Lexus ES vs BMW i3
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans 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 ES starts from $73,900 before on-road costs, while the BMW i3 opens at $109,900. That makes the Lexus ES the more affordable entry point by $36,000.
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 $81,290 and $120,890 respectively.
The BMW i3 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Lexus ES, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
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
The Lexus ES features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the BMW i3 gets a 12.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus ES stands out with Apple CarPlay, panoramic roof and ambient lighting that you will not find on the BMW i3. The BMW i3 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Harman Kardon audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Lexus ES uses a Hybrid producing 160kW and 221Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.9 seconds.
The BMW i3 responds with a Electric making 250kW and 430Nm, paired to a auto driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds.
The BMW i3 has the clear power advantage at 250kW vs 160kW. In the real-world sprint, the BMW i3 is 1.0s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Lexus ES measures 4,975mm long on a 2,870mm wheelbase, 266mm longer than the BMW i3 at 4,709mm (2,851mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Lexus ES generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 473L in the Lexus ES and 260L in the BMW i3, giving the Lexus ES a 213L advantage.
For towing, the Lexus ES leads with a 1,000kg braked capacity vs 750kg. That 250kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.4m 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 11.4m 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: 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus ES) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW i3). The BMW i3 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: 4yr (Lexus ES)—.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus ES if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW i3 if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BMW i3 takes 4 of 7 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Lexus ES has a clear edge. The BMW i3 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Lexus ES and BMW i3?
The Lexus ES is the cheapest at $73,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the BMW i3 by $36,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Lexus ES uses the least fuel at 5.3L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Lexus ES all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Lexus ES has the largest boot at 473L.
Which can tow the most?
The Lexus ES has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The BMW i3 has the longest warranty at 5 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The BMW i3 makes the most power at 250kW. The BMW i3 is quickest to 100km/h in 7.9s.
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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