The BMW X1 earned the title of Australia's top small luxury SUV in the 2026 CarExpert Choice Awards, securing this honor for the second year running.

It outperformed the Cupra Formentor and Volvo XC40 in the final round.

Beyond this achievement, the electric iX1 model also secured the best small electric SUV award for another consecutive year.

What makes the X1 so appealing? It delivers classic BMW traits such as sharp handling, current technology, and a high-quality cabin in a compact and reasonably priced form.

You won't feel like you're compromising by choosing this over a bigger, pricier BMW, and newcomers to the marque will value its refined character.

Updates for 2026 include mild-hybrid systems on base models and the addition of a plug-in hybrid xDrive25e option. The range now spans from an efficient three-cylinder engine to the powerful M35i with its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder.

In our assessment of the base sDrive18i upon its release, we noted that Bavaria's premium small SUV has evolved from a class underperformer to a frontrunner, combining technology, usability, and driving skill even in the most affordable version.

That perspective remains unchanged.

2026 CarExpert Choice - Best Luxury Small SUV

Winner - BMW X1
Finalist - Cupra Formentor
Finalist - Volvo XC40

To view the complete list of CarExpert Choice winners, visit the awards page.

MORE: Discover the BMW X1 range