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BMW has shaped luxury standards for over 110 years. Competitors continue to trail in key areas of refinement and performance.

This claim holds weight even as most premium makers highlight their own builds, innovations and upscale features. Time spent with BMW SUVs reveals a distinct approach to what luxury means in practice.

That focus helped BMW secure five wins at the 2026 CarExpert Choice Awards for models including the X1, iX1, X3 and X5. Strong buyer interest persists despite competition from long-time rivals and new electric-focused entrants.

Deeper than surfaces like leather trim, large displays or mood lighting lies a harder element to achieve: genuine substance.

Well before luxury turned into a common sales pitch, BMW refined steering response, vehicle balance and overall driver connection.

The slogan 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' grew from core engineering values rather than marketing needs. Those values still guide every model, no matter the power source.

What stands out is BMW's success in preserving that identity while meeting demands for greater variety in powertrains.

Buyers can choose petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid or full electric options. The brand delivers them while keeping the essential character intact, a rare achievement in this class.

Consider the X5.

Named Best Large Luxury SUV for 2026 by CarExpert, it remains a top all-rounder. It keeps the useful split tailgate, offers turbo six-cylinder power, plug-in hybrids and even V8 M60i and M Competition versions.

Across every powertrain choice, the X5 provides consistent comfort, polish and assurance that mark BMW's larger SUVs.

The stronger narrative appears in smaller models.

Compact and mid-size SUVs now represent nearly half of new vehicle sales in Australia. Families and daily drivers seek premium qualities even at accessible prices.

Here the X1 and X3 stand as vital offerings for the brand.

The X1 shows BMW's approach clearly. The sporty X1 M35i xDrive, plug-in hybrid xDrive25e and electric iX1 xDrive30 target different buyers yet share a clear family feel.

The M35i delivers real performance with M styling, bigger wheels, four exhaust tips and rare driver involvement for its size.

The xDrive25e plug-in hybrid hits a practical balance for many local buyers, allowing electric commuting with petrol backup for longer trips.

Even the base X1 sDrive20i avoids any entry-level feel through its upscale cabin and strong performance, with excellent body control and feedback.

The iX1 xDrive30 ranks among BMW's most compelling electric models. Its clean design, polished execution and clear BMW identity build on lessons from the earlier i3 and i8.

Within the X1 range the cabin feels truly upscale.

The curved screen, raised console and careful material choices create a modern space without excess complexity. Ambient lighting ranks among the segment's best, and seating positions set high marks for comfort.

Crucially, systems operate smoothly. Operating System 9 stays user-friendly, controls remain well placed and every element feels deliberate.

The X3 extends the same ideas with added room, quietness and poise.

The current X3 ranks among BMW's most compelling SUV shapes. Sharper lines, balanced proportions and stronger road presence mark the update.

Models like the X3 20 xDrive and plug-in 30e xDrive keep the core traits: hushed, comfortable and composed without losing involvement.

Steering provides clear feedback, brakes feel progressive and the chassis stays composed. Electric versions retain the driver connection that sets BMW apart.

Looking ahead, the Neue Klasse iX3 already signals major progress.

Its claimed range above 800km WLTP could shift views on electric SUVs. Neue Klasse advances in software, batteries, charging speed and digital systems lay groundwork for future models.

BMW aims to protect the driving qualities built over generations even as electrification advances. This remains a key test for the industry.

Many makers can deliver luxury or technology or strong electric vehicles. Few combine them while preserving real driver connection.

After more than 110 years BMW continues to lead rather than follow.