DecodedCarsBMW X1 vs Lexus NX
2026 BMW X1 vs 2026 Lexus NX — two small SUVs compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
The Lexus NX is more fuel-efficient: 40 vs 28 MPG combined in its best version.
That works out to about $900 a year less in fuel for the Lexus NX (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
The Lexus NX is the bigger car, about 6 inches longer.
Across all model years since 2005, the Lexus NX has had fewer recall campaigns (18 vs 27).
The two cars
The 2026 BMW X1 is a small SUV offered with a 2.0L 4-cyl turbo engine and all-wheel drive. It measures about 177 inches long and 73 inches wide on a 106-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,827 lb (M35i Xdrive 4dr SUV).
The 2026 Lexus NX is a small SUV offered with 2 engines (2.5L 4-cyl and 2.4L 4-cyl turbo), including a hybrid version and front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. It measures about 184 inches long and 74 inches wide on a 106-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,880 lb (350 4dr SUV).
Buying used? The 2022 X1 and the 2021 NX have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2016 X1 and the 2024 NX.
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the BMW X1 if…
- You want more power (up to 312 vs 275 hp)
- You want something easier to park (6 in shorter)
Choose the Lexus NX if…
- You want lower fuel bills (40 vs 28 MPG)
- You want more room (6 in longer)
- You want a hybrid or electric option
- You want more standard driver-assist tech
- You put reliability history first (18 vs 27 recalls since 2005)
Pros & cons of each
2026 BMW X1
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
2026 Lexus NX
- Excellent fuel economyUp to 40 MPG combined — 32% better than the average 2026 small SUV (30.2 MPG).
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
- AWD / 4WD available
- Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
Full 2026 BMW X1 specs →Full 2026 Lexus NX specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →