The luxury compact SUV market is heating up, and two standout contenders are the 2025 Lexus UX and the BMW X1. These vehicles offer a perfect blend of style, performance, and technology for drivers seeking a premium experience in a smaller package. In this article, we provide a detailed car comparison by features of these two popular models to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Aesthetics
Both the Lexus UX and BMW X1 stand out with striking designs. The Lexus UX features the brand’s signature spindle grille, giving it a bold, modern look. Its sleek, aerodynamic profile measures 177 inches in length with a 103.9-inch wheelbase. The BMW X1, slightly larger at 177.2 inches long with a 106-inch wheelbase, showcases the iconic kidney grille and a more muscular stance.
Inside, the Lexus UX offers a driver-focused cockpit with high-quality materials and a minimalist design. In contrast, the BMW X1 offers a more spacious, airy interior with a premium feel. Both models provide comfortable seating, but the X1 has an advantage in cargo space with 25.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats compared to the UX’s 17.2 cubic feet.
Performance and Powertrain
The 2025 Lexus UX comes exclusively as a hybrid, featuring a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors. This powertrain delivers a combined 196 horsepower, focusing on efficiency and smooth operation. The BMW X1 offers two gasoline engine options: the xDrive28i with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque and the more powerful M35i variant boasting 312 horsepower.
In terms of fuel economy, the Lexus UX shines with an impressive 45 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. The BMW X1 xDrive28i, while not as frugal, still manages a respectable 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. If you prioritize efficiency, the Lexus UX is the clear winner, but if you’re after more spirited performance, the BMW X1 might be more your speed.
Technology and Infotainment
Both vehicles are equipped with advanced infotainment systems. The Lexus UX features an 8-inch touch screen as standard, with an optional 12.3-inch display. The BMW X1 raises the bar with a standard 10.7-inch touch screen running the latest iDrive 9 system. Both offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, ensuring seamless connectivity with your smartphone.
Voice control capabilities, Wi-Fi hot spots, and premium audio systems are available in both models. However, the BMW’s larger standard screen and more intuitive interface gives it a slight edge in the tech department.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for both Lexus and BMW. The 2023 models of both the UX and X1 received the coveted Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick+ award, and we expect the 2025 Lexus UX to maintain this high standard. Both vehicles come packed with advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warnings, and automatic emergency braking.
The Lexus UX offers additional features, such as Road Sign Assist and Lane Tracing Assist, while the BMW X1 counters with its driving assistant package, which includes semi-autonomous driving capabilities.
Comfort and Convenience
In terms of comfort, both the Lexus UX and BMW X1 excel. The UX offers a whisper-quiet cabin thanks to excellent noise insulation, while the X1 provides a bit more room for passengers to stretch out. Both vehicles feature dual-zone climate control, available heated and ventilated seats, and hands-free liftgates for easy access to the cargo area.
The Lexus UX’s hybrid powertrain contributes to a smoother, more refined ride, especially in urban environments. The BMW X1, with its more powerful engines, feels sportier, but it comes at the expense of some ride comfort.
Ownership Costs
With an MSRP of $37,515, the 2025 Lexus UX starts at a lower price point than the BMW X1. The xDrive28i starts at $41,350, while the M35i has a starting MSRP of $50,800. However, when similarly equipped, the price difference narrows.
Regarding long-term costs, the Lexus UX has a few advantages:
- Better fuel economy, leading to lower fuel costs
- Lower maintenance expenses
- Higher resale value (the Lexus UX is estimated to retain 58.35% to 60.33% of its value after five years)
The BMW X1 might have slightly higher insurance costs due to its performance-oriented nature and potentially higher repair costs.
Reliability and Warranty
Lexus has built a reputation for exceptional reliability, often ranking at or near the top in J.D. Power dependability studies. BMW has made strides in this area but still tends to rank slightly lower than Lexus in long-term reliability ratings.
Both manufacturers offer competitive packages of warranty coverage:
- Lexus: four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty, six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty
- BMW: four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty, four-year/50,000-mile powertrain warranty
The Lexus UX’s longer powertrain warranty provides additional peace of mind for buyers concerned about long-term ownership costs.
Environmental Impact
With increasing focus on environmental issues, the Lexus UX takes the lead. As a hybrid-only model, it offers significantly lower emissions and better fuel efficiency compared to the gasoline-powered BMW X1. The UX’s impressive 45 mpg city/41 mpg highway rating means less fuel consumption and a smaller carbon footprint.
Lexus has also made strides in using eco-friendly materials in the UX’s construction, further enhancing its green credentials. While BMW has made commitments to sustainability, the X1 currently lacks a hybrid option in its lineup.
Make the Right Choice for Your Luxury Compact SUV
The Lexus UX stands out with its exceptional fuel economy, smooth hybrid powertrain, and lower long-term ownership costs. The BMW X1 offers more powerful engine options, slightly more interior space, and a more engaging driving experience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences and priorities. If you’re leaning toward the refined efficiency and proven reliability of the Lexus UX, why not experience it for yourself? Visit Longo Lexus, our dealership in El Monte, for a test-drive of the Lexus UX.
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