq seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Skoda Kodiaq leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 500kg 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 $1,824/year for the Skoda Kodiaq and $1,853/year for the BMW X1. That is a $29 annual difference in favour of the Skoda Kodiaq.
Estimated annual total: $1,824 (Skoda Kodiaq) vs $1,853 (BMW X1). The Skoda Kodiaq saves you roughly $29 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (Skoda Kodiaq) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW X1). The Skoda Kodiaq has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Skoda Kodiaq if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Skoda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW X1 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Skoda Kodiaq takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Skoda Kodiaq will save you roughly $29 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the BMW X1 has a clear edge. The Skoda Kodiaq 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, Skoda Kodiaq and BMW X1?
The Skoda Kodiaq is the cheapest at $54,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the BMW X1 by $6,810.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Skoda Kodiaq uses the least fuel at 6.4L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Skoda Kodiaq 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 Skoda Kodiaq has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Skoda Kodiaq has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The BMW X1 makes the most power at 115kW. 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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