Best Small Luxury SUVs: 2023 Lexus Offers More Value Than BMW X1
The subcompact SUV market is stacked with competition. Two of the best small SUVs in the genre are the 2023 Lexus NX 350h and the latest model BMW X1. Both are excellent options and offer truly luxurious features inside and out. However, the latest Lexus NX 350h provides better value than the BMW SUV. This added value is the case for several reasons, with fuel economy and the interior being two of the biggest.
They’re both among the best small SUVs for performance
The 2023 Lexus NX 350h and the BMW X1 are among the best small SUVs in the subcompact luxury SUV class. Additionally, they are neck and neck regarding performance. According to Edmunds, the Lexus SUV has a 2.5-liter hybrid inline-four with a maximum output of 204 hp. It’s all-wheel drive and uses a continuously variable transmission. People have noted the vehicle for its handling ability and smooth ride thanks to the well-crafted suspension.
The 2023 BMW X1 is marginally more powerful than the hybrid Lexus. It has a 241 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It’s all-wheel drive and delivers power with a seven-speed automatic transmission. The BMW X1 is also faster than the 2023 Lexus NX 350h as it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a reported 6.2 seconds. However, it takes the Lexus about 7.2 seconds. Though not as fast, the Lexus arguably provides the smoother ride of the two small SUVs.
The Lexus NX 350h is more efficient
It practically goes without saying that the 2023 Lexus NX 350h is more fuel efficient than its non-hybrid BMW counterpart. However, this is where the vehicle offers more value than the X1 because they are both similarly priced entry-level SUVs. To be fair, they are two of the best small SUVs in their class for fuel economy, but the Lexus easily comes out on top.
The 2023 Lexus NX 350h gets a reported 41 miles per gallon in the city and 37 on the highway. For comparison, the BMW X1 gets an impressive 25 miles per gallon in the city and 34 on the highway. There are more fuel-efficient hybrids on the market, but for people who want to save at the pump, the Lexus hybrid SUV might be difficult to say no to. However, it should be noted that BMW has a hybrid version of the X1, but it’s not sold in many parts of the world.
The 2023 Lexus NX 350h has a better interior
The 2023 Lexus SUV also offers more value because it has a better interior. For the most part, the new Lexus is both driver-focused and comfortable for all passengers. Not only is it one of the most spacious SUVs in its class, but it has the classically luxurious look people expect from Lexus. This is true despite it being an entry-level luxury SUV. On the other hand, the BMW X1 has a modern interior, but it’s not something to write home about.
Regarding interior technology, the Lexus hybrid SUV has a standard 9.8-inch touchscreen display, and advanced trims have a 14-inch option. The BMW SUV also has an impressive use of interior technology, but it seems much more plain than the Lexus offering. In terms of pricing, the 2023 Lexus starts at $41,955, while the BMW is marginally cheaper at $39,100.
