BMW IX1 vs Lexus UX300E

What's the difference?

The world is full of shock brand announcements.

Remember the time Coke suddenly changed its cola recipe? Or when Apple decided to take on Nokia with iPhone? Nobody saw those coming.

We all know how the latter turned out and even the former eventually became a marketing masterstroke.

Now here's another super-surprise – a German electric luxury SUV that’s actually comparatively inexpensive. And not stingily equipped. Yep, we’re talking about the iX1.

Based on the really rather impressive third-generation X1, it decisively undercuts similarly-specified rivals from Mercedes-Benz (EQA, EQB) and Genesis (GV60).

But is the Bavarian EV SUV worth paying that little bit extra for against (only very slightly) cheaper alternatives like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Tesla Model Y, Polestar 2 and Volvo XC40 Recharge?

Let’s see.

Lexus has released a revamped version of its smallest electric SUV, the UX300e and I’ve been driving the Sports Luxury grade this week with my little family of three.

This model sees a few key upgrades to its battery performance, driving range and technology.

These improvements should see it continue to be a solid competitor for its rivals, the BMW iX1 XDrive 30 M Sport, Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 and Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric.